Uber has discreetly begun testing a function that allows gig workers to pick up prepaid products from local businesses and deliver them to Indian consumers.
Eltrys exclusively reported that “Store Pickup,” launched in select U.S. cities in December, has extended to Delhi-NCR. Customers can arrange pickups and deliveries and follow them live on the Uber app, like trips.
Uber’s Store Pickup may compete with Indian platforms like Dunzo, Rapido, and Swiggy, which provide similar services to gather packages from local retailers. The current update offers another option. It shows that Uber sees an economic possibility in delivering things from local merchants in India, similar to in the U.S. The functionality also helps Uber integrate into consumers’ daily lives.
Store pickup has various drawbacks. For instance, the local store pickup item must weigh less than five kilos (11 lbs). It should be worth up to 5,000 Indian rupees ($60) and may be collected without ID or a credit or debit card. Delivery of alcohol, narcotics, guns, or “dangerous or illegal items” is prohibited.
Uber wouldn’t comment.
Before starting deliveries, Uber needs consumers to submit the local business name, location, and pickup instructions for the driver, such as whether to pick up from a customer service area. Consumers may submit proof of purchase and order confirmation numbers to help drivers complete pickups.
Uber’s Connect service lets users send items using its app in addition to Store Pickup. The shop pickup service arranges local shop deliveries only.
Uber debuted Store Pickup in 1,700 U.S. cities and towns last year, including Austin, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Orange County, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Antonio, San Francisco, and Tampa Bay. Some cities had UberRUSH, a same-day local delivery service that ended in 2018.
