Uber Package is Uber's service for sending parcels and documents across your city

Uber Package (sometimes called Uber Connect in certain cities) lets you send items to someone else using Uber's driver network. You request a delivery through the Uber app, a driver picks up your package from one location, and drops it at another. The service works within your city or metro area — not for long-distance shipping. You pay a per-delivery fee that varies by distance, time of day, and how busy the service is in your area.

The service is different from food delivery or ride-sharing. You are not sending a package to an Uber office or warehouse; a driver comes to your pickup location, collects the item, and takes it directly to the recipient. Delivery usually takes 30 minutes to a few hours depending on distance and driver availability.

Key Takeaways

  • Uber Package works only within your city or metro area, not for cross-country or international shipping.
  • You request a delivery through the Uber app, set the pickup and dropoff addresses, and pay a distance-based fee before the driver arrives.
  • Drivers are independent contractors, not Uber employees, and they use their own vehicles to transport your package.
  • The service does not insure packages against loss or damage, so you should not send high-value items, cash, or anything irreplaceable.

How to send a package through Uber

Open the Uber app and select the delivery option (labeled "Uber Connect" or "Package" depending on your city). Enter the pickup address (usually your current location), the dropoff address, and a description of what you are sending. The app will show you the estimated fee and delivery time. Confirm the order and payment method, and a driver will be assigned within minutes.

You do not need to be at the pickup location yourself — you can send a package from a friend's house, a workplace, or anywhere else. The driver will text or call when they arrive. Have the package ready and hand it directly to the driver. You can track the delivery in real time through the app, just as you would with food delivery.

What you can and cannot send

Uber Package allows everyday items: documents, small furniture, groceries, clothing, books, electronics, and similar parcels. The package must fit in a standard car (roughly the size of a large suitcase or small piece of furniture). Weight limits vary by city but typically max out around 50 pounds.

You cannot send cash, weapons, hazardous materials, perishable food without insulation, live animals, or anything illegal. Uber's terms also prohibit items that require special handling or temperature control, though some cities have expanded services for groceries and prepared food. Do not send anything valuable or irreplaceable — Uber does not insure packages, and the company's liability for loss or damage is minimal.

Pricing and payment

Uber charges per delivery based on distance, time of day, and current demand. A short delivery across town might cost $5 to $15; a longer one could run $20 to $40 or more. Surge pricing applies during busy hours, so the same delivery might cost more at 6 p.m. than at 2 p.m. The app shows the exact fee before you confirm the order.

You pay through the payment method linked to your Uber account — credit card, debit card, or Uber Cash. Tipping is optional but encouraged, and you can add a tip through the app after the delivery is complete. Some cities offer subscription plans (like Uber Pass) that may include discounts on deliveries, though this varies by location.

Availability by city and region

Uber Package is not available everywhere. The service launched in major U.S. cities and has expanded to some international markets, but many smaller towns and rural areas do not have it yet. Availability also depends on demand — if there are not enough drivers in your area, the service may not be offered or may have longer wait times.

To check if Uber Package is available in your city, open the Uber app and look for the delivery option. If it is not there, the service is not yet active in your area. You can also check Uber's website or contact Uber support to ask when the service might launch in your region.

What happens if something goes wrong

If a package does not arrive, is late, or arrives damaged, contact Uber support through the app. Go to the trip details, select "Help," and describe the issue. Uber may refund your delivery fee or offer account credit, but the company does not replace or reimburse the contents of the package itself. This is why you should never send anything valuable or irreplaceable.

If the driver cannot find the dropoff address or the recipient is not available, the driver will attempt to contact them. If no one answers, the driver may return the package to the pickup location or wait a short time. Clarify delivery instructions (gate codes, apartment numbers, specific entrances) in the app notes before the driver arrives to avoid confusion.

Uber Package versus other delivery options

Uber Package is fastest for same-day, same-city deliveries but costs more than traditional mail or parcel services. If you need to send something across the country or internationally, use USPS, UPS, FedEx, or DHL instead. If you are sending a small document or letter, regular mail is cheaper. If you need insurance or a may provide of delivery, a traditional carrier is safer.

Uber Package works best when you need something delivered within hours in your city and you are willing to pay a premium for speed. It is also useful when the recipient needs the item urgently and you want to avoid the hassle of going to a shipping center. For routine or non-urgent shipments, traditional services are usually more economical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule a delivery for a specific time?

Most Uber Package requests are for immediate pickup and delivery. Some cities may allow you to schedule deliveries in advance through the app, but this varies by location. Check your app to see if scheduling is an option in your area.

What if the driver damages my package?

Uber does not insure packages against damage. If your package arrives damaged, contact Uber support and provide photos. You may receive a refund of the delivery fee, but Uber will not replace or pay for the contents. Pack fragile items carefully or use a traditional carrier that offers insurance.

Can I send a package to someone I do not know?

Yes. You provide the dropoff address and the recipient's phone number so the driver can contact them. The recipient does not need an Uber account. However, you are responsible for ensuring the address and phone number are correct.

Is my package tracked during delivery?

Yes. You can see the driver's location in real time through the app, similar to ride-sharing. You can also see when the package is picked up and when it is delivered.

What if Uber Package is not available in my city?

Check the Uber app periodically — the service expands to new cities regularly. In the meantime, use USPS, UPS, FedEx, or local courier services. Some cities also have independent same-day delivery apps that may be available in your area.