In a move that further emphasizes delivery beyond food for Uber Eats, the platform launched courier returns through the app April 17, marking the first initiative of its kind for the on-demand third-party delivery industry.
App users can send eligible retail items valued at $20 or more purchased through Uber Eats back to retailers by accessing their order history, selecting the desired item and clicking “Return an item.” Refunds are processed immediately upon the courier collecting the items.
The returns via courier come with what Uber described as “a small price for never having to find parking at the mall,” a fee determined by the courier’s time and distance. According to an April 17 press release, Uber Eats’ courier returns are initially available at thousands of retail locations across the U.S., including Best Buy, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Pet Food Express, Pacsun and Petco — with plans to introduce additional retail partners.
“Returns are one of the biggest pain points in retail, and we’re reimagining them the way only Uber can,” Rohan Mathew, Engineering Lead at Uber Eats, said in a release. “Now, with just a tap, you can send an item back and get a refund without ever leaving home. Whether you’re debating the right paint color mid-project or second-guessing a new pair of wireless headphones, you can shop confidently on Uber Eats knowing returns are simple, fast, and convenient.”
The courier returns initiative from Uber Eats separates the platform from competitors in the 3PD space. DoorDash only offers in-store returns, which remains an option for Uber Eats customers. Similarly, Instacart requires in-person returns, with customers bringing items to retail stores.
