FAQ

FAQ

A city street with several cars and pedestrians, including a cyclist wearing a pink helmet and a backpack, on a clear day with modern buildings and construction cranes in the background.

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers to the most frequently asked questions for new riders, partners and more!

General

  • All riders must complete an online application form, have their own bicycle and appropriate carrying accessories to complete their deliveries. You must be at least 18 years old to do a delivery.

  • Bike Brigade riders deliver everything from prepared meals, food essentials, medications, pet food and other essential items to people who are unable to pick up these items themselves.

  • We are currently servicing roughly the former City of Toronto, stretching from Runnymede in the west, to the Beaches in the east, and up to Eglinton to the north in the west side and up to O'Connor on the east side.

    West: Runnymede

    North: Eglinton west of DVP, O'Connor east of DVP

    South: Lake

    East: Victoria Park

  • Click here for our Code of Conduct!

For Riders

  • Once you have completed your application, you will be added to our weekly email reminder to sign up. Sign up sheets are live on Sundays.

    Deliveries are sent the night prior to your ride via the Bike Brigade App. The app makes it easy to plan your delivery, contact the recipient and reach out the the Bike Brigade if you have any questions.

  • The Rider Portal features easy ways for you to sign up, track your delivery details, and participate in some friendly competition!

    Please note: some deliveries / campaigns use a spreadsheet sign up system rather than the rider portal for sign up. Once the logistics team has officially assigned your delivery, you’ll be able to see those deliveries on the rider portal in your itinerary too.

  • You let us know what load you can carry on your bike when you complete your form.

    Order size can vary. Below are estimates of carrying loads for typical deliveries. You can also check out delivery size photos under campaign sign ups in the portal.

    6 prepared meals = personal backpack

    Small grocery orders = personal backpack + double saddle bags

    Large grocery orders (8-10 bags) = cargo trailer

  • Send us a text and let us know that you’re OK. If you need to cancel your ride, we’ll work to find an alternate rider to complete the delivery.

  • The Bike Brigade strives to provide timely and reliable deliveries to our community members. Volunteer riders are expected to notify the Logistics Team via text message to the Bike Brigade number and/or email info@bikebrigade.ca promptly if they are unable to complete a delivery, need to cancel, or encounter any other issue that prevents them from fulfilling their assigned delivery commitment.

    If a rider experiences repeated issues with deliveries, including but not limited to missed deliveries without notification, they may be asked not to sign up for deliveries. The specific action will be determined on a case-by-case basis. We are open to working collaboratively with riders to understand and address any underlying issues by opening a dialogue and exploring support resources. The Bike Brigade is committed to both supporting our riders and ensuring timely deliveries for our community members.

Delivery 101

  • For your first delivery, you can find all of the details in the text message sent from our app. Click on the link in the text to find: pick up address, delivery address, recipient contact details.

    Be sure to scroll to the notes section for any special instructions for delivery.

    We recommend having a few extra grocery bags with you, just in case you need to re-pack any food.

    Have questions? Simply reply to your dispatch text and we’ll help you out!

  • Every campaign is different.

    We recommend that you contact your recipient prior to your departure to let them know you’re on the way.

    If they do not reply to your text, try giving them a call, as not all recipients have access to text services.

    Upon arrival, if you still cannot reach the recipient you may:

    1. Leave the delivery in a safe location, if available (i.e. the porch or in front of the door)

    2. Text us and we can help you find a solution.

    On occasion you may be asked to return the delivery.

  • Deliveries come in all shapes and sizes.

    It is important to pack your delivery so that the food is safe (watch out for the eggs!). It is also important to be sure that your delivery is safe for you when you’re riding.

    Avoid: hanging bags on your handlebars.

    If you cannot fit your delivery safely on your bike, you can usually make 2 trips! When in doubt, text us and we’ll help you out!

For Partners

  • The Bike Brigade works with community-based organizations to reach communities across the city.

  • Most deliveries are during the day However some may be completed in the evenings. Many organizations are flexible.

    You can sign up for rides that suit your schedule every Sunday here.

  • If you would like to become a partner with Bike Brigade, please email us.