How to Make the Most Out of Walmart Spark Driver: A Guide for Newbies

If you’re considering joining the ranks of Walmart Spark drivers or are just starting your side hustle, there’s a lot to learn about making the most out of this opportunity. From navigating tricky app features to scoring high-paying offers, here’s what you need to know to succeed as a Walmart Spark driver.

1. Embrace the Gig: The Perks of Walmart Spark

Walmart Spark offers a flexible way to earn money, and sometimes, you can land lucrative deals. For instance, one driver received a $75 offer for a single delivery covering just 5.5 miles! These kinds of offers, though rare, highlight the potential of Walmart Spark as a side hustle.

2. Curbside vs. Shop and Deliver: Which Is Better?

As a Walmart Spark driver, you’ll encounter two main types of orders: curbside pickups and shop-and-deliver tasks. Curbside pickups are straightforward—just drive to the store, load up, and deliver. On the other hand, shop-and-deliver requires you to shop for the items in-store before making the delivery.

While some drivers prefer the simplicity of curbside pickups, others find the shopping aspect less appealing. However, the app’s layout and in-store guidance can make shopping orders manageable, even for beginners.

3. Avoiding Common Pitfalls

New drivers often face challenges, such as incorrect addresses and confusing app interfaces. If your GPS leads you to an unfamiliar or incorrect location, reach out to the customer or support team immediately. It’s essential to confirm you’re at the correct drop-off point to avoid wasting time and mileage.

Another tip is to keep an eye on your time. Being too early for a pickup can result in waiting around, which eats into your earnings. Instead, aim to arrive just in time, minimizing downtime and maximizing your productivity.

4. Maximizing Earnings: Dollar-to-Mile Ratio

To make the most of your shifts, focus on the dollar-to-mile ratio. Ideally, you want to earn at least $1.75 per mile, with $2 to $3 being optimal. This ensures that your time and mileage are well-compensated, especially when factoring in commuting miles between deliveries.

5. The Importance of Multi-Apping

Walmart Spark can be a great gig, but it’s wise not to rely on it alone. To maximize your earnings and reduce downtime, consider using multiple delivery apps. This strategy allows you to switch between platforms when Spark is slow, ensuring you’re always making the most of your time on the road.

6. Preparing for Your First Shift

Your first shift may feel overwhelming, but it gets easier with time. The more you use the app, the more familiar you’ll become with its interface. Take your time, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Remember, every driver was once a newbie!

Conclusion

Walmart Spark offers a flexible and potentially lucrative side hustle, but success requires strategy and knowledge. By understanding the app, avoiding common mistakes, and maximizing your dollar-to-mile ratio, you can turn your Walmart Spark driving gig into a rewarding experience. So, buckle up, and get ready to make the most of your first shift!