Uber can deliver packages through its Uber Eats app and its standalone Uber services, depending on what you're sending and where you live.

Uber offers two main ways to send a package. The first is Uber Eats, which lets you send items from restaurants and some retail stores to a recipient's address. The second is Uber Connect, a service available in select cities that lets you send packages between any two addresses — you don't need to pick them up from a business.

Both services work through the Uber app. You enter a pickup location, a delivery address, and pay a fee. An Uber driver picks up the package and delivers it. The main difference is what you can send and where the service is available in your area.

Key Takeaways

  • Uber Eats can deliver packages from restaurants and some retail stores, while Uber Connect lets you send items between any two addresses.
  • Uber Connect is not available in all cities — you need to check the app to see if the service works in your location.
  • You pay a delivery fee based on distance and current demand, and the driver's pickup and delivery times appear in the app.
  • The recipient does not need an Uber account, but you do to send a package.

How to Send a Package Through Uber Eats

Open the Uber Eats app and search for a restaurant or retail store that has the items you want to send. Not every store offers delivery, so you may need to try a few. Once you find one, add items to your cart as if you were ordering food or goods for yourself.

At checkout, enter the delivery address where you want the package to go. You'll see the delivery fee, which depends on distance and current demand. Complete payment, and a driver will pick up the order and deliver it. The app shows you the driver's location and estimated arrival time.

This method works well if you're sending something that's already available at a restaurant or store — groceries, prepared food, retail items. It's not meant for personal items you want to send from your home.

How to Send a Package Through Uber Connect

Uber Connect is the service to use if you want to send a package from your own location to someone else's. Open the Uber app (not Uber Eats) and look for the "Send something" or "Uber Connect" option. This option only appears in cities where the service is available.

Enter the pickup address (where the package is now), the delivery address (where it needs to go), and a brief description of what you're sending. You'll see the delivery fee before you confirm. Once you pay, a driver will arrive at the pickup location, collect the package, and deliver it to the recipient.

Uber Connect is useful for sending items between friends, returning something to a store, or getting a package to someone across town. The recipient does not need to have an Uber account — the driver will contact them when arriving.

What You Can and Cannot Send

Uber does not allow you to send alcohol, weapons, hazardous materials, or anything illegal. You also cannot send live animals or items that require special handling like extremely fragile goods or temperature-controlled items.

For Uber Eats deliveries, you're limited to what the restaurant or store offers. For Uber Connect, you can send most everyday items — documents, gifts, clothing, electronics, books, and similar things. If you're unsure whether something is allowed, describe it accurately in the app and Uber will let you know.

Delivery Fees and Timing

Delivery fees vary by distance, location, and current demand. Shorter deliveries cost less than longer ones, and fees are higher during busy times. The app shows you the exact fee before you confirm the order, so you'll know the cost upfront.

Delivery times depend on how far the package is traveling and how busy drivers are in your area. Most deliveries take 30 minutes to an hour, but this can be longer during peak hours or for longer distances. The app gives you an estimated arrival time once a driver accepts the job.

Checking Availability in Your Area

Uber Eats is available in most cities across the United States and many countries worldwide. Uber Connect, however, is only available in select cities. To learn about Uber Connect works where you live, open the Uber app and look for the "Send something" option. If it doesn't appear, the service is not yet available in your area.

You can also check the Uber website for a list of cities where Uber Connect operates. This list changes as Uber expands the service to new locations.

What Happens if the Delivery Goes Wrong

If a package doesn't arrive or arrives damaged, contact Uber through the app. Go to the trip details and select "Help" to report an issue. Describe what happened — the package didn't arrive, it was damaged, or the driver couldn't find the address.

Uber will investigate and may issue a refund or credit to your account. Keep photos of any damage if possible, as this helps Uber understand what went wrong. For Uber Eats orders, you can also contact the restaurant directly if the issue is with the items themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the person receiving the package need an Uber account?

No. The recipient does not need an Uber account. The driver will contact them when arriving and can hand over the package directly. You only need an account to send the package.

Can I schedule a delivery for a specific time?

Uber Eats lets you schedule deliveries in some locations — you can choose a time window when you place the order. Uber Connect typically offers only when ready delivery, though this varies by city. Check the app when you're ready to send to see what options are available.

What if the driver can't find the delivery address?

The driver will call or text the recipient to get directions or clarify the location. Make sure the address you enter is correct and complete. If the recipient doesn't answer, the driver may return the package to the pickup location, and you'll be refunded.

Can I send a package to someone in a different city?

Yes, if both the pickup and delivery addresses are in a city where Uber Connect operates. You can send across town or to a neighboring city, as long as the service covers both locations. Check the app to confirm the delivery address is in a supported area.

How much does it cost to send a package?

Fees depend on distance and demand and are shown in the app before you confirm. There's no flat rate — a short delivery across town costs less than a long one. Prices are higher during busy times like lunch or dinner hours.