Liangjiang establishes alliance to empower delivery workers

Fan Shulin, an SF Express service point manager, has enrolled his facility in a workers' alliance initiated by the Dazhulin sub-district administration in Liangjiang New Area. 

The alliance supports workers, particularly those in package and food delivery sectors. As a logistics professional with six years of experience, Fan believes the alliance reflects the government's dedication to improving conditions for delivery workers. 

While new forms of employment become a driving force of China's economic development, 84 million workers in new job types grapple with high work intensity, insufficient protection, and low social recognition. 

SF Express, China's first-tier logistics solution provider, has a reputation for high-standard services and competitive transit time, with its fastest service delivering packages between major domestic cities within seven hours. 

Fan's service point employs over 40 delivery workers to serve two industrial parks. Fan said his colleagues face demanding routines: orders must be collected within an hour and dispatched in two. Each handles a daily average of 120 to 130 packages, with shifts stretching up to 12 hours. The schedule means inadequate time for family, particularly caring for children after school. 

Workers handle packages at Fan's service point. [Photo by Guo Shuyu] 

The alliance has already made tangible impacts. One colleague of Fan, a financially struggling father of three, enrolled his kids in a free daycare offered by the alliance. "I felt touched when his kid was so happy, saying 'Finally, I can join the daycare just like my classmates do,'" said Fan. He believes services provided by the alliance help address employees' concerns and enhance a sense of belonging. 

Chen Feng, Party secretary of Dazhulin sub-district, said the alliance coordinates resources from hospitals, law firms, traffic police, and financial institutions to protect workers’ lawful rights and interests. 

Additionally, 21 locations, including commercial spaces and government service centers, offer delivery workers rest areas with charging stations, toilets, and other facilities. Plans are underway to expand the network to include more market entities such as banks and gas stations, offering decent spaces for delivery workers to take a break during their rides.

Fan emphasized the importance of these spaces, especially during the upcoming summer when the temperature in Chongqing can exceed 40 C. Delivery workers need a place where they feel welcome and respected to rest and avoid the scorching heat. 

A resting space at a China Unicom service center on Jianzhu Road for delivery workers. [Photo by Guo Shuyu]

Career transition is another hurdle faced by delivery workers, most of whom are under-educated. Fan explained package delivery is physically demanding, which could be quite challenging as workers age. 

Some multi-business companies try to tackle the issue by providing suitable positions for senior employees, such as security positions in their property management sector. However, the problem remains unsolved for companies specializing in delivery services. 

Fan said it is critical for delivery workers to acquire new skills and consider other career paths at some point. To support this, the alliance has partnered with a local university to offer tailored courses for delivery workers seeking career transitions.

Chen said that by providing support and protection, the alliance aims to raise social awareness and recognition, foster an inclusive environment for delivery workers, and ensure they feel a sense of belonging and are respected.