Bolt has unveiled Bolt Send, a same-day parcel delivery service in the northern part of Johannesburg. This service allows customers to conveniently send small parcels and gifts via the Bolt app, with payment options including card and cash.
This development comes shortly after the company decided to shut down Bolt Food operations in South Africa and Nigeria just over a month ago.
Powered by a fleet of Bajaj Qutes, this new service is a strategic expansion that builds on the success and popularity of the ride-hailing platform.
Bolt confirmed that this development provides “extra earning opportunities for Bolt’s driver partners,” reinforcing the platform’s dedication to meeting the changing needs of its users. The company emphasizes its commitment to exceeding user expectations by providing a reliable service delivery solution, responding to the increasing demand.
To utilize this service, users simply click the parcel icon in the app, enter a pick-up point and destination, choose Bolt Send from the vehicle category page, and then confirm their trip.
Once the driver has arrived and is ready to collect the parcel, users will be notified. After the parcel has been collected, they can share the journey details with the recipient.
Commenting on the move, Sandra Suzanne Buyole, Bolt Africa’s PR Manager, said;
Leveraging the strong reception of the Bajaj vehicles allows us to offer a dedicated delivery solution that aligns with Bolt’s reputation for efficiency and innovation.
Buyole stated that with this initiative, the ride-hailing company is offering drivers an additional way to generate income during these difficult economic times.
The operation and pricing of this service are based on distance and demand. Bolt underscored that it does not provide insurance coverage for package loss, damage, or theft. Parcels must be 60 x 40 x 40 cm or smaller and valued at R1,500 or less.
In December 2023, Bolt announced it would discontinue its services in Nigeria and South Africa. The company noted that the decision to leave this market was necessary to streamline resources and optimize its overall efficiency as a business.
