UberFreight states on its new website that haulers can expect fair deals and no haggling with brokers.
Haulers, however, can also expect some challenges in learning more about carrier opportunities through the company’s site. I had to enter an email address just to get basic information about the business. Sharing that same page with catchy promotional messages was a carrier sign-up box where I entered my name, email address and mobile phone number. After clicking next, I was told that a representative would be contacting me shortly through email.
But after two hours into the wait, there was still no word from the company. While waiting, I read some of the company’s pitches: “Make great money: Haul as much as you want and book loads right from the app… Get paid right away: When you complete a load, the payment goes straight into your bank account. Never again wait 30 days for payment… Signing up is easy: Sign up today and you’ll be on the road in no time. Don’t wait to start making great money with UberFreight.”
So, it sounds interesting at this point, but there’s no information beyond that. What can haulers expect? Are there opportunities for hot shot haulers? Minimum loads? What regions are offering more hauling opportunities? How many loads can a newbie expect to haul in the first week or two? Are haulers rated like Uber drivers?
While UberFreight’s website and carrier support response is not impressive, the concept is definitely intriguing and could prove more cost effective for shippers and consumers alike.
The Wall Street Journal reported recently that Amazon may be creating an Uber-like app that would summon haulers for freight while eliminating shipping brokers like the UberFreight app.
WSJ reports that Amazon’s shipping app could also be used for a fee by companies not affiliated with the online retailer.
