Uber Eats can deliver packages, but it works differently than food delivery

Uber Eats has a package delivery feature in some cities, but it is not the same as ordering food. You send a package from one address to another within your city, and an Uber driver picks it up and drops it off. The service is called Uber Eats Package Delivery or sometimes just "packages" in the app. It is available in select U.S. cities and some international locations, but not everywhere Uber operates.

This is different from Uber's main ride service (UberX) and different from their dedicated package service called Uber Freight, which is for businesses shipping large quantities. Package Delivery through Uber Eats is for individuals sending single items or small batches across town.

Key Takeaways

  • Uber Eats Package Delivery is only available in certain cities; you can check the Uber Eats app to see if your location is covered.
  • You set the pickup and dropoff addresses in the app, and an Uber driver handles the transport; you do not ride along.
  • Pricing is based on distance and current demand, similar to food delivery pricing, and you pay through the app at the time of request.
  • Packages must fit in a car and cannot be oversized, hazardous, or contain prohibited items like weapons or controlled substances.
  • Delivery typically takes 30 minutes to a few hours depending on driver availability and distance, though this is not may provide.

How to send a package through the Uber Eats app

Open the Uber Eats app on your phone and look for the "Packages" or "Send" tab. This is usually at the bottom of the screen alongside "Eats" and "Grocery." Tap it to start a new package request. You will see a map where you enter two addresses: the pickup location (where the package is now) and the dropoff location (where it needs to go).

Enter both addresses as precisely as you can, including apartment or suite numbers if applicable. The app will show you an estimated price based on distance and current demand. Once you confirm the price and tap to request a driver, the system sends the job to nearby Uber drivers. A driver will accept the job, drive to the pickup address, collect the package, and deliver it to the dropoff address.

You can track the driver in real time on the map, just as you would with food delivery. The driver will contact you if they cannot find the pickup location or if there is a problem. You do not need to ride in the car; the driver handles the entire transport.

What you can and cannot send

Packages must be small enough to fit in a standard car trunk or backseat. There is no official size limit published by Uber, but oversized furniture, appliances, or anything requiring special equipment will not be accepted. The package should not weigh more than what one person can reasonably carry.

You cannot send weapons, ammunition, explosives, controlled substances, perishable food (unless it is in a sealed, insulated container), live animals, or anything illegal in your state. Uber also prohibits items that are fragile and require special handling, though this rule is sometimes interpreted loosely. If you are unsure whether something is allowed, contact Uber support through the app before requesting a driver.

The sender and receiver are responsible for the contents. Uber does not insure packages against loss or damage. If something goes wrong during delivery, you would need to file a claim through the app, but recovery is not may provide.

Pricing and payment

Uber Eats Package Delivery pricing varies by city and changes based on distance and demand. You will see the exact price in the app before you confirm the request, so there are no hidden fees. Payment is automatic through your Uber account using the payment method you have on file (credit card, debit card, or Uber Cash).

Prices are typically lower than hiring a dedicated courier service but higher than standard mail. A package going a few miles across town might cost $5 to $15, while longer distances could run $20 to $50 or more. Surge pricing can apply during busy times, just as it does with food delivery.

Delivery time and what to expect

Delivery usually takes 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on how many drivers are available and how far the package needs to go. The app will give you an estimated arrival time, but this is not a may provide. If a driver is not available immediately, you may wait longer, or the request may be cancelled if no one accepts it within a certain window.

The driver will attempt to contact you or the recipient if they cannot locate the address. Make sure the addresses you enter are correct and that someone is available at the dropoff location to receive the package. If the recipient is not home, the driver may leave the package in a safe place (if you have instructed them to do so) or return it to the pickup address.

Cities where Uber Eats Package Delivery is available

Uber Eats Package Delivery is not available everywhere. As of now, it operates in select U.S. cities including parts of California, Texas, Florida, and New York, as well as some cities in Canada, Australia, and other countries. The list of available cities changes, and Uber regularly expands or pauses the service in different areas.

To learn about the service is available in your city, open the Uber Eats app and look for the Packages tab. If you do not see it, the service is not currently available in your area. You can also check Uber's website or contact Uber support to ask when the service might launch in your location.

Alternatives if Uber Eats Package Delivery is not available

If Uber Eats Package Delivery is not available where you live, you have other options. Uber Freight is available in more cities but is designed for businesses and requires a commercial account. Local courier services, postal services (USPS, UPS, FedEx), and apps like TaskRabbit or Instacart can also move packages across town, though each has different pricing and speed.

Some cities have local delivery startups that work similarly to Uber Eats Package Delivery. Asking neighbors or checking local Facebook groups can reveal what services people actually use in your area. For urgent same-day delivery, a local courier or TaskRabbit is often faster and more reliable than waiting for Uber to launch in your city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if the driver cannot find the pickup address?

The driver will call or text you to ask for directions or clarification. If they cannot locate it after a reasonable attempt, they may cancel the request and return to their previous location. Make sure your pickup address is as specific as possible, including building number, apartment number, and any landmarks that help.

Can I send a package to someone who is not home?

The driver will attempt delivery, but if no one is there to receive it, they may leave it in a safe place (if you have instructed them to) or return it. You can add delivery instructions in the app, such as "leave it by the front door" or "ring the doorbell twice." The recipient should be notified in advance so they expect the delivery.

Is my package insured if it gets lost or damaged?

Uber does not automatically insure packages. You can file a claim through the app if something goes wrong, but recovery depends on the circumstances and is not may provide. For valuable items, consider using a service that offers insurance or using traditional courier services that provide coverage.

Can I schedule a delivery for a specific time?

Uber Eats Package Delivery is on-demand only; you cannot schedule a pickup or delivery for a future time. You request a driver when you are ready to send the package, and they arrive as soon as one is available. If you need a scheduled delivery, a traditional courier or postal service may be a better option.

What if I need to cancel a package delivery after requesting it?

You can cancel through the app before a driver accepts the request. Once a driver has accepted and is on the way, cancellation may result in a cancellation fee. The sooner you cancel, the less likely you are to be charged. Check the app for the exact cancellation policy in your area.