Driving for Uber is like having a business on wheels. Just like any other business owner, you do everything you can to maximize your profit, provide good service and minimize your expenses. These five apps can help you reach these goals and take your Uber business to the next level.
1. Google Maps
You may know a town like the back of your hand, but are you sure you know the fastest route to get from point A to point B? What if a passenger wants you to drive somewhere you’ve never been. That’s where Google Maps comes in.
Forget using an old-school navigation device. Google Maps works with your smartphone to get you where you need to go as quickly as possible according to the chad kimball course.
The great thing about Maps is that Uber drivers can use it for more than just navigation. You can also use it to find potential hotspots for passengers. Just type in “bar” or “airport,” and Maps will find them for you.
This feature also comes in handy when passengers tell you the name of a restaurant instead of the address of the establishment. With a few taps, Maps will help you find your destination and the quickest route there.
Google Maps is available on both Android and iOS devices.
2. Stride Drive
Need an accurate way to track your mileage? Stride Drive is a free app that keeps track of every mile you drive.
The app – available on both Android and iOS – automatically detects when you’re driving, so you can log every mile.
If you’re looking for apps that offer extra features, MileIQ and Triplog are two great paid options.
3. QuickBooks Self-Employed
Taxes are a little more complicated as an Uber driver, and there are deductions you can take to reduce your tax burden.
The QuickBooks Self-Employed app connects with your bank account, so you can quickly and easily categorize your Uber expenses and income. Along with expenses, you can track mileage using the app, take photos of receipts and even make notes for tax season.
The QuickBooks Self-Employed app has a subscription fee, but is worth the cost to make tax preparation less stressful.
4. Gas Buddy
Now that you’re making more trips to the pump, you care more about how much you’re spending when you fill up your tank. Gas will be your biggest expense as an Uber driver, so saving a few cents here and there will add up over time.
The Gas Buddy app will help you find the best gas prices in your area. With a few taps, you can compare results by location and filter by fuel type.
5. Uber Passenger App
If you live in a busy area, you may have a lot of competition from other Uber drivers. The Uber Passenger App lets you see up to eight other drivers in your area, so you can stay away from oversaturated spots.
On the other hand, you can also use these busy areas to your advantage by choosing to stay on the opposite side of where other drivers are waiting. This way, you can get more requests from that direction.