DoorDash Launches Drone Delivery and Nationwide Returns
DoorDash has launched its own custom-built drone delivery system and a flat-fee retail returns service, expanding into high-margin logistics segments to
DoorDash is launching its own custom-built drone delivery system and a nationwide retail returns service. The company's in-house robotics division, DoorDash Labs, designed the six-rotor drones after previously relying on partners like Alphabet's Wing and Flytrex for aerial deliveries.
DoorDash closely consulted with businesses to design packaging, loading systems, and ground handoffs for the new service. The goal is to build an array of loading options that fit into existing business operations without disruption. About 80% of typical restaurant orders are light and small enough for the aircraft to carry safely. Trial flights with national brands Chipotle and Popeyes, plus local restaurants in Northern California, have shown delivery times averaging less than five minutes.
Customers can now choose on the app whether their order arrives by a driver, the company's self-designed small robot called Dot, or a drone. An autonomous system uses smart routing that incorporates weather, flight range, and ground traffic to determine if air delivery is feasible. The drone’s cruising noise is similar to a passing car. Orders are picked up and lowered via a winch, with a backup option to safely lower the aircraft if needed.
Harrison Shih, head of DoorDash Air, emphasized the system's design for accessibility. "Any local business should be able to reach consumers by air," Shih said. The company will continue partnerships with third parties like Wing and Flytrex, but developing in-house capabilities adds resilience to its network. A separate pilot with Lowe's in North Carolina, enabled by DoorDash's marketplace and Wing's drones, is also underway.
DoorDash Rolls Out Nationwide Retail Returns Service
Simultaneously, DoorDash launched a retail returns service called Dasher Returns, using its existing gig driver network. The service charges a flat $7.99 fee, with drivers promising pickup in as fast as 30 minutes. No box or label is required, and DoorDash says refunds will be processed within days. The program is live in select cities and is expected to roll out nationwide in November.
This move into reverse logistics targets higher margins than standard store-to-door delivery and directly challenges parcel incumbents like FedEx and UPS. FedEx last year began offering a lower-cost, no-box, no-label returns service, but it requires consumers to drop off goods at physical outlets. DoorDash's model brings the pickup to the customer's door.
Expanding the Retail Marketplace
The returns service complements DoorDash's growing retail marketplace, which it calls 'Mall-in-Your-Pocket.' The platform has recently added brands like Macy’s, Anthropologie, The North Face, Vans, and Timberland for fast delivery of apparel, beauty, and home goods. Partnerships with Costco and Skims also began this month.
To support these retailers, DoorDash introduced a Brand Center. This tool gives participating brands real-time visibility into inventory on store shelves and helps them understand shopper substitution trends when items are out of stock. Shanna Prevé, Chief Revenue Officer at DoorDash, highlighted the strategic value for retail partners. "For retailers, it means turning the stores they already have into a growth channel, not a warehouse three states away," Prevé said.
DoorDash plans to roll out its returns service nationwide in November.
