Uber Expands Courier Service to Handle Large Deliveries with 3- and 4-Wheelers

In a move that signals its growing ambitions in the logistics space, Uber has expanded its courier services to now include larger package deliveries using 3- and 4-wheeler vehicles. This development positions Uber as a stronger player in the last-mile delivery market, catering not just to small parcels and documents, but also to heavier and bulkier consignments across urban India.

With increasing demand for on-demand logistics—driven by e-commerce, small businesses, and consumer needs—Uber’s latest update brings both scale and versatility to its delivery offering.

What’s New with Uber Courier?

Previously, Uber’s courier service operated primarily using two-wheelers, ideal for fast deliveries of small items such as:

• Documents

• Electronics

• Small packages

• Food or groceries in limited quantities

Now, with the introduction of 3-wheelers (like auto-rickshaws) and 4-wheelers (mini trucks, hatchbacks, and sedans) into the fleet, Uber Courier can handle:

• Furniture and appliances

• Bulk grocery or wholesale goods

• Business consignments and retail restocks

• Multi-item deliveries for SMEs

This means both individuals and businesses now have the flexibility to move larger goods quickly within city limits—without needing to rely on conventional cargo services or local tempo operators.

Why the Expansion?

Uber’s decision to scale up courier operations comes at a time when urban logistics is undergoing massive transformation. Several key trends have influenced this shift:

1. E-Commerce Boom

With both B2C and B2B e-commerce growing at rapid pace, sellers—especially small and medium enterprises—need reliable, flexible delivery partners.

2. Consumer Expectations

Customers today expect same-day or next-day delivery, even for larger items. Uber’s network offers a faster alternative to traditional cargo players.

3. Idle Vehicle Utilization

Uber aims to leverage its existing driver-partner base and their vehicles more efficiently. This expansion opens up new income streams for partners with larger vehicles.

4. SME and Retail Demand

Local furniture dealers, hardware shops, event planners, and even florists often need on-demand logistics that are not always served well by legacy transporters.

How It Works

Users can access the service via the Uber app, under the "Package Delivery" or "Courier" section. Here’s how it typically functions:

1. Select Vehicle Type – Based on package size and weight

2. Enter Pickup & Drop Location

3. Schedule Time or Book Instantly

4. Share Delivery Details & Instructions

5. Real-Time Tracking + Proof of Delivery

The pricing is dynamic, based on distance, vehicle category, and time—similar to Uber rides.

For business customers, Uber is also offering bulk delivery options and route optimization features, helping brands streamline multiple drop-offs within one booking.

Cities Covered

While the rollout is gradual, Uber has started this service in major metro cities like:

• Mumbai

• Delhi NCR

• Bengaluru

• Hyderabad

• Chennai

• Pune

With successful adoption, the service is expected to expand into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in phases.

Impact on Gig Economy

This expansion is also a positive development for Uber’s driver-partner ecosystem. Operators of 3-wheelers and small four-wheelers now have:

• More earning opportunities

• Better vehicle utilization, especially during non-peak passenger hours

• Less dependency on passenger traffic for daily income

For drivers with personal-use vehicles (e.g., hatchbacks used for family), this offers a new way to earn flexibly during spare hours by doing delivery runs.

Competitive Advantage

Uber’s entry into the mid-to-large parcel space will now put it into competition with services like:

• Porter

• Dunzo for Business

• LoadShare

• Delhivery Lite

• Shadowfax (SME vertical)

However, Uber’s strength lies in its infrastructure:

• Pre-existing app ecosystem

• Massive driver network

• Familiar user interface

• Real-time GPS & route tracking

• End-to-end customer service

These elements give Uber a competitive edge in ease of adoption, especially among first-time logistics users.

For Whom Is This Most Useful?

• Furniture dealers who need same-day delivery

• Boutique stores and small manufacturers moving boxes between warehouses and stores

• Interior designers or decorators transporting multiple pieces

• Event vendors moving props and equipment

• Residential movers transporting personal items over short distances

• Students or urban renters shifting essentials between PGs or apartments

In short, anyone needing a trusted courier for items that are “too big for a bike, too small for a truck”.

Sustainability Considerations

Uber has also hinted at plans to integrate EVs (Electric Vehicles) into its delivery fleet in the near future. This aligns with its global sustainability goals and local regulations pushing for cleaner mobility.

Three-wheeler EVs and electric mini-trucks may become standard choices for urban courier services, cutting down on carbon emissions and fuel costs—benefiting both Uber and its partners.

Final Thoughts

Uber’s expansion of its courier service to include 3- and 4-wheeler deliveries is a strategic move that aligns with India’s evolving logistics landscape. By entering the mid-weight delivery segment, Uber bridges a gap between bike couriers and full-scale transporters—offering affordability, speed, and tech-enabled convenience.