Several initiatives to improve last-mile delivery conditions for platform workers have been implemented at select locations in Singapore.
The Tripartite Workgroup on Last-Mile Delivery observed these measures on 19 July 2024 during site visits to Jurong Point and Lake Grande condominium.
The initiatives implemented include dedicated parking or waiting areas for parcel and food delivery personnel, clear wayfinding signage, concession season parking rates for delivery personnel at Jurong Point, and a WhatsApp communication channel for delivery personnel and mall management to share site conditions and safety information.
These initiatives aim to address daily challenges faced by delivery riders in the last-mile delivery – the final leg of the journey in delivering parcels or food from local distribution points to the customer’s doorstep.
National Development Minister Desmond Lee, Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat, and workgroup representatives, including NTUC Freelancers and Self-Employed Unit (U FSE) Director Jean See, participated in the site visit to assess these measures.
Common challenges faced by delivery personnel include denied entry to private properties, difficulties finding proper parking areas, risk of fines when parking on double yellow lines to meet delivery times, and long wait times at certain establishments, which can affect their income potential.
The observed initiatives were developed following feedback from a focus group discussion (FGD) on 26 June 2024, involving more than 60 development representatives and delivery personnel.
Ms See commented: “The National Delivery Champions Association (NDCA) is taking steps to improve delivery workers’ work conditions. Since 2020, we have regularly engaged with platform workers to understand their needs so that we can help improve their wages, welfare, and work prospects.
“Visits like today will help us see if these ideas are feasible and scalable. The partnership is crucial, and NDCA is working tirelessly with the workgroup to find solutions to help our delivery workers.”
The Tripartite Workgroup, formed in November 2023, brings together government agencies, union representatives, and industry partners.
Co-led by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and Land Transport Authority (LTA), the workgroup actively engages stakeholders to improve delivery efficiency, ensure worker safety, and minimise disruptions caused by pick-ups and drop-offs at various developments.
Looking ahead, the Tripartite Workgroup plans to showcase proposed solutions to improve last-mile deliveries at an exhibition at the end of the year as part of URA’s Draft Master Plan 2025 public engagement.
