Hiring someone to run your errands sounds simple until you realize you're trusting a stranger with your time, money, and personal information. The difference between a reliable errand service and a frustrating one often comes down to a handful of critical questions asked upfront. Here's what you need to clarify before handing over your list.
Background and Insurance Coverage
Before anything else, confirm whether the errand service carries liability insurance and bonding. This protects you if something goes wrong—a package gets lost, your car sustains damage, or money goes missing. Ask specifically what their coverage limits are and request proof of current insurance. A legitimate service will have no problem providing documentation within 24 hours.
Also ask about background checks. Reputable errand runners should have completed criminal background screening, especially if they'll be entering your home or handling sensitive documents like medical paperwork. Don't settle for "we do basic checks"—ask what type of screening and how recently it was completed.
What Services They Actually Offer
Errand services vary wildly in scope. Some handle only grocery shopping and dry cleaning pickups, while others manage bill payments, appointment scheduling, and package coordination. List out your specific needs and ask which ones the service can actually handle.
For financial tasks specifically—like paying bills or depositing checks—ask whether they're comfortable handling cash, if they'll keep receipts, and how they document transactions. Some services draw the line at cash entirely. Others require you to set up a dedicated account or provide a spending card with preset limits.
Pricing and Payment Structure
Pricing typically falls into three models: hourly rates (usually $20–$40 per hour), per-errand fees ($5–$15 per task), or subscription packages ($50–$150 monthly for bundled services). Ask which model applies to your situation and whether there are minimums or travel fees.
Clarify what "per errand" actually means. Does picking up groceries and dry cleaning count as one errand or two? What if a store is closed and they need to go elsewhere? Getting specific prevents bill shock later.
Ask about payment methods too. Do they accept credit cards, transfers, or cash only? Are there surcharges for certain payment types? Some services require upfront payment; others invoice weekly or monthly.
Availability and Scheduling
Understand their availability window. Can they run errands on weekends, evenings, or only business hours? What's their typical turnaround time—same day, within 48 hours, or something else? If you have time-sensitive needs (picking up prescriptions before 5 p.m.), confirm they can reliably meet those deadlines.
Ask about cancellation or rescheduling policies. If you need to cancel an errand appointment, how much notice do you need to avoid fees? What happens if they cancel?
Communication and Accountability
How will they keep you updated? Will you receive a text, email, or photo confirmation when tasks are complete? Do they provide itemized receipts? If something goes wrong—a store is out of stock, a service is closed—how quickly will they notify you with alternatives?
Ask about their process for handling special requests or changes mid-task. If you remember you need something else added to the shopping list, can they adjust on the fly, or is that not possible?
References and Reviews
Request at least two references from current or past clients. A solid errand service should have no hesitation here. You can also check online reviews on Google, Yelp, or platforms like Mercoly, which helps you compare and find trusted errand running services in one place.
Pay attention to patterns in reviews. One complaint about lateness might be circumstance; multiple complaints about missing items or poor communication are red flags.
Trial Run
Before committing to a regular arrangement, ask if you can start with a single small errand to assess reliability, professionalism, and attention to detail. A trustworthy service will welcome this approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can an errand service handle financial transactions like paying bills or making bank deposits? Some services do, but it depends on the company's policies and your comfort level. Always confirm their specific experience with financial tasks and how they document transactions.
Q: What if an errand service loses or damages something I asked them to pick up? This is why you confirm their liability insurance and bonding upfront. Review their written policy on damaged or lost items before hiring, as it typically defines their reimbursement limits.
Q: Is it normal to pay a separate travel fee, or should that be included in the hourly rate? Both models exist. Some charge travel fees for errands beyond a certain radius; others bundle it in. Clarify this during your initial conversation so there are no surprises on your invoice.
Start by asking these questions via email or phone, and use their responses to narrow down your choice.