Uber introduces Courier Bakkie for South African Businesses

Uber has introduced a Courier Bakkie product offering to South African businesses, in what it claims to be a world first.

As part of the offering, the “Uber Package” product will be rebranded as “Courier” to streamline its transportation services to independent contractors via the Uber app.

The service will be available through fleet partners, such as SkyNet Worldwide Express to leverage its logistics expertise to the Courier Bakkie service.

The introduction of Courier Bakkie is a landmark achievement for Uber, as South Africa becomes the company’s first global market to offer heavy-load deliveries of items up to one tonne.

Initially launching in Johannesburg, the service will soon roll out to Cape Town and Durban. This development not only enhances the options available to Users but also creates new earning opportunities for drivers.

The company says when ysers open the Uber app and set a destination, they will now see the Courier Bakkie product under the Rides interface of the Uber app.

Mnotho Mtshali, senior operations manager for Uber Middle East and Africa says: “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.”

Uber adds that with the festive season fast approaching, Courier Bakkie will be available for 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 company says its 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.”