In-House Delivery vs. Delivery Platforms: Which Should You Choose?
When should you rely on your own captains, and when should you rely on a platform? A comparison of cost, control, and reach, plus a hybrid model that combines both.
Every restaurant owner eventually asks the same question: should I run my own delivery fleet, or rely on a delivery platform? The answer depends on your order volume and geographic reach.
Quick comparison
| Criterion | In-house captains | Delivery platform |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed cost | Salaries and maintenance | Zero |
| Variable cost | Fuel and incentives | Commission per order |
| Reach to new customers | Limited | Very high |
| Control over the experience | Full | Moderate |
| Flexibility during peak hours | Weak | High |
When should you rely on your own captains?
- If you handle more than 60 daily orders within a 3 km radius.
- If packaging and presentation are core to your brand experience.
- If you have a loyal customer base that orders directly from you.
When should you rely on a platform?
- If you're still building your customer base.
- If your orders are seasonal or unpredictable.
- If you need to expand into farther areas without the cost of a fleet.
The hybrid model is the smartest move
Most successful restaurants in Egypt run both: in-house captains cover the nearby radius and direct orders, while the platform covers farther areas and peak-hour surges. Wassel officially supports this model from the same dashboard.
Let the platform bring you new customers, and let your own captains keep your loyal ones.
Frequently asked questions
Wassel is an Egyptian delivery app that brings you food, groceries, medicine, and parcels from restaurants and stores in your city, with real-time order tracking and cash or online payment.