Uber ventures into package delivery services - Uber Expands Operations into Package Delivery
Uber Expands Services to Courier Delivery in Germany
In a strategic move beyond ride-hailing and food delivery services, Uber has introduced "Uber Courier," a new service mediating the transport of goods in Germany. Initially available in Berlin, Cologne, Munich, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Hannover, Stuttgart, and Mannheim, the service is also operational in the United Kingdom.
For the courier service, Uber will leverage its existing network of delivery partners. Depending on the size and distance of the shipment, couriers may utilize bicycles or cars. The maximum weight for individual items is set at 20 kilograms, with a total limit of 60 kilograms that must fit into a mid-size car's trunk. The costs for "Uber Courier," displayed in the app beforehand, are based on driving time and distance.
Serving both individuals and local businesses, the service aims to provide a quick and efficient means for same-day deliveries within cities. Germany CEO Christoph Weigler underscores the potential for small businesses to benefit from this new option.
Uber's move into the courier business presents a hint of competition with logistics companies, while its relationship with the traditional taxi industry remains nuanced. Uber has previously collaborated with several taxi companies in Germany to expand its presence, with around 20 percent of taxis in cities like Berlin currently cooperating with Uber.
The expansion of Uber's services beyond ride-hailing and food delivery is anticipated to support local businesses by offering a convenient and efficient intra-city delivery option, contributing to the logistics infrastructure in Germany.
In the expansion of services, Uber's new courier service, Uber Courier, utilizes technology to leverage its existing network for transporting goods within cities, potentially challenging logistics companies while maintaining collaborative relationships with taxi firms. The policy ensures a maximum weight limit of 60 kilograms for items, catering to both individuals and local businesses, thus enhancing the environment by reducing traffic congestion and promoting a more efficient urban environment.
