Launched in 2017, Uber Freight connects truck drivers with shipping companies. The framework of the service is similar to the company’s ride-sharing offering that connects drivers with riders.
About Uber Freight
Uber Technologies expanded their operations to the freight industry with this service and have since revolutionized the domain with hassle-free load boards and freight shipping. The platform has emerged as a technology, service, and quality leader across the industry.
The company is currently leveraging SAP and MercuryGate as its primary transportation management system. Moreover, the avant-garde tech powering the platform offers the users the following capabilities:
- In-app feature to leave feedback on shipping facilities
- Post-truck feature to engage your vehicle with available loads by matching specific needs
- Transparent cargo pricing
- All-day booking facility
- Alerts when preferred routes or ideal loads are available
- Payment via the app within 7 days of submitting the POD
- 24/7 customer support
Who is the target group of Uber Freight?
Small and medium-sized shipping businesses are the primary focus group of Uber Freight. These markets offer Uber a base to offer digital brokerage to help maintain their freight. Besides, the company does not disclose shipper names owing to confidentiality clauses.
However, industry leaders like Land O’Lakes, for instance, were among the earliest adopters of the Uber Freight platform. Further, other major brands leveraging Uber Freight to meet their logistics needs include:
- Anheuser-Busch
- LG
- Wis-Pak
- Narragansett Beer
- Premier Packaging
- Procter & Gamble
Where is Uber Freight available currently?
Uber Freight is currently operational in:
- Continental United States
- Canada
- Select European countries
How does the Freight platform pricing work?
Uber Freight prices are determined by the company’s proprietary algorithm. It is based on real-time market data to generate the most competitive prices available at the time.
Within 15 minutes (approximately), the platform can generate a quote throughout the day. For the same, you need to enter details of load, including the number of pallets, weight, and destination. Also, it should be noted that the pricing varies depending on carrier availability and delivery timing.
Additionally, the platform, occasionally, enables the user to add bids — either manually or via the web portal or application. In case of approval of the said bid, the platform will engage with a carrier to arrive at a figure comparable to the estimated price.
How does the platform vet carriers?
Uber Freight’s vetting involves industry best practices to ensure proper inspection of the trucking company. Uber makes use of tools like SaferWatch and the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) database to check information such as safety rating, operating authority, insurance details, etc.
As a minimum requirement, for instance, carrier companies are required to have cargo liability insurance of $100,000 or higher.
Furthermore, the company reviews the necessary equipment requirements to carry out the job. So, carriers must have one of the following:
- A 53′ dry van
- Flatbed
- Reefer
Is the carrier liable in case of damage to the cargo shipment?
Yes, carriers are legally liable in case of damage to the cargo shipment. As a shipper, you can report a cargo claim to the platform’s exclusive team (designated to deal with claims of cargo damage and/or loss). In addition, as part of company policy, Uber verifies the cargo insurance coverages of carriers to ensure the best interest of the parties involved.