You can now deliver customer orders in an Uber

When most of us think of Uber, we picture taxis and takeaways. But now, the ride-hailing app is expanding its repertoire with a new Courier service.

Uber Courier is designed for when you need to send or receive something urgently. Already live in nine UK cities, the service is set to reach 20 by the end of summer, with London on the list for later this year. 

While it’s ideal for personal mishaps, such as forgetting your house keys or ordering a last-minute birthday gift, Uber Courier could also be game-changing for small ecommerce businesses under increasing pressure to offer same-day or next-day delivery.

What is Uber Courier, and how does it work?

You’ll find Uber Courier in the existing app. It’s Uber’s latest solution for users to arrange on-demand, item-by-item deliveries.

The service is currently available in nine UK cities: Sheffield, Edinburgh, Stoke, Glasgow, Leicester, Oxford, Belfast, Northampton, and Hull. 

A wider rollout is planned over the summer, with additional cities including Brighton, Cambridge, Cardiff, Newcastle, Birmingham, and Leeds. Londoners will have to hold on until the end of 2025.

Courier is designed to be simple, following a five-step process of book, describe, confirm, track, and verify.

Users start by selecting the ‘Courier’ option in the app, then enter the pick-up and drop-off locations, just like ordering a ride. They’re then asked to provide a brief description of the item, which must weigh less than 15 pounds and be valued at under £200. Once confirmed, the delivery can be tracked in real time. To complete the handoff, the recipient is required to enter a PIN code, to confirm their identity.

Features such as live tracking and PIN verification are intended to add a level of security, which is particularly useful for time-sensitive or valuable items. 

Why small businesses might benefit from Courier

Uber Courier might be a lifesaver for the forgetful, but it’s also a smart opportunity for small ecommerce businesses. With no contracts or setup costs, it offers a flexible, scalable delivery option, ideal for those without an existing logistics plan in place. Smaller retailers can dip their toes into home delivery with minimal overheads or long-term commitment.

For example, a small Etsy seller can now offer same-day delivery for thoughtful handmade gifts. It’s a win-win, as customers aren’t stuck with last-minute options from the petrol station, while independent businesses can build stronger connections with local shoppers.

Courier makes it easier for small businesses to fulfil urgent online orders, reach local VIP customers, or experiment with same-day delivery, without the need for national infrastructure.

As Andrew Brem, General Manager at Uber UK, explained: “Courier is designed for those moments when something just needs to get done, but you can’t get to it yourself.

“By offering an easy, reliable way to send and receive items, Courier helps people and small businesses reclaim valuable time for what matters most.”

Will Uber Courier reshape last-mile delivery?

As a culture of immediacy takes hold, the demand for ultra-convenience is becoming the norm. Thanks in no small part to the “Amazon effect”, same-day delivery is no longer a bonus, but an expectation. 

For small businesses, delivery options like Uber Courier offer a way to keep up with rising demands without breaking the bank.

There’s also something to be said for the personal touch. Quick, local delivery can help independents forge stronger relationships with their customers while keeping costs minimal.

That said, some quick-commerce giants, like Just Eat, haven’t always had the best track record when it comes to working with small business partners. Small businesses may want to tread carefully before handing the reins over to Uber Courier. 

It’s crucial to do your homework. Check customer feedback, service efficiency, and how different delivery options align with your brand values. 

Uber is also not the only option. Rivals like Packfleet are also stepping up their game with tech-enabled, carbon-neutral delivery services tailored specifically for small businesses. 

Dubbed “the antidote to Amazon,” Packfleet champions sustainable and ethical values, which may be a better fit for sellers looking to partner with a fellow local business.