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Uber Freight Vehicle Requirements: How to meet them?

(Last Updated On: February 17, 2024)

Uber Freight Vehicle Requirements

Uber, which took the transport industry by storm a few years back, is now revolutionizing the freight industry with its Uber Freight application for drivers.

Truck drivers using the Uber Freight application, installed into a smartphone, can find loads to transport whenever they want to work. This helps them to take the guesswork out of deciding what jobs a driver wants and makes it easier for truckers to find work.

Uber Freight helps the American trucker whose truck meets Uber Freight vehicle requirements to “create a level playing field.”

With a simple click of a button through Uber reports, a procedure that used to take some hours and several telephone conversations to arrange can now be organized.

Truckers can access the mobile app after vetting and scanning for a load that needs to be passed. When they want the work, they just need to tap to book it. Uber will, therefore, send in a matter of minutes, confirmation of the cost; this helps to alleviate a common concern in trucking over whether or not a load has been verified.

In this comprehensive Uber Freight guide, we will take a look at how the company makes the most use of GPS tracking technology, its API integration with Motive (formerly KeepTruckin), and Uber Freight vehicle requirements.

Uber Freight vehicle requirements approach

Uber Freight’s solution helps the trucking industry solve a number of problems that owner-operators have to deal with every day. Although the company has been around for a few years on the market; Uber claims that it is solving today’s drivers’ concerns and is seeking a creative way to address them.

Uber Freight claims that the app and service eradicate many of the industry’s pain points together. The company expressed its conviction that “happy truckers make happy shippers” at the heart of its release statement, where Uber explained their vision for the company’s service. As a result, everybody benefits equally in a business partnership where people are given equal consideration.

Uber and Telematics

uber freight appUber’s service is based on its mobile app that users use to obtain GPS, gyroscope, and accelerometer data during trips. This Data is continuously collected during transit and sent for processing and storage on Uber’s servers.

Uber provides drivers with comparative data on their driving skills. And this is done by analyzing the travel data for harsh braking, speed acceleration, or dangerous cornering. And also stores data to find location-specific trends or long-term drivers.

The purpose of Uber’s use of telematics is to promote driver safety and reduce truck crashes when a truck meets Uber Freight vehicle requirements. At the same time, the app collects valuable and useful information about routes, weather, and driver reactions.

For example, Uber may cut off drivers that they consider to be regularly unsafe or underperforming drivers. Also, Uber may collect driver’s data used in several other services, including a particular city’s hard-braking rate. This long-term data may be particularly helpful in Uber’s research on autonomous car development.

GPS Tracking

GPS tracking

Uber share systems use a trustworthy dealer’s GPS tracking systems to track the truck driver’s position and often monitor the vehicle operator. Uber Freight truck requirements are designed over a very advanced GPS monitoring device. And this helps drivers, as well as customers, to collect GPS Gyroscope as well as acceleration data during trips.

As a result, critical data is collected and sent for processing and long-term storage on the Uber servers. The device assesses drivers’ driving habits and notifies officials when dangerous driving habits occur. For this reason, all Uber drivers, as well as customers, are assured of their safety,

Why?

The company guarantees that the drivers are focused on the road whenever a driver is chosen for a trip. Uber uses this data to cut off drivers they believe are excessively unsafe or work poorly. And these data may also be used for potential reference too.

The GPS System also tracks the following.

  • Mileage and expenses
  • Increase trips number
  • Reduces operation Costs
  • Vehicle’s whereabouts – Real-time tracking

Uber Freight partners with Motive (formerly KeepTruckin)

Uber Freight and Motive (formerly KeepTruckin) have partnered to help improve load tracking challenges, improve visibility, and build resilient supply chains. As a result, the company has round-the-clock insight into the loads they ship

Through this partnership, Uber Freight strengthened its tracking capabilities and ability to provide accurate ETAs for shippers by integrating directly with Motive (formerly  KeepTruckin) through API.

Therefore, Carriers using Uber Freight, who currently use the Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) of Motive (formerly KeepTruckin), can opt to share position data with the Uber Freight platform. And this increases their capabilities for real-time shipment tracking and decreases the need for driver check-in calls.

According to Uber Freight, the addition of ELD data gives shippers more reliable on-time pick up and delivery information about their freight.

Motive (formerly Keep Truckin) Smart Load Board

Motive (formerly KeepTruckin) launched Smart Load Board – the first-ever freight marketplace-based ELD. The Smart Load Board seamlessly matches loads based on a comprehensive insight into a carrier’s needs and desires. As a result, the Smart Load Board revolutionizes how trucking businesses deploy their drivers, minimize empty miles, and increase their bottom line.

