Freight services are a key component of the economy. However, it can be a tough industry for companies to break into. This is due to the trust larger corporations have built with the public over the decades. Shipping goods can also be expensive, which discourages new businesses. But, some companies risk it anyway. One of these companies is Uber, which launched Uber Freight in 2017 and expanded in 2020.
As the demand for essential goods grew, the pandemic directly impacted the transit of these goods. Uber Freight is working to help elevate some of the continuing supply chain issues. They are doing this by hiring even more drivers and collaborating with companies to deliver essential goods. In fact, since mid-2020 Uber Freight has delivered more than 1 billion pounds of essential supplies, and medical equipment through North America. Many of these deliveries were also donated by Uber.
Uber Freight operates 24/7, so shippers can price, schedule, and track deliveries at any time. The digital network of carriers can provide services at any hour, in almost any location. All of the employees are able to work from home, as all booking and operating systems are cloud-based. This technology-first approach allows all processes to be completed remotely.
Similar to how the standard Uber app works, Uber Freight connects truck drivers with cargo that needs transporting. The process allows shippers to select the best pricing and track the goods from pickup to delivery. This allows for greater transparency during the shipping process. This in turn creates trust and reliability, ensuring that shippers continue to use the app. Additionally, drivers for Uber Freight are paid within a week, which is much better than the traditional 90-day contracts that are common in the industry.
As Uber Freight works to establish itself in the shipping industry, they are adding more features and benefits to its service offerings. Some of these are;
The Powerloop feature is currently only available in California, Oklahoma, and Texas, with plans to roll it out across North America. This feature allows carriers to access pre-loaded trailers, cutting load times down. This also helps to reduce any unexpected delays at pick up and drop off as the trailer is pre-loaded. Additionally, carriers can utilize Powerloop pickups to find backhauls easily.
This feature gives carriers access to a range of growing discounts and benefits. Currently, the Plus plan gives the following discounts to carriers
As a small business, consider utilizing Uber Freight for your shipments. Though relatively new to the shipping industry, Uber is making a name for itself here. Additionally, as a shipper you can avoid hidden fees and contracts, which can save you time and money.
