Delivery driver handing package to customer at door

Delivery driver holds package at doorstep at twilight, a common scene in Brazilian cities with the growth of e-commerce.

About this subject

In Brazil, the delivery driver has become ubiquitous on the streets, especially with the explosion of e-commerce during the Covid-19 pandemic. According to the Brazilian Electronic Commerce Association (ABComm), online sales grew 41% in 2020 and remained high in subsequent years. Twilight, the peak delivery time, is when many consumers receive their orders after work. The direct contact between driver and customer, as depicted in the image, reflects a logistics model that prioritizes doorstep delivery, common in residential neighborhoods. The scene also highlights the informality of the work: many drivers work as self-employed via apps, without formal employment, a topic of debates on labor rights in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is twilight a common time for deliveries?

Twilight coincides with the end of many consumers' workdays, who prefer to receive packages at home after business hours. Additionally, evening deliveries help avoid heavy traffic in large cities.

What is the relationship between delivery drivers and the app economy in Brazil?

Most delivery drivers work through digital platforms such as iFood, Rappi, and Loggi, without formal employment ties. This model generates controversy over labor rights, as professionals bear transportation costs and lack benefits like paid vacation or a 13th salary.

How has e-commerce impacted the number of deliveries in Brazil?

Brazilian e-commerce moved R$ 268 billion in 2023, according to ABComm, with over 400 million orders. This boosted demand for delivery drivers, who became essential for urban logistics.