Uber Bakkie service launches in South Africa

Uber is rolling out a courier service that allows its app users to request a bakkie to transport large items and cargo weighing up to a tonne — a world-first Uber product launching in South Africa.

This is accessible on the Uber Package section of the app, which has been rebranded as Courier.

“South Africans love their bakkies because they are practical, versatile and make it easy to haul larger items,” said Uber’s Middle East and Africa senior operations manager Mnotho Mtshali.

“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 has said that the service will first be rolled out in Johannesburg, with availability in Cape Town and Durban to follow soon.

When selecting a destination, users will be able to select “Courier Bakkie” under the rides section.

The logistics platform has said that users will be able to transport anything from furniture, to catering supplies and large appliances.

It has also geared the the service towards the needs of small and medium sized enterprises that have frequent delivery needs, but limited resources to do so.

“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.

“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,” Uber noted.

Uber has partnered with local courier company SkyNet Worldwide Express to offer the Courier Bakkie service, which the American firm has said will ensure safe and intact delivery thanks to theiur decades of experience.