FAQ

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, be COVID-19 symptom free, have their own bicycle and appropriate carrying accessories to complete their deliveries.
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

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.
We’ve updated our dispatch app! The new Rider Portal features easy ways for you to sign up, track your delivery details and participate in some friendly competition!
The rider portal will replace the current spreadsheet sign up system. You’ll be able to see all available deliveries in one place and sign up.
Please note: we are transitioning from the spreadsheets to the app gradually between May - June 2024. If you don’t see some campaigns in the portal, check the spreadsheet.
Check it out here.
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.
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.

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!

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.