International ride hailing service, Uber, has launched its newest platform Uber Freight, in an effort to digitally transform freight haulage.
Uber Freight will match companies that require freight services with available truckers in the area, much in the same way that the standard app works for those in need of transport.
Uber Freight is the latest service from the company, following UberEATS for food delivery, UberBOAT a water taxi service in Istanbul, and UberRUSH a courier service available in New York City.
Uber Freight aims to change the way that load hauling is done by offering a simple interface that will allow drivers and companies to complete the process with relative ease.
Currently the process of establishing rates and times can take several hours of conversations and phone calls. Uber says that this process will now take seconds and the push of a button.
The service began in Texas last year but has now launched to a much larger audience. With this new avenue of business, Uber can now operate in a field which affects 70% of American Goods and could see a significant boost in revenue if all goes according to plan.
The app will allow drivers to choose which loads they wish to carry and to what location they go of those available. The service also promises that the rates are final and will be paid much quicker than the current 30 day waiting period that is common for freelancers. These payments will also be fee-free, allowing driver to receive the full amount of money that they are promised.
Uber is also working on self driving cars that could eliminate the need for drivers in future, particularly after its acquisition of self driving trucking company Otto. Though the recent court case with Waymo could hinder those plans.
The app and signing up are now free on both iOS and Android, though drivers must be vetted beforehand.
