11 Hacks to Score the Best Deals on Food Delivery Apps

4. Choose Pickup or Curbside to Cut Fees

Pickup is often the fastest way to avoid delivery fees. If a restaurant is within a short drive, selecting pickup usually removes the delivery fee and sometimes unlocks pickup-only specials. Some apps even reduce or waive service fees for pickup orders. Curbside is nearly as convenient when a quick stop is easier than waiting for a driver. Use pickup when you have errands nearby or when ordering from a partner restaurant that offers quick turnaround. Another angle: grocery stores and big chains sometimes charge less for pickup than for delivery, and they may include promo codes specific to in-store pickup. For large family orders, pickup can also let you claim time-limited restaurant deals that apps limit to walk-in customers. When using pickup, set the app notes clearly—this prevents confusion and speeds the handoff. If you can’t pick up, consider asking a neighbor or friend who’s already going out; splitting the trip and sharing savings can be a practical community hack.