Shenzhen is piloting an official relay food delivery system in Huaqiangbei Subdistrict to improve security and incomes for its last-mile runners, often older women informally contracted to carry delivery orders from riders to customers in tall buildings. [1]
The pilot began in November and was coordinated by the city’s social work authorities with delivery platform Taobao Flash. [1] Meituan introduced a similar relay service in the same location this month. [1]
Under the model, riders drop off and scan orders at relay stations. The orders are then sorted by floor and assigned to building runners, who scan a QR code to check in before making the final delivery. [1] Each run pays about 1.5 yuan, or roughly $0.2. [1]
Taobao Flash staff said the system addresses sites that are hard to serve by direct delivery. “There are many locations in the food delivery service that are difficult to pick up or deliver to,” a staff member said. “These locations may be enclosed or semi-enclosed, located on high floors, span large areas, or be subject to strict property management.” [1]
The model also requires the platform to buy accident insurance for runners, with coverage of up to 650,000 yuan, or about $95,000. [1]
Local authorities launched a monthslong survey in 2025 that found runners wanted more stable incomes, safety protections and a clearer dispatch system. [1]