Uber has launched its Courier Bakkie product offering to drivers and users of the Uber App, effectively rebranding the “Uber Package” product as “Courier”, to better align with the growing range of transportation services.
South Africa is Uber’s first global market to offer users the ability to request the delivery of heavy items up to one tonne.
Johannesburg residents will be the first to get access to Courier Bakkies, with Cape Town and Durban to follow soon.
“South Africans love their bakkies because they are practical, versatile and make it easy to haul larger items. We are glad to grow our product offering, which has already seen significant uptake on the delivery of smaller packages like documentation or forgotten personal items,” says Mnotho Mtshali, senior operations manager for Uber Middle East and Africa.
With the festive season fast approaching, Courier Bakkie will be available for you to request to transport anything from furniture to catering supplies and large appliances, as families prepare for celebrations and gatherings.
“This is perfectly timed for those who need to get things done quickly while balancing all that life throws at us during this time of year,” adds Mtshali.
The larger utility vehicles will also lend a helping hand to small-to-medium-sized businesses that have frequent delivery needs and limited resources to move assets between branches or heavier items to customers. From car parts to building materials and more, this offering will empower more South African entrepreneurs to spend less time completing deliveries and focus on growing their businesses.
“We care deeply about supporting small businesses and Courier Bakkie is another way we are showing up for entrepreneurs who are creating essential jobs on a daily basis,” says Mtshali.
Uber has partnered with fleet partners like SkyNet Worldwide Express to ensure heavy goods are delivered safely, intact and on time.