Uber has announced the launch of Connect, a delivery tech solution that enables users to send packages and request deliveries through the Uber app.
Falling under Uber’s global pledge to help people Move What Matters during COVID-19, Egypt is the first country to roll out the product in MENA to support locals as the country coexists with the virus.
Uber Connect is launching with 2 types of services: one where users can send packages to and from friends and family, and the second one is a stop and shop service, where drivers can pick up deliveries on behalf of the users from nearby stores. Facilitating users’ day-to-day activities through the app, Uber Connect aims to keep users connected while encouraging social distancing.
The company has been proactively looking for ways to create more demand for current drivers, aiming to increase the earnings of those who have been impacted by the pandemic lockdown.
Therefore, as an on-demand service, deliveries facilitated via Uber Connect are carried out on the same day by Uber Scooter drivers. Scooter drivers who choose to opt-in will now be able to receive delivery requests as well as the usual rider commute requests.
“This is a proud moment for us as we add a new service to our app in Egypt, and is another first in the MENA region. Uber Connect has been designed to ease senders’ daily errands, while empowering drivers with new earning opportunities.
“By launching Uber Connect, we are taking a step forward to accelerate our efforts to keep our community safe, which has been our goal since the start of COVID-19. Our role as a technology company won’t stop here; we will continue to evolve to effectively and sustainably define the new normal during this unprecedented time,” said Ahmed Khalil, General Manager of Uber in Egypt.
Uber Connect is accessible as a product option when opening the Uber app following these steps:
- Open the Uber app and in the pick up box, put in the location where the driver will load the package
- In the destination box, add in the package drop off location
- Choose “Connect” from the vehicle options to request
- Once the driver arrives, load the package into their backpack and/or secured compartment
- Share the trip with the recipient so they can track the package and meet the driver to retrieve it when it arrives.
Packages must be under 10KG or under EGP1000 in value and securely sealed by senders for a successful delivery.
Senders can also ask couriers to purchase groceries, laundry pick-up, or other small items on their behalf via Uber Connect. Here’s how it works:
- Contact the store first to make sure the order is ready for pick up.
- Open the Uber app and put the store as the pickup point.
- Add the drop off location
- Choose “Connect” from the vehicle options to request
- Once the driver arrives at the designated store, he will pick up the sender’s order and will deliver it to the destination
- Senders must pay the drivers for the purchased items in cash upon delivery and the trip fare can be paid in cash or through credit cards
- Total value of items to be purchased on senders behalf should not exceed 500 EGP.
Uber Connect is now available in Egypt following its successful introduction to more than 25 cities in Australia, Mexico, Canada and the US.
