Problems and Improvement Strategies in Working Time Management for Food Delivery Platform Riders

Abstract

Working time management is an important part of food delivery platform operations. Digital platforms organize riders’ work through order allocation, delivery time estimation, route planning, and performance evaluation. These methods improve delivery efficiency but also create problems in working time recognition, workload control, rest arrangements, and management responsibility. Riders often spend time waiting for orders, handling restaurant delays, and remaining available for assignments, yet these activities may not be adequately reflected in working time records. Strict delivery deadlines and income incentives can also increase work intensity and encourage extended working hours. This paper examines the characteristics of riders’ working time and identifies the main problems in platform management. It analyzes the organizational factors contributing to these problems and their effects on riders and platform operations. Improvements are proposed in working time classification, delivery scheduling, rest management, performance evaluation, and responsibility allocation. Effective working time management should recognize actual working conditions, establish reasonable delivery requirements, and provide riders with greater opportunities to communicate with platform managers. These measures can help reduce excessive work pressure, improve operational coordination, and support sustainable platform management.