Build 10x products in minutes by chatting with AI - beyond just a prototype.
What are delivery blocks in apps like Amazon Flex?
How do push notifications enhance the Amazon Flex experience?
This blog provides a comprehensive guide for building delivery apps similar to Amazon Flex, focusing on the underlying technology, essential features, and scalable design. It explains how to power functionalities like delivery blocks and real-time tracking for product managers, founders, and developers. Learn to create a seamless platform that supports independent contractors and flexible scheduling, ensuring a smooth user experience.
How about creating a delivery app where drivers choose when and where to work, just like Amazon Flex?
This blog explains how apps like Amazon Flex function, from assigning delivery blocks to tracking packages in real time. We’ll also cover the tech and features that keep things running smoothly for drivers and users. If you're building for independent contractors and want flexible scheduling to actually work, this post will help.
Keep reading to learn what goes into building a reliable, user-friendly platform from the ground up.
Let’s get started.
Amazon Flex is a logistics program that enables individuals to deliver packages using their vehicles. They set their hours and choose available delivery blocks. The Flex app connects independent contractors with delivery opportunities.
Core purpose: Help Amazon deliver smiles to customers homes while giving people a way to earn extra cash in their spare time.
Unlike other delivery platforms, the Amazon Flex app focuses primarily on scheduled delivery blocks, allowing drivers to schedule work ahead rather than waiting for random gigs.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| User onboarding | Register using a valid driver's license, valid ID, and background check |
| Block scheduling | Drivers can reserve delivery blocks and schedule work ahead |
| Real-time GPS tracking | Optimize routes and track delivery time |
| Push notifications | Alert drivers about same day offers, traffic, or schedule changes |
| Document verification | Upload documents like personal auto insurance and social security number |
| In-app navigation | Integrated maps for route optimization |
| Earnings dashboard | Track actual earnings, tax summary, and deposits to bank account or savings account |
| Dark mode | Offers better readability in low light |
| Device settings integration | Handle push notifications through device settings |
| In-store shopper mode | Allow drivers to be an in store shopper or full service shopper for local stores |
| Layer | Suggested Technology Stack |
|---|---|
| Frontend | React Native or Flutter (cross-platform) |
| Backend | Node.js or Django, REST APIs |
| Database | PostgreSQL for relational data, MongoDB for flexible data |
| Cloud | AWS, GCP, or Azure |
| Notifications | Firebase Cloud Messaging, APNs |
| Maps/Navigation | Google Maps SDK or Mapbox |
| Authentication | OAuth2, JWT |
Scan and validate a valid driver's license, social security number, and background check.
Upload documents for personal auto insurance.
Approval workflow via the admin panel.
Display available delivery blocks in real-time.
Allow drivers to accept same-day offers.
Provide options to schedule work ahead.
Drivers receive routes that deliver packages to customers faster.
Integrate real-time traffic data.
Match vehicle type to package volume (e.g., midsize sedan or larger vehicle).
Direct deposit to a bank account or a savings account.
Track actual earnings and drivers to earn insights.
Earnings are viewed broken down by delivery time and delivery blocks.
Drivers can receive communications like block availability.
Manage push notification preferences through device settings.
Respect the privacy notice in notification settings.
Apps like Amazon Flex must follow local requirements, including:
Background checks using third-party services.
GDPR and CCPA compliance for data protection.
In-app consent for the privacy notice and to receive communications.
Ensure every driver provides:
Valid ID and a valid driver's license
Proof of maintaining personal auto insurance
Identity checks before the first delivery
Use queuing mechanisms (Kafka, RabbitMQ) for peak-hour delivery opportunities.
Optimize DB reads for delivery time, schedule, and route planning.
Ensure on-road support through live chat or quick ticketing for driver issues.
Allow operators in major cities to manage multiple apps from the same backend.
Geo-fence logic to assign deliveries in regions.
Earnings depend on delivery time, vehicle type, and region.
Apps must transparently show actual earnings with breakdowns.
Most drivers earn more during peak times or same-day offers.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Base Pay | $18/hour |
| Incentives | Surge Pricing, Tips |
| Payout Method | Weekly to bank account |
| Requirements | Valid driver's license, own vehicle, personal auto insurance |
Apps like Amazon Flex must clearly state how drivers earn, how earnings depend on delivery blocks, and what other factors may apply.
Building an app similar to Amazon Flex means deeply understanding the delivery driving opportunity from both the driver’s and customer’s perspectives. From onboarding independent contractors to letting them deliver groceries, dry cleaning, or food, a robust system must account for everything—from notification preferences to dark mode usability.
With a clean tech stack, intuitive UX, and strong backend infrastructure, you can create apps like Amazon Flex that help users deliver smiles and provide great pay in their spare time.
Key takeaway: A successful flex app makes delivering packages easy, respects privacy, and handles complexity so drivers can deliver packages on time, every time.
