Dolly Review: How Much Can You Make?

A great side hustle can help can transform your financial trajectory. But discovering the right one is sometimes easier said than done.

You need to find something you enjoy, that aligns with your skillset, and is lucrative enough to make it worthwhile. 

If you have the ability to lift heavy objects and don't mind performing physical labor, you can make up to $50 per hour, on average, with Dolly. In this Dolly review, we'll cover everything you need to know about this unique app-based side hustle.  

What Is Dolly?

Dolly is a gig economy app that connects people who need heavy items moved with independent contractors willing to do the heavy lifting. Dolly launched in 2015 in the Seattle area. Since then, the company has expanded into 45 cities around the country and helped facilitate the delivery of over 3.2 million items. As of writing, over 15,000 helpers are on the app and ready to lend a hand.

What Does It Offer?

Dolly connects movers with helpers. In this review, I will focus on what the platform has to offer anyone looking for a new income stream. 

Get Paid To Move Items

The hourly rates advertised by Dolly make it an attractive opportunity for side hustlers. According to the company, Dolly Helpers make an average of $50 per hour. Dolly Hands, who don’t have their own large vehicle for moving items, make an average of $35 per hour. On top of this hourly rate, you’ll get to keep 100% of any tips given by customers.

Flexible Opportunities

Dolly offers several ways to make money. Here’s a breakdown of those opportunities:

• Helper: Helpers have a qualified vehicle, like a pickup truck, cargo van, box truck, or SUV with a trailer, to help people move items around town. Additionally, a helper must be able to lift 75 pounds. Of course, you’ll also need a valid driver’s license, auto insurance, and provide proof of ownership for the vehicle. 
• Hand: A Hand is someone who assists Helpers. You don’t need a qualified vehicle to sign up as a Hand through Dolly, but you must also be able to lift 75 pounds. 
• Assistant: Assistants work on the team of a Specific Helper.

Everyone who works with Dolly must be at least 18 years old. Additionally, you must have a smartphone that supports the app, a PayPal account, and a willingness to pay for a background check.

Fast Payment

Any side hustler knows that fast payment is preferred. Luckily, Dolly sends out your payment via PayPal twice per week. 

If you complete a move on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday, you’ll get paid on Friday. If you complete a move on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, you’ll get paid on Tuesday. The fast payment timeline is a worthwhile perk.

Occupational Accident Insurance (OAI)

Dolly currently offers OAI to protect your finances if you are hurt on a Dolly job. The coverage can pay for things like related medical bills, lost wages, and death benefits. 

Helpers and Hands can get this coverage everywhere in the country, except California. In California, only Helpers can access this coverage. 

Are There Any Fees?

The first fee you’ll encounter through the platform is the background check fee. You’ll have to cover this cost and pass the background check to get started.

Another fee you might encounter is when you re-list Apartment Moves. The fee starts at $40 if you re-list an Apartment Move within 24 hours of the start time. But you might still encounter a fee if you re-list before the 24-hour mark. 

How Does Dolly Compare?

Dolly isn’t the only platform that connects people with a side hustle opportunity.

Other app-based side hustles include Uber and Lyft. These ride-sharing apps let you use your vehicle to transport people and goods across town. Like Dolly, you’ll be able to pick your own schedule. But drivers usually earn less per hour with Uber and Lyft.

If you are looking for more passive income, Airbnb is a good alternative. You can earn money by renting out your extra space, like a room in your home or an entire apartment. 

How Do I Open An Account?

The first step is to find out if Dolly is operating in your city. The app is currently open in 45 major cities. But check the list before applying.

If you are able to move forward, start by filling out an application. You’ll need to provide some information about yourself, like your name, email, Social Security Number, vehicle type, proof of insurance, etc.

With this information, Dolly will run a background check. If you pass, you can download the app to start accepting Dollys. Importantly, the sign up process can take 7 to 10 days. 

Is It Safe And Secure?

Dolly requires applicants to pass a background check, which provides a layer of safety for all users. For example, if you work with other Helpers or Hands, you’ll know they passed a background check.

Additionally, Dolly offers OAI coverage to Helpers and Hands in most states. Only Hands in California won’t have OAI coverage, which can help pay for medical bills and lost wages after getting injured during a move.

And payment is sent via PayPal, which is a secure way to receive funds. 

How Do I Contact Dolly?

If you need to get in touch with Dolly, you can reach out through the chat feature. Support hours are from 9 AM to 9 PM EST.

The app has earned 4.7 out of 5 stars in the Apple App Store and 4.4 out of 5 stars in the Google Play Store. With these high ratings, you should expect an enjoyable experience. 

Is It Worth It?

If you have the time and strength to help other people move, then Dolly might be a good fit for your situation. As a side hustle, the earning potential is relatively high. But it’s only available in 45 cities, so it's not an option for many side hustlers.

If Dolly isn’t the right fit for your fitness level or location, that’s okay! Check out this long list of other side hustle ideas.

Check out Dolly here >>

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