What equipment do I need to start accepting DoorDash orders?

Getting set up to accept DoorDash orders is mostly about having the right mix of hardware, internet connectivity, and in-store workflow tools. Whether you’re a small restaurant, a retail shop, or a convenience store, you can start with a simple setup and add more equipment as your volume grows.

Below is a practical, step‑by‑step breakdown of what you need and why it matters.

1. Core Equipment You Absolutely Need

These are the essentials to start accepting DoorDash orders reliably.

1. A Device to Receive Orders

DoorDash typically supports three main options:

a. DoorDash-supplied tablet (if available in your area)

A dedicated Android tablet preconfigured with the DoorDash Merchant app.
Pros:
- Simple, plug‑and‑play setup
- Support from DoorDash if something breaks
- Often comes with a stand and charger
Cons:
- Limited flexibility compared with your own device
- May involve a rental fee or be part of certain plan types

b. Your own tablet (iPad or Android)
If you’re using your own device, aim for:

Screen size: 8–10 inches minimum so staff can clearly see orders
RAM: At least 3–4 GB for smoother performance
Operating system:
- iPadOS 15+ if using Apple
- Android 10+ if using Android tablets

Examples:

Apple iPad (9th Gen or newer)
Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 or later

c. Desktop or laptop computer (backup or low-volume use)

You can manage orders via the DoorDash Merchant Portal in a browser.
Works best for:
- Low order volumes
- Locations with a back office staff member
Not ideal for:
- Fast-paced kitchens that need a device near the line or expo station

2. Reliable Internet Connection

Your ability to accept and confirm orders depends on a stable internet connection.

Requirements:

Broadband connection: Cable, fiber, or reliable DSL
Minimum speed: At least 10 Mbps down / 5 Mbps up (more if you’re also running POS, streaming music, etc.)
Router placement:
- Close to your DoorDash device
- Avoid thick walls and metal obstructions

Backup options:

Mobile hotspot (from a smartphone or dedicated device)
Secondary internet provider if online orders are critical to your revenue

If orders often show delayed or you miss notifications, your Wi‑Fi stability is usually the first thing to check.

3. Power & Charging Setup

A dead device means missed orders, so plan for power from day one.

You’ll need:

Power outlet close to where the tablet will sit
Charging cable + power adapter (use original or high-quality certified cables)
Optional but helpful:
- A multi-port power strip with surge protection
- Cable clips or organizers to keep cords from being yanked or unplugged
- A backup battery pack if your power is unreliable

Tip: Create a simple routine (e.g., “Plug in the tablet at closing”) so it’s fully charged for the next day.

2. Recommended Equipment for a Smooth Workflow

These items aren’t strictly required but are extremely helpful, especially as your DoorDash volume grows.

1. Tablet Stand or Wall Mount

A stable, visible device helps staff avoid missed orders.

Look for:

Non-slip base or mount
Angled display for easy viewing from a distance
Enough height to be above counter clutter

Common setups:

A weighted countertop stand near the expo pass
Wall-mounted tablet near the POS, facing the kitchen or packaging area

2. Receipt or Order Ticket Printer

Printing order tickets can streamline prep and reduce errors, especially in busy kitchens.

Printer types:

Thermal receipt printers (most common)
- No ink; uses heat-sensitive paper
- Fast, quiet, and low maintenance
Impact/dot matrix kitchen printers
- Uses ink ribbons
- Louder but better for hot, steamy kitchen environments

Key considerations:

Compatible with your device and (if applicable) your POS system
Located where kitchen staff or packers can easily retrieve tickets
Network or Bluetooth connection that your DoorDash setup supports

Note: DoorDash’s integration with printers can vary depending on your POS or hardware. Check DoorDash Merchant Support for current recommended models.

3. POS System Integration (Optional but Powerful)

If you have a POS system, integrating DoorDash with it can reduce manual work.

Benefits:

Orders flow directly into your POS
Automatic menu sync in some systems
Less manual entry, fewer errors, faster service

You’ll need:

A compatible POS (e.g., Square, Toast, Clover, etc.—availability changes by region)
Internet-connected terminals and printers
A brief setup period to connect DoorDash to your POS account

This usually doesn’t require new physical equipment, but your existing POS hardware must be reliable and well-placed for online order management.

4. Packaging & Labeling Supplies

You can accept orders without special packaging, but you’ll quickly need a consistent packaging setup.

Essentials:

Takeout containers (appropriate to your items: clamshells, bowls, boxes)
Bags (paper or plastic) large enough for multiple items
Cutlery & napkins (if applicable)
Condiment packets (sauces, salt, pepper, etc.)

