Jobs Simply

Newspaper routes?

I have been looking for a part time job to earn a bit of money while I'm not in school. My local newspaper has about 8 different newspaper routes listed. Has anyone done one of these before? The listings say the routes take about 2 hours early morning. Do they supply you with everything you need, And what is the pay like?

Public Comments

1. This could refer to two different kinds of things depending on what the newspaper is looking for. First, the route could be to fill newspaper dispensing machines at various locations (usually businesses). If this is the case you'll be provided with papers and keys to the machines. You'd travel to the locations, open the dispenser, remove any old papers, then load up the new ones. This type of delivery is very straight forward and requires little actual work. Second, the traditional paper route going door-to-door in the morning. You'll be provided with the necessary supplies but it's typically up to you to roll them up and bag them if necessary. Additionally, there may be additional guidelines you'll be expected to follow to protect a customer's paper during inclimate weather (snow, rain, etc). The pay involved is typically not too great. It's not likely that you'll see more than 9 to 10 dollars per hours even with a large paper. Depending on the size of the paper you may not even be reimbursed for travel expenses. Additionally, you'll have to travel to the newspaper's office to pick up your supply of papers but you may have to prep them at home. Furthermore, when they say early morning that could mean as early as 2:00 am not including travel time to pick up the papers. I knew one individual who had to get up at 1:30 am to pick up papers by 2:00 am, have them prepped for delivery by 3:00 and delivered by 4:00 am, finally getting home about 4:30 am. It all depends on the paper. Finally, keep in mind this is a 7 day a week job and would include weekends and holidays. Depending on company policy you may not be entitled to vacation time off unless you can personally arrange for someone to cover your route while you're gone. For the most part it's a simple job and can be good addition to a future resume showing future employers that you are hardworking and responsible. Unfortunately, only you can decide if it's actually worth it or not.