China’s courier companies take hands-off approach amid virus

CHINA’S armies of racing, swerving motorcycle deliverymen have been hailed as saviors during the coronavirus crisis, keeping shut-in citizens fed and stocked up. But it’s come with major adjustments for couriers like Gao Yuchao.

A Shanghai driver for leading meal take-out service ele.me, Gao’s job has changed: his temperature is taken several times daily at restaurants and delivery points, he wears not one but two masks for protection, and frequently disinfects his delivery box.

Gone is the routine hand-off to hungry customers – ele.me and other platforms have moved to “contactless” delivery to guard against infection, dropping parcels off outside gated communities due to para

noia over the virus.

“We’re not safe for them. It’s understandable that some people have courier-phobia,” said Gao, 30.

“It’s more protective and hygienic for everyone.”

Tens of millions have been effectively quarantined in the virus epicenter in central China, but communities across the country also have adopted strict curbs on movement and access to arrest the contagion’s spread.

The economy has been impacted across the board, including hugely popular food-delivery platforms.

Yet despite reduced volumes, uniformed drivers have remained among the most visible sights on otherwise emptied streets.

State-controlled media have praised them as “heroes” keeping the economy – and people – on life support. Hands-off approach

In the city of Wuhan where the virus first emerged and which remains under strict quarantine, couriers have reportedly pitched in to take hospital staff to work or deliver medical supplies and groceries, drawing nationwide kudos.

Ele.me rival Meituan launched no-contact delivery in Wuhan on January 26, later rolling it out across the country. McDonald’s, KFC, and Starbucks are among the major players to follow suit.

Couriers arrive at predetermined locations then step back as customers pick up their dinner.

Delivery riders typically provide a card listing the temperatures of all those involved in cooking, packing, and delivery, and stating whether the courier’s equipment had been disinfected that day.