Frequently Asked Questions About Route Relief®

 

Who is Route Relief®?

Founded by Ron Slusser, Founder of Routes For Sale®

Route Relief® is a subsidiary of Routes For Sale®, created to support the unique needs of route owners by attempting to connect them with reliable relief drivers for vacations, time off, emergencies, and more.

As a former distributor with over 30 years of experience in the route industry, Ron founded Route Relief® based on firsthand experience. He recognized the challenges route owners face in finding trustworthy relief coverage when time off is needed.

After speaking with countless route owners, two of the most commonly requested needs became clear: access to healthcare and vacation relief. Route Relief® was created to directly address one of these key challenges by offering a completely free platform that helps connect route owners with qualified relief drivers—keeping routes running smoothly and giving owners the flexibility they deserve.

What is Route Relief®?

Route Relief® is a free platform that connects route owners with qualified drivers to cover their routes during vacations, emergencies, or other temporary absences. It ensures uninterrupted service for businesses and peace of mind for route owners. Think of it as a benefit for 1099 distributors.

How does Route Relief® work?

Route owners create a free profile and search for vetted drivers in their area for their coverage needs. The owner and driver coordinate directly to confirm schedules, rates, and any specific requirements for the route.

What if there are no drivers available in my area?

If no drivers are immediately available, keep checking back as new drivers are registering daily. You can also expand your search radius to increase your chances of finding a match. Many drivers will travel to your area if you compensate them for travel expenses.

What if there are no owners available in my area?

If no owners are currently seeking relief drivers in your area, we will keep your profile active.  Check back often as new owners are registering daily.

What qualifications do drivers need to join Route Relief®?

Drivers must have a valid driver’s license, relevant route or delivery experience, and any additional certifications required for the specific route. Disclaimer: While Route Relief® has an internal verification process, and training program to qualify drivers we recommend that route owners do their own due diligence (e.g.) background checks and confirm with their insurance carrier that their policy has coverage for relief drivers.

How does payment work between route owners and drivers?

Payment terms are typically agreed upon directly between the route owner and the driver. This can be a flat daily rate, hourly rate, or percentage of route earnings, depending on the arrangement between parties. Route Relief® does not get involved with the payment process. Disclaimer: If a driver requires an upfront deposit, we recommend that the owner thoroughly vet the driver accordingly by doing their own due diligence.

How do I request a replacement driver for my route?

Simply log into your Route Relief® account, and search for drivers based on your specific requirements.

What types of routes can Route Relief® cover?

Route Relief® supports a wide range of delivery routes, including bread, snacks, beverages, logistics, and more.

Is there a minimum commitment for using Route Relief® services?

No, there is no minimum commitment. Route Relief® is a FREE network provided by Routes For Sale® as a benefit for 1099 route owners/distributors and is available for use for both drivers and owners.

What is the cancellation policy if I no longer need a driver?

Cancellation policies and any additional terms vary depending on the agreement made between the route owner and the driver. We recommend clearly discussing this before confirming a booking. Disclaimer: All agreements are made between owner and driver and not Route Relief®.

What if a driver is a no-show or cancels last minute?

In the event of a no-show or last-minute cancellation, please contact us on our support page so we can address the situation and decide whether the driver should be removed from the platform.

Does the relief driver need their own vehicle?

Typically, no. The driver usually uses the owner’s vehicle to service the route. However, specifics can vary depending on the type of vehicle used by the owner for the route. For instance, if the owner uses a box truck, the driver would likely use that. If the owner uses a trailer pulled by a pickup truck, the driver could use either the owner’s vehicle or their own, provided they have one.

Are drivers insured, and what kind of coverage is required?

In most cases, the route owner’s auto and general liability insurance policy covers individuals servicing the route. However, Route Relief® strongly recommends confirming this with your insurance provider before hiring a relief driver. With that in mind, if a driver regularly runs routes full-time for distributors, we recommend operating as a business by forming a separate legal entity and securing individual general liability insurance.

What happens if a driver damages my vehicle or equipment?

Any damage should be reported immediately to your insurance company. Route Relief® does not get involved with this process.

How is customer feedback handled for both owners and drivers?

To help ensure a positive experience for both parties, owners and drivers are encouraged to leave feedback after each job to help maintain the quality and reliability of the platform. This rating system helps build trust and accountability within our community.

How do I report an issue or dispute with a driver or route owner?

If a driver has conducted themselves unprofessionally or inappropriately, please leave the corresponding feedback on their profile and contact us on our support page so we can address the situation and decide whether the driver or owner should be removed from the platform.

Is Route Relief® available in all states?

Yes, Route Relief® is continually expanding. Please check back often if there is no availability.  New route owners and drivers are registering daily.

What if a route owner wants to hire me permanently?

If a route owner is impressed with your work and wants to hire you permanently, that’s great! Just be sure to update your Route Relief® profile accordingly.

Are there any fees for signing up as a driver or owner?

No, the platform is 100% fee to register and use for both route owners and drivers. Payment terms are negotiated between parties.

Can being a relief driver be a business opportunity?

Absolutely! Becoming a relief driver can be a great way to earn a part-time or even full-time income with flexibility and low overhead. In addition, our comprehensive training program not only helps drivers succeed but also allows Route Relief® to introduce new distributors to these business opportunities. This gives aspiring entrepreneurs a chance to try the industry before investing in a route—helping them gain valuable experience and confidence before purchasing a route of their own.

Our goal is to raise awareness of route-type businesses and create pathways for more people to enter and succeed in this rewarding and recession proof industry.