To Tip or Not to Tip, That is the Question (flat fee, wedding)

[saph28]

What are your thoughts on tipping? My friends son delivers food to businesses. We were talking and he was telling me about the tips that people are giving him. The business does not charge a delivery fee like some places, so they do not even tip him either. What do you think?

[johnnyblazes]

No one deserves to be tipped for doing something they're already being paid to do. The more people tip when they shouldnt the more undeserving workers expect and often ask for tips

[Vacanegro]

In the US most people tip for food delivery - generally a flat fee say $2-$4. I would say it is a trend established by the Pizza delivery guys.

[spankys bbq]

There is nothing wrong with tipping someone in the service industry, delivery people included. You may not be obligated, but I've always felt it was the right thing to do. If the guy holds his hand out like a snotty bellman, that's different.

[momtothree]

If his sole job is to deliver food, it's a bit tricky. But I do tend to tip at least $2 per delivery unless it's rainy/miserable outside and will up the tip.

[InSouthPark]

Define "delivering food to businesses".

Like delivering sandwiches to BofA? Or delivering chicken cutlets to a mexican restaurant? Delivering "supply food" to a business I certainly wouldn't expect any tip unless they are looking to get preferential delivery times. Delivering lunch to a corporate office? Then yes I would expect a tip. I know our company always adds a tip if there is not already a delivery fee built in (if it arrived on time).

[flotsamarama]

What I have a problem with is the expectation of a tip when a customer orders (and receives) food at the counter -- or picks up carry-out -- unless there was some extraordinary service.

[southbound_295]

I think that the usual criteria is that delivery people for pizza & Chinese drive their own car. They get a tip to offset expenses & wear & tear. A floral delivery in the company van is more optional unless it's a very complex order with a lot of setup, like a wedding or funeral.

[saph28]

yes, delivering sandwiches and breakfast. One guy told the kid to keep the change, all 22 cents.

[Sue at the Rock]

Originally Posted by saph28

yes, delivering sandwiches and breakfast. One guy told the kid to keep the change, all 22 cents.

Does he get paid minimum wage?

I always tip people who deliver food.