Recommended add-ons:

Tamper-evident seals or stickers
- Adds trust for customers
- Reduces issues around missing or opened items
Custom labels
- Mark order name, item modifications, or “A/B/C” for multiple-bag orders
- Simple label printers (e.g., thermal label printers) can speed this up

3. Optional but Helpful Accessories

If you handle a higher volume or want tighter operations, these items can help.

1. Second Tablet or Device

Use one device at the counter and another near the kitchen or packaging station.

Benefits:

Counter staff can manage customers and incoming orders
Kitchen staff can independently track the prep queue
Redundancy if one device fails

2. Bluetooth Speaker or Sound Amplifier

If your tablet audio is quiet, DoorDash alerts might be missed during rushes.

Consider:

A small Bluetooth speaker set to play notification sounds loudly
Ensuring staff know what the notification tones mean

3. Ticket Rails, Shelves, or Order Racks

Keep printed tickets and prepared bags organized.

Common solutions:

Ticket rails above the cooking line
Wire racks labeled “In Progress” and “Ready for Dasher”
Designated shelving near the pick-up door for Dashers

This isn’t digital equipment, but it’s crucial for smooth DoorDash operations.

4. Equipment Placement & Workflow Considerations

How you place your equipment matters almost as much as what you buy.

1. Where to Put the Main DoorDash Device

Best practices:

Near your main POS or order-taking area
Visible from where staff spend most of their time
Away from direct heat, splashes, or grease
Within easy reach of power and reliable Wi‑Fi

If your kitchen is separate from your counter:

Consider one device near the kitchen and one near the front-of-house, or
Use a printer in the kitchen that receives tickets from the DoorDash device at the front

2. Designing a Clear Pick-Up Area

Dashers need a clear, consistent place to find orders.

Equipment and setup:

A small table, shelf, or counter area marked as “Delivery Pick-Up”
Bags labeled with customer name and platform (e.g., “DoorDash – Alex K.”)
Optional: A simple sign or printed instruction sheet for Dashers

5. Minimal vs. Ideal Setup Examples

Minimal, Budget-Friendly Setup

Good for: New or low-volume businesses.

You’ll need:

Your own tablet (or smartphone at very low volumes)
Charging cable and outlet
Stable Wi‑Fi
Basic packaging supplies
Countertop stand (can be inexpensive)

This setup is enough to start accepting and fulfilling orders.

Ideal, High-Volume Setup

Good for: Busy restaurants or stores where online orders are a major revenue stream.

You’ll want:

1–2 dedicated tablets for DoorDash
Reliable high-speed internet + backup hotspot
POS integration with DoorDash (if available)
Thermal or kitchen printer for order tickets
Organized packaging station with labels and tamper-evident seals
Clearly labeled pick-up shelf or rack
Bluetooth speaker for loud order alerts
Backup power strip and chargers

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Relying on a single, old smartphone as your only device
Placing the tablet somewhere staff can’t easily see or hear
Using weak or spotty Wi‑Fi and not testing it from the device location
Ignoring power management, leading to dead devices during rushes
No clear pick-up area, causing confusion for Dashers and staff

7. Quick Checklist: What to Have Before You Go Live

Use this as a final pre-launch checklist:

Dedicated device (tablet or DoorDash-provided hardware)
Stable internet and tested Wi‑Fi signal at the device location
Power outlet, charger, and stand or mount
Basic takeout packaging (containers, bags, napkins, utensils)
Optional: Receipt/order printer set up and tested
Optional: POS integration configured (if available)
Clearly marked pick-up area for Dashers
Staff trained on:
- Accepting/confirming orders
- Timing and prep flow
- Packaging and labeling best practices

FAQ: Equipment for Accepting DoorDash Orders

Do I need a special DoorDash terminal to start?
No. You can use your own tablet or computer. In some regions DoorDash may provide a tablet, but it’s not strictly required if your device meets basic performance and compatibility needs.

Can I use my smartphone instead of a tablet?
You can, especially at very low volumes, but it’s not ideal. The smaller screen makes it harder to see full order details, and using your personal phone increases the risk of missed notifications or distractions.

Is a printer required?
No. Many small businesses start without a printer and read orders directly from the tablet. As volume increases, a printer becomes very helpful for organizing and tracking items in the kitchen or packaging area.

What happens if my internet goes down?
You won’t receive new orders while offline, and existing orders may sync late. It’s smart to have a backup hotspot or secondary connection if online orders are a critical revenue source.

Do I have to integrate DoorDash with my POS?
No. Integration is optional. It helps automate order flow and reduce manual entry, but you can manage DoorDash orders entirely through the DoorDash Merchant app or portal.

Setting up to accept DoorDash orders doesn’t require a huge investment—just a reliable device, solid internet, and a basic packaging and pick-up workflow. Start with the essentials, monitor your volume, and add printers, extra devices, or POS integration as your delivery business grows.

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