The gig economy is on the rise, making gig apps a hot topic among millennials and Gen Z. These apps have made it easier for people to be their own boss and earn some extra cash. From driving for ride-sharing services to delivering food or groceries, there’s a gig app for almost every type of work.
The gig economy has revolutionized the way people work and earn, offering flexible schedules, quick payments, and a wide variety of job opportunities. And with the advent of handy clone app services, several startups have added more opportunities to it. Whether you’re looking to make some extra money on the side or build a full-time career in the gig economy, these apps are definitely worth checking out. But let’s first understand the gig concept.
What is gig work?
The gig economy has transformed the way people work and earn money. Gig work, also known as freelance work or on-demand work, is a type of employment where individuals work on a temporary or project-by-project basis. This is different from having a full-time job with a single employer.
At its core, the gig economy comprises three participants:
- The consumer,
- The gig worker,
- And the gig economy platforms that connect the two.
The consumer requests a specific service or goods to be delivered on gig apps, the gig worker provides the service or delivers the goods, and the gig economy platforms connect the consumer and the gig worker. But how does this gig economy work? How and who makes an order? Where does it happen? Who makes the payment? And how can you quickly have an app utilizing a service marketplace script to realize your business idea? Let’s learn all about the gig economy.
How the Gig Economy Works?
In the gig economy, workers are paid for each “gig” or task they complete rather than receiving a regular salary or wage.
Here’s how it typically works:
- Individuals sign up on gig apps or platforms, such as Uber, Lyft, Airbnb, or Upwork.
- They create a profile that highlights their skills, experience, and availability.
- They can then browse available gigs or tasks on the platform or app.
- Once they find a gig they’re interested in, they can accept it and complete the task according to the platform’s guidelines and timeline.
- Payment is typically made through the platform or app, and the worker receives a portion of the fee charged to the client or customer.
Recently, the gig economy has gained a greater pace due to the flexibility and freedom it provides to individuals. After all, we all dream of having the freedom to take an off from the workday whenever required. Such is a lean towards work flexibility that entrepreneurs look for billion-dollar worth On-Demand Service App Ideas and other gig app ideas to capitalize on.
So, what are the different types of gig apps out there in the market?
Top 13 Gig Apps that Truly Work
Get ready to discover the top gig apps that are changing the game for independent workers. From on-demand delivery services to freelance work platforms, we’ll take a closer look at each app’s unique features, pros and cons, and user reviews.
Uber
This ride-hailing is one of the best gig apps out there for riders. If you know how to drive and love being on wheels, Uber is there for you. This app allows gig workers to be on and off according to their own needs.
Simply, install the app, register yourself as a driver, and take as many rides as you need. The only few drawbacks are that the wear and tear of the vehicle are your own; also, the pay rate for long-distance travel is not the best.
Doordash
This is another app that requires your driving capability. If you require a few extra bucks in your free time, you can simply sign up in the app and be a delivery person working at your own freedom. The Doordash business model is a prime example of how gig apps should work.
As a food delivery app, gourmets get to order their food from the partner restaurant app, which thus allows delivery to the gig workers. Doordash allows a 100% delivery fee and tips to the delivery agents; however, they do not cover any gas or accidental cost.
Lyft
Toward its core ride-hailing service, Lyft offers a variety of gigs that can help drivers earn additional income. For example, drivers can sign up to become a Lyft driver-partner and earn money by giving rides, or they can apply to become a delivery driver for Lyft’s food delivery service, Lyft Food. But this is not all, Lyft offers various other services:
- Rental cars
- Bicycle sharing
- Motorized scooters
- Food delivery
- Vehicle on lease
This is one of the gig apps that pay same day. So, you do not have to worry about waiting for a month if you have some urgent needs.
Postmates
This food delivery company was acquired by Uber in 2020, and for a good reason. Postmates is a popular delivery service that connects customers with local couriers who can deliver everything from food and groceries to office supplies and household items.
As a Postmates courier, you can work as an independent contractor and set your own schedule, making it a great option for those looking for flexible gig work.
To get started, you simply need to sign up and pass a background check, after which you can start accepting delivery requests and -earning money. Postmates also offers various incentives and bonuses to its couriers, such as surge pricing during peak delivery times and the opportunity to earn tips from satisfied customers.
Instacart
An excellent grocery delivery app that also helps side hustlers to earn a few extra bucks for their needs. If you are a regular shopper or have some extra space in your vehicle, you may also simply buy groceries for another person and earn. Instacart’s business model allows shoppers to accept delivery requests at their own will.
The only drawback with Instacart gig work is that parking fees and gas are not included.
Fiverr
Undoubtedly one of the best gig apps that help people capitalize on their professional skills and work independently. As a gig worker, you get lots of areas to get skilled at. Here are a few examples of what Fiverr offers –
- Freelance writing
- SEO services
- Website development and maintenance
- Graphic design
- Voice over
- Translation
- Editing and proofreading
- Video editing
- App development
Fiverr allows you to do lots of gigs on contract basis and earn as you do.
