New "PICKUP" App The "Uber" Of Hauling Items
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DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - A new technology company has emerged in North Texas aimed to help people without trucks "pickup" items or goods that will not fit in their car or SUV.
Dallas-based PICKUP works like popular ride-sharing companies such as Uber or Lyft.
"People say, 'Hey, you have a pick-up truck. Can I use your pick-up truck?'" said John Bartell, a PICKUP Driver.
Bartell is used to getting hounded by his friends who want to use his truck. Now, he is getting paid for his services.
"It's kind of like a cab for stuff. Instead of hauling somebody around, you're hauling their stuff around," said Bartell.
While it has only been operational for a few months, customers like Keri Ellis are already using it for items that she bought from West Elm that would not fit in her car.
"Especially at garage sales when you need something done that day, there's not a store beside you that can deliver something," said Ellis.
Founder Brenda Stoner said if the item is delivered within 10 miles and does not take longer than 45 minutes, the cost will not exceed the flat rate of $45. Stoner said her favorite selling point is that most of her drivers are firefighters, police officers, paramedics or military veterans.
"People know that Texas guys who drive pick-ups are good guys," said Stoner.
So far, PICKUP has completed 300 runs and covers the entire DFW metroplex. With plans to expand to Houston and Austin, Bartell feel pretty confident about his new line of work.
"There's always going to be a need to have stuff moved around," said Bartell.
Each delivery is insured up to $20,000.
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