May 19 - The Uber Freight app is a new service from the ride-hailing company that pairs up trucking companies, including independent operators, with loads that need to be hauled from one place to another.
The app looks a lot like the main Uber app, but is targeted towards vetted and approved drivers, who can browse for nearby available loads, see destination info, distance required and payment upfront and then tap to book.
The idea is to streamline something that used to take hours of back and forth negotiation via phone or other communication, putting it in a simple workflow with confirmation of job acceptance and rates paid within a few seconds, says Uber.
The formal launch of the app marks Uber's long-anticipated move into the trucking industry - potentially disrupting one of the most popular professions.
Uber said in a blog post that the new app will relieve stress for drivers by confirming rates and loads within seconds, and delivering payments within a few days, much faster than the month-long waiting periods that are typical in the industry.