Airbnb
Why not put that extra space in your home at work instead of yourself? Airbnb, one of the best gig apps, allows residents an opportunity to rent out their space as hotels do. The better you turn your room, the higher the price you can put.
Simply upgrade your rooms and register on Airbnb; the company will then verify your space and list it on their website. The good thing with Airbnb gig work is that you can set your own price.
Recently, we designed and built an On-Demand Marketplace & Errand Services App. Check out our work in this portfolio
TaskRabbit
A place that allows gig workers to perform various house-related tasks. If you are the super cool Deadpool of house chores, why not earn some money through it? Here are all the services covered by this company:
- House cleaning
- Furniture assembly
- Plumbing
- Repair work
- Cooking
- An extra hand at home
- Or other house-related errands
You may think of Taskrabbit as similar to Thumbtack, however, there are still differences. When it comes to Taskrabbit vs Thumbtack, the fight is arm-to-neck.
Turo
What good way to clear the EMIs of your car than to rent it out? Turo allows car owners to rent their cars on their platform. As a Turo host, you can set your own daily rental rate, decide when your car is available for rent, and choose to whom you rent your car.
Turo also provides host protection insurance and 24/7 customer support to ensure a safe and secure car-sharing experience for both hosts and renters.
Shipt
As another app that focuses on groceries, Shipt allows gigsters to shop for others and earn for it. If you love shopping, you simply need to register yourself, get verified, and start earning. Here are a few steps that Shipt works through:
- It partners with local grocery stores to provide a wide selection of items that customers can order through the Shipt app or website;
- When a customer places an order, a Shipt shopper receives the order and heads to the store to pick up the items;
- The shopper then delivers the groceries to the customer’s specified location within the designated delivery window.
It is this simple.
Amazon Flex
No wonder Amazon, as one of the biggest retail companies, would’ve stayed back in terms of gig works. This giant allows people to take up its deliveries and then deliver them in a given time period at a given delivery fee.
As an independent contractor, you choose your own vehicle, your own time, and your own place. The only con is that the delivery time allowed might seem a bit troublesome sometimes. The two requirements are that you must be 21 years old and own a vehicle.
Handy
Handy is a platform that connects people in need of home services with gig workers who are willing to provide those services. These gig workers can be independent contractors, freelancers, or part-time workers who are looking to earn extra money on the side.
Handy offers a range of services, including cleaning, furniture assembly, handyman services, and plumbing. Customers can easily book and pay for services through the platform, while gig workers can set their own schedules and prices.
Upwork
Upwork is something that most gig workers have heard of. It is a global freelancing platform that connects businesses and organizations with independent professionals who offer a wide range of services, including web development, graphic design, content writing, and virtual assistance.
As a freelancer, you can showcase your skills and experience to potential clients and submit proposals for jobs that interest them.
Pros and Cons Of Using Gig Economy Apps
As a future gig worker, you might want to know what benefits or disadvantages these gig economy apps offer. Let’s know about these
Pros:
- Flexibility
- Extra income
- No experience required, as long as you are skillful
Cons:
- No healthcare insurance
- No paid leaves
- No job security
- Pay rate might not be the highest
Tips for Making Money with Gig Apps
While earning on gig apps might seem alluring, it is not easy. Here are a few tips to help you enhance your earning pace and capability:
- Choose the right gig app;
- Optimize your gig work profile
- Price your services competitively
- Be professional and responsive
- Build a strong and tempting portfolio
- Keep upgrading your skills
- Always be reliable and provide high-quality work.
How to Build a Gig App?
Considering the gig economy pumping up, starting your own business around it is an excellent step. Once you have your gig app idea decided and planned, it is time to go for app development. Here is how it should be done:
- Identify the problem or need:
- Define the features and functionality:
- Choose the technology stack:
- Develop and test the app:
- Launch and market the app:
Conclusion
With gig apps economy shooting up, numerous ways to side hustle have opened up. It has everything for all the skills out there. If you know how to drive, you can earn through Uber, Doordash, Lyft, Instacart, Amazon flex, etc. If you don’t know how to drive, you have Taskrabbit, Fiverr, Handy, Upwork, etc. Considering the cost of living going a bit up, side hustling has become important. Also, from a business perspective, shaping an entire billion-dollar business around gig work is an excellent idea.
If you are a gig worker looking to work, know your niche and look for the right app. However, if you are looking to create gig apps, you’ve got aPurple. We have been helping businesses develop apps for years and helping their ideas reach their potential. Be it a delivery app, ride-sharing app, or errand services covers a wide range of ideas. Contact us in case you have an excellent business idea that is only waiting for a smooth and soothing app.
FAQs
What Is the Best App for Finding Side Gigs?
Amazon Flex, Instacart, Doordash, Fiverr, etc., provide excellent gig work and pay rates.
Why should you build gig apps?
The gig economy is rising up. Considering this, gig apps hold excellent earning potential.
What are the best Practices To Develop An App For The Gig Economy Industry?
When developing gig apps, always have a strong business idea, develop a professional app, and make it bug-free before launching.
What apps cash out instantly?
Lyft, Uber, Doordash, Postmates, and Instacart are a few gig apps that pay the same day.