Industry launch partners, including Uber Freight, Echo Global Logistics (Echo), Edge Logistics, EPES Logistics, Page Trucking, Keller Freight Solutions, and Parade, can post thousands of loads to the Smart Load Board, Motive (formerly KeepTruckin) added. For these partners, carriers moving loads can choose to share their position data from Motive (formerly KeepTruckin), allowing the brokerage to access it specifically for these partners.

What are the Benefits of the Partnership?

The following are the benefits that the carrier stands to benefit from Uber freight and Motive (formerly KeepTruckin) Partnership:

#1  Eliminates intrusive calls checks

And to be more efficient, this integration reduces frustrating check calls. Carriers can also use the Uber Freight carrier app or any Motive (formerly KeepTruckin) ELD they have on their delivery truck to get started, and carriers are still in charge of their preferences for data sharing.

#2  Visibility

Uber Freight has made a conscious effort from the beginning to make the freight business more straightforward. As a result, the company brings market visibility through its collaboration with Motive (formerly KeepTruckin), allowing both shippers and carriers to have simplicity and save time.

#3. Exclusive load access

The API integration gives Access to thousands of loads you can’t find anywhere else from reliable outlets like Uber Freight.

Uber Freight Partnership with Samsara

Samsara also partnered with Uber Freight vehicle requirements to help truckers meet up. And this helps to reduce the cost of compliance and improve efficiencies for shipping companies, owner-operators, and drivers. As a result, Uber Freight partnered with Samsara as a preferred software partner for qualifying fleets of 6 or even more trucks as part of the Agreement.

Due to this partnership, the discounts on Samsara’s ELD and trailer tracking solutions will be given to qualifying carriers, with a total deduction of $25,000 under the program:

Samsara ELD Discount Program

uber freight samsara

Participating fleet companies must share their mobile data with Uber Freight from Samsara’s open API as part of the discount program. Therefore, Uber Freight carriers will minimize tracking calls to drivers due to increased load location visibility. And also help in automating detention processing, according to the company.

Samsara Vehicle Gateway (VG34) Discount

Uber Freight introduces a $50 discount for Samsara Vehicle Gateway (VG34), an ELD that provides live-to-second GPS tracking, seamless HOS logging, and WiFi hotspot connectivity. Tandem with Samsara AI dash cams, this ELD could also be used for driver safety, training, and exoneration.

Samsara Asset Gateway (AG24) Discount

Uber Freight also promises a $20 discount per Samsara Asset Gateway (AG24), which could also be mounted separately to trucks to ensure continuous visibility at the load venue.

If you want to get a free quote, kindly fill out the questionnaire below:

Electronic logging devices options




Other Integration

Uber freight also has a partnership with Blue Yonder and Oracle to provide API integration into the transportation management solution. And this power is the solution for dynamic and 24/7 real-time pricing and tendering capabilities.

The solution provides shippers with immediate, market-based pricing, allowing them to make quick decisions and run their companies in real-time. To guarantee service stays robust and reliable for any customer, shippers can transfer loads to ensure that their rates represent the industry’s current trends and lock in available capacity instantly.

How Does Uber Work

Uber Freight, at its heart, is much like any other freight broker.

  • Shippers send Uber detailed information about their shipment, where and when to pick the load up, where to go, and when to get to the delivery address.
  • Carriers that satisfy Uber Freight carrier requirements search the shipments available and choose the one they want.
  • The carrier gets all the information needed with Uber Freight: how much the load costs, the weight, the truck type required, etc.
  • The carrier also has the freedom to pick the loads that make the most sense for them.
  • Most importantly, the Uber app enables the trucking company to book loads 24/7 and get paid within seven days.

Uber Freight Driver-Vehicle Vetting Process

For every driver interested in working with Uber Freight service, the driver would need to reach out to the company first as a screening process is required. The screening process helps ensure that only eligible truckers and trucks that comply with Uber Freight vehicle requirements can access the platform. Therefore, Uber Freight is cutting out a hurdle by pre-vetting all the people who have signed up as drivers.

Customer sign-up to list shipping-requiring loads, trust that anybody who takes on the job at the other end is a pre-vetted truck driver; has satisfied all Uber Freight vehicle requirements and is also backed by Uber’s method of verification. This vetting process helps to build trust on the company side. And therefore, encourages more customers and businesses to get involved when it comes to reporting loads that have to be shipped.

