Tax-deductible products delivery drivers should keep in their car.
Here at Stride, we’re always trying to help self-employed workers save time and money. When you’re a food delivery driver, you’re an independent contractor, and that means you can deduct certain business expenses to pay less in taxes.
It also means that you’re probably spending several hours at a time driving, and it’s important that you do everything you can to stay healthy and comfortable. Here are some products that will help you do just that and that you can deduct as business expenses. The good news: anything you purchase between now and Dec. 31st can be used to help lower the taxes you owe next year.
Disclosure: this article contains affiliate links, and that means we’ll get paid a small fee if you purchase any of these products. That’s one of the ways we can afford to provide the FREE Stride app that helps you track your mileage, expenses, and tax deductions.
1. Phone mounts.
A good phone mount is a must-have for every delivery driver; not only will it keep your directions front and center, but it’ll keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. Here are some of the best-reviewed phone mounts on Amazon.
Magnetic mounts. The nice thing about magnetic mounts is that you can easily remove your phone if you need to send a text or make a call. They include magnetic backings that stick to the back of your phone or inside your phone case.
Flexible & customizable. Here’s a mount with an adjustable grip and the option to bring it closer with an extension arm.
Unobtrusive. Vent-mounted options are a nice alternative if you don’t want something attached to your windshield or dashboard.
Cup holder phone mount. And if you don’t want it in your vents either, this cupholder mount is a nice option.
2. Dash Cams
Having a dash cam provides an objective witness if you’re ever involved in a collision or some other accident. Think of it like an insurance policy for yourself and your car!
Best seller. This is the best-selling Dash Cam on Amazon:
Pricier, but considered the best among experts. This one records features HD recording, GPS tracking and automatic recording.
3. Phone charger and cable
Obviously you need to keep your phone charged to maximize your delivery time!
This multi-devicecharger has 4 USB ports, all of which charge at 2.4 amps—so you’ll be able to power your phone, a dashcam, a GPS, and still have a slot for a passenger.
Click here to see all chargers on Amazon.
And of course you’ll want some cables:
4. LED Flashlight
Having a good flashlight handy makes it a lot easier to see street signs on dark roads!
Click here to shop all flashlights on Amazon
Speaking of dark roads, you might consider upgrading to LED headlight lamps to really brighten things up at night:
5. First Aid Kit & Medicine
Hopefully this is one product you’ll never need to use, but really good to have just in case.
6. Head and Neck Rest
Getting a stiff neck could keep you off the road for a few days, so make sure you take good care of your head and neck while driving!
In addition to being great for long flights, these travel pillows are also handy for taking naps between shifts
7. Lower Back Support
Driving for long periods of time can make your back a little sore, so investing in one of these could help you stay on the road longer:
8. Pepper Spray
This is another product that fits in the category of stuff you hope you’ll never need, but could be useful when driving in high-crime areas. Just make sure to check your rules and laws to make sure it’s legal in your area.
9. Polarized Sunglasses
Polarized sunglasses reduce glare and provide a more clear field of vision. There’s a massive selection of polarized sunglasses on Amazon and something for every budget. Here’s the #1 Best Seller on Amazon:
Some people like to invest more in sunglasses, feeling that’s one product where you get what you pay for in terms of durability and lens quality. Here’s another option:
10. Insulated bags
In addition to the bags your delivery company provides, you might want a couple extra to make sure you keep your customer’s food hot (or cold).
11. Umbrella & rain jacket
Chances are, at some point you’re going to find yourself delivering in the rain. An umbrella will keep your customer’s order dry, which can result in better ratings and tips, and a good rain jacket will keep you from getting soaked—who wants to drive around all night in wet clothes?
12. Bluetooth headset
If you get a lot of calls or like to chat in between rides, you’ll want a good hands-free solution. Here’s Amazon’s choice among headsets:
So there you have it—12 tax-deductible products that every food delivery driver should keep in their car. And don’t forget, you can expense these purchases to help lower your tax bill! Download the FREE Stride app to automatically track your miles, record your business expenses, and lower your tax bill!
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Disclaimer: The information contained here is not offered as legal or tax advice. The U.S. federal income tax discussion included above is for general information purposes only and is not a complete analysis or discussion of all potential tax consequences that may be relevant to a particular individual. In light of the foregoing, each individual should consult with and seek advice from such individual's own tax advisor with respect to the tax consequences discussed herein. Any information contained above is not intended to be used, and cannot be used, for purposes of avoiding penalties imposed under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.