Uber in Chicago has shifted to being handled systematically vs manually. The system is now processing the names and phone numbers, and we should see more accurate location information being used to better transport crews.
Some employees have their primary phone number opted out, so the system automatically goes to the secondary phone number on file with CMS. If you don’t want the secondary phone number to be used, you can simply opt out with that number.
It is recommended that if you wish to receive messages and calls from Uber when a ride is called for deadhead transportation, Employees should opt in their primary phone number by texting START to 1-415-237-0403. Uber-UP phone numbers are encrypted, the Uber driver doesn’t know your number as everything is anonymized. The phone numbers are exclusively used for operational purposes and not marketing.
By opting in they
- can track their Uber ride knowing how far out they are
- know what vehicle to get into, know the drivers name and what they look like
- know what time they will get to their destination
- can verify their destination
In addition, with this new update if they are an inbound crew waiting to be relieved, they will know exactly when their relief crew will arrive and where they are.
As always, feel free to contact one of your union representatives if you have any questions.