What do you consider to be a good tip?

I have dabbled in different types of work trying to find my groove. I have worked retail, fast food, and sales. I applied to be a driver at my last job and ended up being stuck behind a register. After a year I decided I wanted to try something new; I wanted to be an actual driver. I applied at Avellino's and got the job the same day, literally I walked in and he handed me deliveries. Before having this job I thought it was ok to tip my drivers a universal amount of 2-3 dollars. After two weeks working at Avellino's I have learned my lesson.

When tipping there are three things you should consider...

1. How much your order is. You are supposed to tip your driver like you tip your waiter. We rely on tips and also put the miles on our cars.

2. How far your driver has to commute.

3. Depending on the season, what are the conditions.

Note:

1. The delivery fee does not go to us.

2. We take place for the third most likely to be murdered job. Following the police and taxi drivers. The US government considers delivery to be a hazzardous job. (http://tipthepizzaguy.com)

I have two examples I experienced in one day that apply to these points. Take note that these deliveries were during the major downpour that took place. Most of the time I could not see 4 feet in front of me and my tires were submerged in water.

Example one, today I had a delivery that cost $132, a good amount of food to cary, and the location was about 8 minutes. Typically 15% is good. I received $5. However there are times where people don't tip at all so I'm not complaining.

Example two, today I had a delivery that only cost $25. 15% of that is 3-4 dollars. HOWEVER, this customer lived 11 miles away, a 17 minute drive that involved taking the highway. Taking this commute into consideration maybe a $6 tip is good. After that delivery I went back to the store with no tip. The lady literally took the food signed and shut the door. If you want food from a store 17 minutes away and you don't want to tip, go get it yourself.

Example three, if you order food to be delivered in a snow storm or hurricane you should really tip nicely.

Long story short, please take these three things into consideration when tipping your drivers. We don't get paid for gas or for the milage being put on our cars. We did sign up for the job but that doesn't mean you shouldn't tip. Just like waiters and waitresses, we rely on tips. Oh and don't be the lady in example two. Please be a better human being that the woman in example two.