How to order food delivery with Uber Eats

What is Uber Eats and how does it work?

Uber Eats is one of the most popular delivery apps in the world and is also widely available in the Netherlands. With this app you can easily order food from restaurants in your area and have it delivered to your home. Whether you feel like pizza, sushi, Indonesian food or a healthy salad, you will almost always find something to your taste on Uber Eats.

The app uses independent couriers who pick up your order at the restaurant by car, scooter or bike and bring it to your address. This system means that even restaurants that normally do not offer delivery can still deliver through the Uber Eats platform.

Downloading and installing the Uber Eats app

To get started with Uber Eats, you need the app on your smartphone. The app is available for free for both iPhone and Android devices. Go to the App Store or Google Play Store and search for "Uber Eats". Download the app and open it once it is installed.

The first time you use it, you need to create an account. You can do this with your email address or phone number, or by linking your Facebook or Google account. Enter your delivery address so the app knows which restaurants are available in your area. Do not forget to also add a payment method, such as a credit card, debit card or PayPal.

Placing your first order

As soon as your account is set up, you can start browsing what is on offer. On the home screen you see various categories such as "Popular near you", "New on Uber Eats" and "Fast delivery". You can also search for specific dishes or restaurant names using the search bar at the top.

Tap a restaurant to view its menu. Here you see all available dishes with prices and often photos too. Tap a dish to add it to your cart. For some dishes you can choose extra options, such as toppings, sides or the portion size you want.

When you have finished choosing, go to your cart. Check your order and the delivery address. Here you also see the estimated delivery time and the total cost, including delivery fees and service fees. Choose your payment method and confirm the order.

Delivery times and tracking

One of the handy features of Uber Eats is real-time tracking. As soon as your order has been placed, you can follow exactly what is happening. You see when the restaurant accepts your order, when it is being prepared, when the courier picks up the food and where the courier is on the way to you.

The estimated delivery time usually ranges from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy it is, the distance and the type of dish. During peak hours such as Friday and Saturday evenings, delivery may take a bit longer. The app keeps you informed of any delays.

Payment options on Uber Eats

Uber Eats offers several payment options. In the Netherlands you can pay by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), debit card, PayPal and sometimes also with iDEAL through the app. You can save multiple payment methods in your account and choose which one to use for each order.

You can also use Uber Cash, a digital wallet within the Uber app that you can top up with credit. This can be handy if you have received a gift card or if you want to limit your spending.

Costs and tips

In addition to the price of your dishes, you also pay delivery fees and service fees on Uber Eats. Delivery fees vary per restaurant and can be higher at busy times. The service fee is a percentage of your order. Keep this in mind when placing your order, because the total cost may turn out higher than you expect.

After delivery you get the option to tip the courier. This is not required but is greatly appreciated. You can choose from suggested amounts or enter an amount yourself. The full tip goes to the courier.

Promo codes and deals

Uber Eats regularly runs offers and discount promotions. New users often get a discount on their first order. In addition, promo codes are regularly available that give you a discount at certain restaurants or free delivery.

You can find current deals in the app under the "Offers" or "Promotions" heading. You can also sign up for the newsletter to stay informed about new promotions. Do check the terms, because some codes are only valid at certain restaurants or above a minimum order amount.

Uber Eats Pass

For frequent users there is Uber Eats Pass, a subscription service that gives you free delivery on orders above a certain amount. You pay a fixed monthly fee and save on delivery fees if you order regularly. On top of that, you sometimes get extra discounts at selected restaurants.

Whether Uber Eats Pass is worth it depends on how often you order. If you have food delivered through the app several times a month, the subscription can quickly pay for itself.

Tips for a good experience

To make your Uber Eats experience as smooth as possible, here are some practical tips. Make sure your delivery address is filled in correctly, including your house number and any additions. Add delivery instructions if you are hard to find, for example "ring the bell at the side door" or "apartment on the third floor".

Keep your phone at hand while your order is on its way, so the courier can reach you if needed. Check your order when it arrives and report any problems right away through the app. Uber Eats has a customer service team that can help you with missing items or other problems.

Alternatives to Uber Eats

Although Uber Eats is very popular, other delivery apps are also available in the Netherlands. Thuisbezorgd.nl is the biggest competitor and often has a different selection of restaurants. Deliveroo is also active in larger cities. It can pay off to have several apps, so you can compare selection, prices and delivery times.

Each app has its own strengths. Some restaurants are available exclusively on one platform, so it is worth checking where your favorite restaurant has the best offer.

Frequently asked questions

What are the delivery fees on Uber Eats?

Delivery fees on Uber Eats vary per restaurant and time of day. On average they are between 1.99 and 4.99 euros. At busy times the fees can be higher. With Uber Eats Pass you can get free delivery on orders above a certain amount.

Can I cancel my order?

You can cancel your order as long as the restaurant has not yet started preparing it. Go to your current order in the app and tap 'Cancel order'. If preparation has already started, canceling is usually no longer possible and you will not get a full refund.

What do I do if something is wrong with my order?

If something is wrong with your order, such as missing items or the wrong dishes, you can report it through the app. Go to your order history, select the order in question and choose 'Help'. Here you can request a refund or credit for the missing or incorrect items.

Is Uber Eats available throughout the Netherlands?

Uber Eats is available in most large and medium-sized cities in the Netherlands. In smaller towns and rural areas the selection may be more limited or the service may not be available. Enter your postal code in the app to see which restaurants deliver in your area.