Uber offers more and more possibilities for drivers to provide their services according to the needs of connected users. But often, the answers often lie in services that have been offered for some time, such as Uber Connect, one of those lesser-known Uber features (like Uber X) that is available but unknown to many.
This same-day direct delivery feature became very popular during the COVID-19 pandemic and while it has lost fans, it is still available. While this will depend on the area you are in, some users in the United States continue to take advantage of this mode of delivery.
How do I use Uber connect?
Although the Uber application began as a transportation service, in the rise of the pandemic and the years following it they have had to adapt a lot. That is why in the midst of the coronavirus attack they introduced the Uber Connect function that allows users to make same-day deliveries. That is, sending packages from a marked location to another chosen location without the need to go personally.
It was immediately seen as a solution for users who would no longer have to leave their homes to carry important packages. It was initially positioned in 25 major cities in the United States as a test to later grow along with Uber.
Step by step
The process of using Uber Connect is simple and not much different from traditional package shipping. With the distinction, of course, that you are paying for a personal delivery from one point to another. The step-by-step for using this service is as follows:
- Prepare your package making sure it’s secure
- Open the Uber app and head to the Uber Connect section, recognized by the image of a package (If available)
- Add the information regarding the shipment. For this, you will need: the pick-up address, package size, delivery address, and the name of the person who will receive the package
- Check the estimated shipping cost and confirm the order
- Wait for the confirmation of the application and the selection of a driver who is in the area
- Wait while the driver receives and delivers the package
- The recipient will be notified of the estimated delivery time
To be considered
The waiting time of the service usually depends on the characteristics of the service such as size, distance, and traffic as in standard transportation. However, Uber seeks that the time does not exceed 30 minutes at most. Likewise, this will depend on the client when choosing departure and arrival locations.
Another point to consider is the fact that Uber Connect has a list of products whose shipments are prohibited. This is looking to protect the integrity of both the user and the driver when transporting those products. In this list are:
- People
- Animals
- Firearms
- Alcoholic beverages
- Pharmaceutical products
- Food or vegetables that can be damaged
- Money or gift cards
- Recreational drugs
- Flammable material
- Fragile objects
- Stolen goods
This is why many drivers tend not to take risks with these types of jobs, but rather take those with established packages. This is because, for a while, there was a dangerous trend of sending prohibited items by Uber Connect.
Where is Uber Connect still available?
After its golden age in 2020 and 2021, Uber Connect has lost countless clients who have put the service on the back burner as the world goes back to normal. This has caused it to become a truly undervalued service in the public eye, with the potential to take advantage of real opportunities.
Following on from this, as is the case with all of Uber’s features, the transportation app is still constantly being updated to help its users. So, if this feature is not yet available in your area, it is likely that you will soon have it.
How much does Uber connect pay?
More than because of how much it pays, many Uber drivers at the time made the jump to Uber Connect because of the conveniences this service signifies; yes, while most are interested in Uber’s costs, others prefer the conveniences.
Allowing the driver to check the pickup and delivery points of the shipment in advance without hassle. Presenting them with the possibility to seriously choose which job they want to take and which they don’t.
Unlike with standard transportation services, the Uber Connect user can make their own schedule. Choosing which orders they will take and which they will not, assuming compliance with delivery times. Following on from the fact that the user will be able to cancel any delivery after having accepted it, if the product has not been picked up, of course.
References
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Wang, Joanna. “Uber Connect – Easier than Ever to Send Packages to Others | Uber Blog.” Uber Blog, https://www.uber.com/blog/uber-connect-ondemand-package-delivery/.