Gotta Have It Now? On-The-Go Delivery Apps

As much as I try to convince myself (and others) that I have this whole time- management thing down, there are certainly occasions when plans go wrong and I’m scrambling for dinner, a gift, or a bite to eat on the run. Being a working, often- traveling mom certainly doesn’t help with my organization skills. These apps are my go-tos when I find myself in a pinch.

Delivery 24/7

Eat24 (free, iOS, Android) is the perfect app for college students, travelers and those who work odd hours. At any time of the day or night, you can search your local area and see what restaurants are open and whether or not they deliver. The app syncs with Yelp so you can get an idea of how other people have rated the food, and you can order, pay and track delivery without ever leaving the app. Admittedly, it makes it WAY too easy to order a pizza late at night, but when you’re traveling at odd hours or missed dinner, it’s an easy, fast way to get some grub.

Is It Already Your Birthday Again…

The H.Bloom Gifts app (free, iOS) was developed by the flower delivery company of the same name. Through the app, you can immediately order and send high-quality, thoughtful gifts to commemorate a special day. Think items like Sprinkles Cupcakes, Psycho Donuts, and of course, beautiful flower arrangements. You can add a message and order same-day hand delivery. This is a lifesaver for forgotten birthdays, anniversaries, or just a quick pick-me-up for a friend in need.

Stop Waiting In Line

It’s not always best practice, and sadly something I am trying to focus on (add it to the list of New Years Resolutions), but there are times when I’m just too busy to sit down and slowly eat a meal. That’s when I use the “Order Ahead” feature on the PayPal app (free, iOS, Android, Windows). It displays nearby venues that allow you to order ahead, and then brings up the menu and lets you place your order. Once the order has been submitted, it gives you an estimated time for when it will be ready for pickup. No need to worry about having to wait in line when you get there, as the payment is made immediately with your PayPal account. I just walk right in the restaurant or take-out place, and they have my order waiting for me on the counter. My favorite place to do this is Jamba Juice, but there are tons of eateries available.

Need it Now, Get it Now

Your computer charger is lost but your kid is sleeping so you can’t run out and buy a new one. Your blender just broke but you’re still in the middle of cooking for a dinner party tonight. No need to panic, eBay Now (free, iPhone, Android) is here for you. This app delivers items from local retailers to your door in about an hour. Once online you can choose from a list of big-box retailers, such as Target, Best Buy, and Home Depot. A courier (let’s call them your angel for the day) traveling by foot, bicycle, car or taxi will personally deliver the items to you. Delivery is just $5 per order, with a $25 order minimum. For now the service is only available in San Francisco, New York, Chicago and San Jose, but will expand to 25 additional cities soon.