Uber Delivery works through the Uber app and sends your package via an Uber driver, not through Uber Eats
Uber Delivery (sometimes called Uber Connect in certain cities) lets you send packages to another person using the same app you use for rides. You pack the item yourself, set a pickup and dropoff location, and an Uber driver picks it up and delivers it. The service is available in select cities, and not every location in a city may be covered. You pay a flat fee based on distance, and the driver handles the delivery — you do not meet them in person unless you choose to.
This is different from Uber Eats, which is for food orders from restaurants. Uber Delivery is for personal packages: documents, gifts, clothing, electronics, or anything else that fits in a car and is legal to transport. The package stays in the driver's vehicle during transit, so it should be something you are comfortable with that level of handling.
Key Takeaways
- Uber Delivery is only available in certain cities and neighborhoods, so you need to check your app first to see if the service shows up in your area.
- You pack the item yourself and describe what you are sending, but you do not need to be present when the driver picks it up if you arrange a safe spot.
- The driver can see your package but cannot open it, and you can track the delivery in real time through the app.
- Pricing is based on distance and demand, and you pay upfront before the driver accepts the job.
- The service works best for items that fit in a standard car and are not fragile, perishable, or restricted by law.
How to send a package step by step
Open the Uber app and tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner. Look for "Deliver" or "Send" — the exact label varies by city. If you do not see this option, the service is not available in your area. Tap it to start a new delivery request.
Enter the pickup address (where the package is now) and the dropoff address (where it needs to go). The app will show you the estimated fee and delivery time. If the price is acceptable, tap to confirm. You will see a map and a timer as the app looks for a nearby driver.
Once a driver accepts, you will get their name, photo, and vehicle details. You can message them through the app if you need to give special instructions — for example, "Package is on the porch, please ring the bell" or "Leave it with the doorman." The driver will arrive at the pickup location within the estimated window.
When the driver arrives, hand them the package or direct them to where it is. You can watch the delivery progress on the map in real time. The driver will confirm delivery at the destination, and you will get a notification when it is complete.
What you need to prepare before requesting a delivery
Pack your item in a bag or box that is clearly closed. The driver will not open it, but they will see it and handle it during the drive. If the item is fragile, wrap it well or use a sturdy container. Avoid sending anything that is liquid, perishable, or could leak — the driver's car is not climate-controlled for food or temperature-sensitive goods.
Write down or have ready the recipient's full name and phone number. The driver may call or text to confirm the delivery, especially if the address is unclear or if they cannot find the building. Make sure the address you enter is complete and accurate — incomplete addresses cause delays and failed deliveries.
Know the size and weight of your package. Uber Delivery has limits on what fits in a standard car. Most items that fit in a backpack or small suitcase are fine. If you are unsure, take a photo and compare it to a car trunk or back seat.
Pricing and payment
Uber Delivery charges a flat fee per delivery, not per pound or item. The fee depends on the distance between pickup and dropoff and current demand in your area. During busy times, surge pricing may apply, and the fee will be higher. You see the total cost before you confirm the request, so there are no surprises.
You pay through the payment method linked to your Uber account — credit card, debit card, or Uber Cash. The charge goes through immediately when you confirm the delivery, not when the driver completes it. If a driver cancels after accepting, you may be refunded depending on how long they held the job.
Tipping is optional and can be added in the app after the delivery is complete. Unlike ride requests, you cannot tip before the driver arrives.
What items you can and cannot send
You can send most personal items: documents, gifts, clothing, books, electronics, small furniture, and household goods. The item must fit in a car and be something a driver can safely carry from the pickup point to the dropoff point.
Do not send anything illegal, hazardous, or restricted. This includes weapons, explosives, drugs, large amounts of cash, or anything that requires special licensing to transport. Do not send perishable food, ice cream, or anything that needs to stay frozen or refrigerated. Do not send live animals. Do not send items that are extremely fragile unless they are packed very securely — the driver is not a professional mover, and the car will experience normal road vibration.
If you are unsure whether something is allowed, check the Uber app's terms or contact Uber support through the app before you request a delivery. Sending a prohibited item can result in cancellation and a fee.
Tracking and communication with the driver
Once a driver accepts your delivery, you can see their location on a live map in the app. You can watch them drive to the pickup location, then to the dropoff location. The map updates every few seconds, so you know exactly where your package is at all times.
You can message the driver through the app at any point during the delivery. Use this to give directions, clarify the pickup location, or ask them to take a photo of the delivery. The driver will see your message and can reply. Do not call or text their personal number — use only the in-app messaging.
The driver will confirm delivery by taking a photo or marking it complete in the app. You will receive a notification and can see the photo if one was taken. If there is a problem — the driver cannot find the location, the recipient is not home, or the package is damaged — the driver will message you through the app.
What to do if delivery fails or the driver cancels
If the driver cancels after accepting your request, you will be notified in the app. You can request a new delivery right away, and the fee will be the same (unless surge pricing has changed). If you cancel after a driver has accepted, you may be charged a cancellation fee depending on how far along the delivery was.
If the driver arrives at the pickup location and cannot find your package or you, they will message you through the app. Respond quickly with directions or a photo of where the package is. If you do not respond within a few minutes, the driver may cancel the delivery.
If the delivery is marked complete but the recipient says they never received it, contact Uber support through the app. Provide the delivery confirmation number and explain what happened. Uber will investigate and may issue a refund or reattempt the delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Uber Delivery available in my city?
Uber Delivery is not available everywhere. Open the Uber app, tap the menu, and look for "Deliver" or "Send." If you do not see it, the service is not yet available in your area. Availability varies by city and neighborhood, and new areas are added over time.
Can I send a package to someone I do not know?
Yes. You enter the recipient's address and phone number, and the driver delivers to that location. The recipient does not need to have an Uber account. Make sure the address and phone number are correct so the driver can reach them if needed.
What happens if the package is damaged during delivery?
Uber Delivery does not cover damage to items inside the package. The driver is responsible for safe handling, but standard car transport is not the same as professional shipping. If damage occurs, contact Uber support with photos and the delivery confirmation number, and they will review your case.
Can the driver refuse to deliver my package?
Yes. If the driver arrives and believes the package contains something illegal, hazardous, or prohibited, they can refuse to complete the delivery. If this happens, you will be notified and may lose the delivery fee. To avoid this, only send items that are clearly legal and safe.
How long does delivery usually take?
Delivery time depends on distance and traffic. The app shows an estimated delivery window when you request the delivery — typically 30 minutes to an hour for local deliveries. During rush hour or in heavy traffic, it may take longer. You can watch the driver's progress on the map.