News sponsored by the Samsung Galaxy S22 series:

Uber has announcd that South Africans are now able to send even larger packages across town with Uber’s on-demand delivery solution, Uber Connect Car. This is due to the success of Connect Moto, which allows users to request that their packages be delivered using motorbike delivery via the Uber app. Uber Connect Moto was launched in 2020 and is now available in six countries across Sub Saharan Africa (SSA). 

Whether it’s a special gift for a loved one, much-needed groceries or clothes, the service allows caters to the delivery of each. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs)  are also able to request an Uber Connect Car trip via the Uber app to transport small boxes, multiple larger goods or make several deliveries up to 80kg.

Motorbike delivery will remain an option for smaller packages under 15kg, with over 200 000 unique users across SSA making use of this delivery option each month. Timothy Kiluba, Head of Core Operations at Uber Sub Saharan Africa explains, “We have been thrilled with the demand of Uber Connect and have seen all types of users, including SMBs such as restaurants, bakeries, parcel delivery companies and online retail shops using the platform. Given this huge demand, it made sense to launch Uber Connect Car to accommodate larger packages.” 

Uber Connect also comes with two new features that will enhance the delivery experience. In response to a strong customer need Uber has witnessed, concurrent trips are now available, meaning users can send multiple packages to different destinations at the same time. In addition, proof of delivery via PIN will be rolled out. The PIN provides users with peace of mind that their package is being delivered to the right person, allowing for ease of reference where there are multiple deliveries. 

While this new launch is exciting for users, drivers are also expected to see the advantages. “At a time when we need more opportunities that allow people to be more economically independent, we believe Uber and other platforms can be a bridge to a sustainable economic recovery. The launch will enable drivers to alternate between picking up riders and making deliveries, unlocking more earning opportunities and choices for drivers,"continued Kiluba.

How does Uber Connect Car work?

1. Open the Uber app, tap ‘Where to’ and enter your drop-off location.
2. Select Uber Connect Car in the Uber app, agree to the terms and conditions, confirm that your package does not contain prohibited items, and request a delivery.
3. Meet the driver outside and load your package into their boot.*
4. Share the trip with your recipient so they can track the trip and meet the driver outside to retrieve the package from the driver’s boot.

The company stressed that safety remains a top priority for all trips requested on both Uber Connect Moto and Uber Connect Car and drivers, senders and recipients are required to follow all relevant hygiene and safety protocols.  These include the requirement of masks for all drivers, as well as the completion of a safety checklist that reminds drivers to wash their hands and sanitise their relevant delivery bags. Senders and recipients will also need to follow a checklist to ensure social distancing measures are followed.

Packages sent using Uber Connect Car must total less than the equivalent of R1,500 in value per trip, be less than or equal to 80 kilograms, and fit comfortably in the boot of a mid-sized sedan. Prohibited items include but are not limited to: medication, recreational drugs, and dangerous or illegal items. If the recipient is not available to receive the package, the driver may contact you to resolve the issue. Uber does not maintain insurance coverage for package loss, damage, or theft. Please see terms and conditions for full details.