A surge fee is a dynamic fee added to your order subtotal at checkout when demand for deliveries is higher than the number of riders available in your area. It's calculated based on how many people are ordering on Chowdeck at that moment versus how many riders are on the road to fulfill those orders in your location.
Surge fees are common during peak hours, bad weather, heavy traffic, or festive periods, when more orders are coming in than there are riders to deliver them.
Why do we charge this?
Surge pricing helps us fairly compensate riders for delivering under tougher conditions — like heavy rain, traffic gridlock, or unusually high demand and keeps enough riders on the road to fulfill orders reliably, even during difficult periods.
How can I avoid a surge fee?
Surge fees aren't always applied — they only kick in when demand outpaces rider availability in your area. A few things can help you avoid it:
Schedule your order in advance where possible.
Wait a little while before ordering, especially during peak periods (e.g. lunch/dinner rush, bad weather).
Subscribe to Chowpass, which waives surge fees on eligible orders from vendors with the Chowpass badge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the surge fee the same as the delivery fee?
No. The surge fee is a separate, dynamic add-on to your subtotal, on top of your regular delivery fee. It only appears when demand-supply conditions call for it.
Is surge pricing permanent in my area?
No. Surge is calculated in real time and can change throughout the day depending on order volume and rider availability at that moment — it isn't a fixed or ongoing charge.
Does Chowpass remove the surge fee entirely?
Chowpass waives surge fees on eligible orders from vendors carrying the Chowpass badge. [Learn more about Chowpass here.]
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have further questions regarding our fees. 💚