Uber Launches a New Offering Under its Courier Category
Uber launches a new offering under its courier category to allow customers to transport large goods, powered by three and four-wheeled goods carriers. Courier XL will operate within its Uber Courier division, the US company's package delivery service, utilizing bikes and two-wheelers in India.
As stated by the company, deliveries made with this feature saw a 50 percent year-on-year growth in 2024, showing a steady increase in usage in the initial three months of this year.
The updated feature will keep utilizing current technology and offer users the same features found in Uber Courier, such as live tracking, transparent pricing, and booking through the Uber app.
“Courier XL is our answer to a growing demand from users, especially small businesses and households, who need a reliable way to move heavier goods across the city. Whether it’s inventory, furniture, or large parcels, we’re making big moves simpler and smarter,” says Shiva Shailendran, Director - Consumer & Growth, Uber India South Asia.
The move also puts the ride-hailing company in direct competition with other delivery startups including Porter, one of the largest players in the industry.
Moreover, Uber’s entry into the space also comes as Swiggy shut down its hyperlocal delivery service, Genie, earlier this month citing operational issues.
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Several logistics startups have faced similar challenges to sustain operations due to issues such as poor technology integration and an inability to address the needs of both shippers and fleet owners. For instance, Dunzo, which began as a hyperlocal delivery service, eventually shut down its operations this year.