California Burger Lovers Turn to Underground Market for In-N-Out Delivery

Californians seeking In-N-Out burgers without enduring the chain's notoriously long lines are increasingly turning to an unofficial underground market for delivery. Despite In-N-Out's long-standing policy against third-party delivery apps and advance orders, a network of independent couriers has emerged, advertising their services on platforms like Facebook Marketplace and others dedicated to gig work.

This burgeoning delivery economy has been highlighted by reports that individuals are offering to fetch burgers, fries, and shakes for a fee, filling a void intentionally left open by the fast-food chain. Platforms such as Airtasker have even featured a dedicated section for In-N-Out delivery services in California.

Customers have reportedly paid significant sums for these unauthorized deliveries. One customer in Santa Clara allegedly paid $100 for two cheeseburgers and two fries. In another instance, a Los Angeles resident recovering from surgery paid $40 for In-N-Out to be delivered to their home.

In-N-Out, under the leadership of CEO Lynsi Snyder, has historically resisted integrating with modern delivery services. The company has taken legal action in the past, including a lawsuit against DoorDash in 2015, to prevent unauthorized couriers from handling its food, citing concerns over maintaining freshness and quality. Snyder has publicly stated that such modern delivery methods detract from the customer service and hospitality experience that In-N-Out aims to provide.

Despite the company's stance, freelance couriers are establishing themselves in various parts of California, from Hollywood to Orange County and Santa Barbara. These individuals, often motivated by their own enjoyment of the burgers or the opportunity for a side hustle, charge a premium for their service. One courier reportedly offers a flat fee of $20 per delivery, with surcharges for larger orders.

However, engaging with this unofficial delivery network carries risks. Some customers have reported instances of fraud, where couriers take upfront payment and then fail to deliver the food or disappear entirely after receiving the deposit. In one documented case, reporters who attempted to use the service found that the seller took a $25 Zelle deposit and then blocked them without fulfilling the order.