Getting this pre-vetting mechanism in place has been a good step on Uber’s part: Even though it does mean a barrier to jump through for truck drivers trying to enter the platform; This “hoop” eventually creates a trustworthy network that convinces companies of all sizes. And are able to know that the truck drivers at the other end of their shipments are, in fact, eligible to manage their valuable goods.

And this has become a piece of positive news for truckers that meets Uber Freight vehicle requirements; As it allows for more job opportunities as the number of customers using the Uber app continues to expand. It also helps drivers to have better credibility with companies who use the app.

Drivers qualify for Uber Freight as independent truck drivers when they have MC or DOT number. And they must be an approved carrier, of course. Uber Freight registration can always be done via the Uber website. The company then contacts the applicants for the “carrier onboarding” documents to validate the details. And to also verify if the applicant’s track meets Uber Freight vehicle requirements.

Once the driver is certified and approved, which they claim is usually within a couple of days, the drivers able to get booking loads 24/7 through the Uber Freight mobile app. If a carrier employs a driver, the driver will need to sign-up with the carrier before using the Uber Freight app.

Get Motive Here!

Uber Freight Vehicle Requirements

What kind of truck meets the specification for Uber Freight requirements?

Uber Freight features 53’ FTL dry van loads on just about every lane out there. And this would also be positive news for truck drivers because it guarantees no other special requirements. All they need is to get a truck that meets the requirements of federal and state regulations. And also ensure that the truck drivers meet Uber Freight driver requirements.

Here are some of what you’ll need to enroll for Uber Freight, become an Uber Freight driver as well as book your first load. All rivers will need to fill in carrier and truck detail. And also need to provide the following information to prove all the details provided:

  • Uber Freight insurance requirements – Insurance Certificate evidencing at least auto liability of $1,000,000 and cargo liability of $100,000, including (if applicable) reefer breakdown coverage (for the intrastate carrier).

That is the basic insurance requirement for Uber Freight.

  • Driver’s bank account information – Uber Freight use this to pay drivers using ACH direct deposit
  • State-level motor carrier permits and registrations
  • No conditional or unsatisfactory safety rating
  • 53′ dry van or reefer (truck and trailer)
  • DOT or Motor Carrier number

And also, a driver would need a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to drive a vehicle.

Getting Started with Uber Freight: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sign-Up Process

To begin, download the Uber Freight app from the App Store or Google Play. Once installed, open the app and select the sign-up option. You’ll be prompted to enter basic information, including your name, contact details, and company information if applicable.

2. Documentation Required

Prepare to submit the necessary documentation to verify your eligibility. This includes:

  • A valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) for truckers.
  • Proof of insurance, meeting Uber Freight’s minimum requirements ($1,000,000 auto liability and $100,000 cargo liability).
  • A DOT or Motor Carrier (MC) number.
  • For companies, details about your fleet, including the number and type of trucks.

3. Profile Completion

Complete your profile by providing additional information about your preferences, such as preferred routes, types of loads you’re interested in, and availability. This helps Uber Freight match you with suitable loads.

4. Navigating the App

The Uber Freight app is designed for ease of use. The main dashboard will display available loads based on your preferences. You can search for loads by location, type, and date. Each load listing provides detailed information, including pickup and delivery locations, load weight, and payout.

5. Booking Loads

When you find a load that fits your schedule and equipment, tap to book it. Uber Freight will send a confirmation, including the rate confirmation and any special instructions for the load.

6. Completing Deliveries

After accepting a load, use the app to navigate to the pickup and delivery locations. The app allows you to update the status of the load, such as “loaded” and “delivered,” and provides a way to upload proof of delivery directly through the app.

7. Getting Paid

Uber Freight promises quick payments, often within a few days after delivery confirmation. Ensure your bank details are correctly entered in the app to facilitate direct deposits.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings and Efficiency

  • Keep your availability and preferences updated to receive load recommendations that match your profile.
  • Regularly check the app for new loads, especially if you’re near major freight hubs.
  • Take advantage of Uber Freight’s “Rate Lock” feature, which allows you to lock in rates on certain lanes.
  • Maintain good communication with Uber Freight through the app for any issues or questions that arise during a load.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully navigate the Uber Freight platform, finding loads that suit your schedule and preferences, while maximizing your earnings and efficiency on the road.

Required Equipment Types for Uber Freight

Making more options in how you operate in the trucking sector will help create momentum. And this is why Uber Freight is proud to allow flatbed loads as well as dry van, reefer, and power-only options.

The introduction of flatbed indicates a substantial expansion of the Uber Freight platform’s reach. A lot of industries depend on a flatbed truck and hence the highly skilled carriers required to use them to meet complex load demands.

