Working in food delivery or as a taxi driver is not only a popular way to earn extra income but also a real option for stable earnings in Poland. Both sectors are actively growing, offer flexible schedules, and allow you to start work quickly. However, there are significant differences between them in terms of requirements, expenses, income level, and even lifestyle. Let’s analyze whether working as a courier or a taxi driver suits you best if you are looking for reliable earnings or convenient side work.
Differences Between a Courier and a Taxi Driver
The main difference lies in the complexity of starting and the required documentation. If you are looking for a quick solution, working in delivery or as a taxi driver has completely different entry levels.
You can start working as a courier literally within a single day. In most cases, it is enough to have a passport, a basic understanding of the city, and the desire to earn. You can work on foot, by bicycle, scooter, or car. The choice of transport is up to you. No Polish driver’s license, license, or medical certificates are required. Through Promin Partner, registration and activation take only a few hours. This makes courier positions or driver roles a choice where the courier side wins in terms of speed of entry.
A taxi driver requires much more time for registration. You will need a Polish driver’s license, medical and psychological certificates, a criminal record from Poland and your country of origin (with a sworn translation into Polish no older than 30 days), a personal photo, and a licensed vehicle. Therefore, if you are wondering which is easier to start—courier or driver—the answer is definitely courier.
Income of Drivers and Couriers
When it comes to earnings, it is important to consider not only raw numbers but also factors affecting income: city, day of the week, weather conditions, and demand.
Taxi drivers in large cities (e.g., Warsaw or Kraków) can earn from 400 zlotys per shift, especially at night and on weekends. Increased rates, long trips, and lower competition make the earnings of couriers and taxi drivers uneven: drivers often earn more per shift overall.
Couriers earn on average from 15 to 45 zlotys per hour. Income depends on the time of day, the chosen platform, number of deliveries, and even weather conditions. Rain and snow are peak times when active couriers can earn significantly more. Therefore, when comparing where income is higher—taxi or delivery—there is no universal answer; it all depends on strategy.
Expenses and Costs of Taxi Drivers and Couriers
An important aspect often overlooked by beginners is the real costs. Especially if you do not ask yourself: which is more profitable, delivery or passengers, and focus only on the numbers in advertising banners.
Taxi drivers face significant expenses. The main costs include:
- Fuel – up to 2,500 zlotys per month;
- Vehicle depreciation and maintenance;
- Car rental – up to 2,800 zlotys;
- Insurance and licenses;
- Platform commissions – 30.75% of earnings;
- Taxes and ZUS if registered officially.
As for couriers, they usually spend much less:
- Bicycle couriers have almost no expenses;
- Scooter users spend 20–50 zlotys per month on charging;
- Car or scooter delivery drivers spend less on fuel and vehicle rental than taxi drivers.
So, where are the expenses lower—taxi or delivery? The answer is obvious: delivery is cheaper to maintain, especially if the vehicle is your own.
Pros and Cons of Working in Taxi and Delivery
When you ask yourself: should I choose food delivery or taxi driving?, it is important to assess your strengths, habits, and goals. Both professions have their advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look at this question.
Advantages of courier work:
- Easy start with minimal documentation;
- Ability to work without knowing Polish;
- Physical activity – a plus for health;
- No need for direct interaction with clients.
Disadvantages of courier work:
- Weather impact (working is harder in winter and rain);
- Strain on legs and back;
- Low rates during “dead” hours.
Advantages of taxi work:
- Higher income;
- Comfort – you sit in the car;
- Night shifts are especially profitable;
- Possibility of bonuses from platforms.
Disadvantages of taxi work:
- Requires more investment and paperwork;
- Interaction with different passengers, not always pleasant;
- Increased risks at night;
- Costs for the car and maintenance.
What to choose as a beginner?
Which is easier to start – courier or driver? If you have just arrived, haven’t completed all your documents, and don’t have a car – start with delivery. This is a logical step for a quick entry into the labor market. Through a partner like Promin Partner, you can start the same day.
Taxi is a more profitable but complex path. You will need to obtain medical certificates, invest in a car, and be ready to communicate with clients. For some, this is inconvenient or simply unprofitable at the start. Therefore, choosing between working as a courier or a driver depends on your current capabilities and long-term goals.
Who is courier work suitable for, and who is taxi work suitable for?
Courier work is suitable for:
- Students and beginners;
- People without a car;
- Those who prefer minimal communication and want to work alone;
- Those who want to start earning as quickly as possible.
Taxi work is suitable for:
- People who already have a Polish driver’s license;
- Those with driving experience;
- Those who want to work night shifts and earn more;
- Those who are comfortable talking to strangers.
If you are looking for the best solution for side work, focus on your situation. And if you want to start easily with support – register through Promin Partner. Choose your platform, whether Uber or Uber Eats, Bolt or Bolt Food, and start working as soon as tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions About Comparing Food Couriers and Taxi Drivers
Which is easier – courier or taxi driver?
Definitely courier. Quick registration, minimal requirements, you can start immediately.
Which is more profitable – courier or taxi driver?
Taxi brings more income but requires greater investment and time for registration. Courier work is stable and simpler.
Where is the income higher – delivery or taxi?
On average, taxi income is higher, especially during night shifts. But with the right approach and schedule, a courier can earn just as much.
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