• Time Management for Rideshare App Drivers

    WRITTEN BY HOPSKIPDRIVE
    Rideshare driver making money doing part time work in his free time

    Driving for gig apps offers flexibility and the potential to earn income based on how much you work. One benefit of driving with HopSkipDrive is the flexibility of choosing when you work while being able to set your schedule up to seven days in advance. This article provides tips for planning your schedule, optimizing your routes, and making the best of your driving time with HopSkipDrive. Whether you're already driving or you’re considering signing up as a CareDriver, these time management strategies are designed to help you use your time more efficiently.

    Understand peak hours

    Identify busy times
    While HopSkipDrive does have rides available throughout the day, the majority of rides that are available to claim on the app take place before and after school. Many school districts stagger the start and end times for students of different ages, allowing you to potentially help multiple students in your community each day. Monitoring ride availability during these peak times can help you maximize your impact and reduce down time.

    Utilize app filtering
    The HopSkipDrive CareDriver app allows you to use  numerous filters when browsing for available rides. By using this  feature in the app, you can optimize your routes by limiting the driving distance between rides.

    Plan your schedule

    Set clear goals
    It’s not uncommon for CareDrivers who drive with HopSkipDrive to work another job. Many CareDrivers chose HopSkipDrive as a driving gig because they want to earn extra income while making a difference in their community. Whether you claim one ride a day or many, every HopSkipDrive ride has the potential to make a real difference in the life of a student or rider. Keeping your driving goals and availability top of  mind will help you develop a schedule that works for you.

    Incorporate breaks
    Taking regular breaks is essential for maintaining mental and physical health, especially with driving gigs that require long periods of sitting and intense focus. Scheduling breaks — even just 15 or 20 minutes to stretch and rest — can prevent fatigue, help keep you alert on the road, and make your driving time more safe and productive.

    Optimize routes

    Use smart navigation tools
    HopSkipDrive in-app navigation does more than provide directions; it also offers real-time traffic updates and route optimization. Using these features can help you avoid traffic jams and road closures, saving time and fuel. Efficient route planning means you can complete rides on time, and possibly claim more rides within a specific timeframe.

    Prepare for delays
    Many of the rides available to claim through the HopSkipDrive CareDriver app are scheduled to get students to school on time in the mornings. As a CareDriver, being aware of construction or inclement weather that may affect your routes or travel time can help to ensure students can start their school day off in a positive and timely manner. Allowing buffer time for each ride is another step you can take to make sure you are always on time for pickups and drop-offs. 

    Stay organized

    Keep track of time-sensitive tasks
    As a CareDriver, it’s important to pay attention to and keep track of important deadlines, such as document expiration dates and vehicle maintenance schedules. Proactive management of these tasks can prevent disruptive last-minute rushes — and a paused CareDriver account.

    Properly maintain your vehicle
    Keeping your vehicle maintained and in proper working condition is crucial for staying safe on the road. HopSkipDrive’s Daily Safety Check helps you stay aware of your vehicle's condition so that you can promptly resolve any potential issues. Additionally, ensuring your vehicle is ready the night before a scheduled ride — including cleanliness, fuel levels, and necessary supplies — can help you start your day on time and in a stress-free manner. Minimizing preparation time in the morning can help you maximize your available driving time.

    Expand your opportunities

    Primary CareDriver + Program*
    HopSkipDrive offers the Primary CareDriver + Program to CareDrivers in select markets. CareDrivers are invited to participate in this program, and participation is optional. Choosing to participate can increase your earning potential and give  you the opportunity to plan a more consistent schedule. CareDrivers who opt in to the Primary CareDriver + Program can claim exclusive Ride Series that include an additional weekly boost payment. The boost payment increases each week for the first three weeks when you remain the Primary CareDriver + for the same series. 

    Universal Referral Program**
    Another way to increase your earnings potential as a CareDriver is to utilize HopSkipDrive’s Universal Referral Program. When you refer your friends and family to become CareDrivers, you can earn additional money with very little time investment. 

    Effective time management as a CareDriver can enhance your efficiency while also improving your satisfaction and earnings. By focusing on scheduling, route optimization, staying organized, and leveraging technology through the CareDriver app, you can transform your driving gig into a more productive and enjoyable venture.

    *Primary CareDriver + Program: Terms and conditions apply.
    **Universal Referral Program: Terms and conditions apply.