If you are a shipping company, Uber Freight always provides you with the loads of resources you need. Below are the types of equipment that you will need to satisfy Uber Freight vehicle requirements.

Dry van

Uber Freight works with such a wide range of carriers, delivering everything to big-box stores as well as up-and-coming small entrepreneurs. The Uber Freight vehicle requirements also allow dry van loads of 53 “FTL. The Uber app’s intuitive design helps carriers find the loads they need on their portal quickly. Best of all, the company is bringing technology resources and experience to improve logistics.

Reefer

Uber partners with food and drink distributors to find a way to keep grocery stores loaded with products. Uber Freight allows versatile, efficient reefer capacities for dairy, fresh and frozen products, temperature-controlled foods and beverages, fruit, and much more.

Working for Uber requires a carrier to have modern food-grade trailers and large cargo coverage, particularly coverage for reefer breakdowns. The carriers are screened, and the company passes them specific Uber Freight vehicle requirements.

Power-only

Even if you are a shipping company or carrier, with your vehicle meeting Uber Freight vehicle requirements, you will have the advantages of working with Ubers as a carrier.

Flatbed

If there is a trucking equipment category that would meet up with the vehicle requirements for Uber Freight and also ready for the digital revolution, it is flatbed. While it is a significant part of the entire freight industry, flatbed remains a highly integrated vehicle that relies on conventional methods of keeping things moving.

The Uber Freight allows flatbed loads of 48 ‘and 53 “FTL. Therefore, shipping companies will be able to create loads up to 2 weeks in advance via the Uber shipper platform. As a result, they will also reap the benefits of a range of workflow advancements, such as quick pricing and electronic report.

For flatbed carriers, too, it’s a huge victory. As a result, they can book loads in just about no time through the Uber Freight web portal or app. In the long run, due to better Access to loads over the year, they will also know more reliable equipment utilization.

Electronic logging devices help



Conclusion

Freight brokers typically hold between 15% and 20% of the overall payout for a single shipment. However, Uber Freight rates have been less than 1 percent of those payouts since its launch – meaning carriers could hold up to 99 percent of what the shipper pays.

That’s fantastic news for owner-operators that their truck meets Uber Freight vehicle requirements. However, with a degree of caution, it is essential to address this optimism.

Actually, Uber is losing profits in the freight industry to create a broad user base, and they may later raise their share. However, Uber’s app-based brokerage’s low operational costs aren’t without tradeoffs. As with Uber, helping truckers isn’t always their strong point. If you have issues with shippers or customers, you might find that Uber isn’t effective in resolving them.

 

 

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About the author

Picture of Robert Rigman

Robert Rigman

Former independent OTR trucker that left the road to dedicate his time to research new technology for the transport industry. When the ELD Mandate was approved many questions and daily challenges came up and there was no answer to them. ELDdevices.net was born from the combination of my passion for trucking and my affinity for research and writing.

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2 Responses

  1. So at this point Uber Freight is not allowing box trucks, reefer or dry, into their delivery system. Is that correct? The power option means that a tractor could be part of an owner’s affiliation with Uber Freight and the trailers pulled would be provided by the various customers serviced. Do I have that correct as well. Much appreciated.

    1. Hi Robert,
      Uber Freight specifies on the website: “For now, you must have a 53’ dry van, reefer, or flatbed.” So, you are allowed to have a reefer and dry.
      Your second question about the power option is correct. This service is currently available in California, Oklahoma, and Texas. The Poweloop program is currently available for all licensed carriers in Texas.

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Share what you learned!

About the author

Picture of Robert Rigman

Robert Rigman

Former independent OTR trucker that left the road to dedicate his time to research new technology for the transport industry. When the ELD Mandate was approved many questions and daily challenges came up and there was no answer to them. ELDdevices.net was born from the combination of my passion for trucking and my affinity for research and writing.

2 Responses

  1. So at this point Uber Freight is not allowing box trucks, reefer or dry, into their delivery system. Is that correct? The power option means that a tractor could be part of an owner’s affiliation with Uber Freight and the trailers pulled would be provided by the various customers serviced. Do I have that correct as well. Much appreciated.

    1. Hi Robert,
      Uber Freight specifies on the website: “For now, you must have a 53’ dry van, reefer, or flatbed.” So, you are allowed to have a reefer and dry.
      Your second question about the power option is correct. This service is currently available in California, Oklahoma, and Texas. The Poweloop program is currently available for all licensed carriers in Texas.

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Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You might be interested...