Chongqing - Fan Shulin, a manager at an SF Express service point — a leading logistics provider in China — has joined a workers' alliance launched by the Da Zhulin sub-district administration in Liangjiang New Area, Chongqing.
The workers' alliance provides tailored support for those in emerging employment sectors, particularly package and food delivery workers. With six years of experience in logistics, Fan sees the alliance as a sign of the government's commitment to enhancing conditions for delivery workers.
New forms of employment are playing a key role in driving China's economic growth. A few weeks ago, major food delivery platforms like JD and Meituan in China announced plans to provide social insurance benefits for their delivery riders. Both riders and experts believe this move will offer better protection for industry workers.
The latest All-China Federation of Trade Unions survey shows that 84 million people are part of new employment groups across various sectors. However, they continue to face challenges like heavy workloads, limited protections, and a lack of social recognition.
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 worker handles an average of 120 to 130 packages daily, often working up to 12-hour shifts. This demanding schedule leaves little time for family, making it especially difficult to care for children after school if the other parent is also employed.
Workers handle packages at Fan's service point. (Photo/Guo Shuyu)
The workers' alliance is already making a real difference. One of Fan's colleagues, a father of three facing financial struggles, was able to enroll his children in a free daycare class offered by the alliance.
"I was touched when his child happily said, 'Finally, I can join the daycare just like my classmates do,'" Fan shared. He believes the alliance's services not only ease employees' concerns but also foster a stronger sense of belonging.
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 address this issue by offering suitable roles for senior employees, such as security positions within their property management sector. However, the challenge remains unresolved for companies focused solely on delivery services.
Fan emphasized the importance of allowing delivery workers to gain new skills and explore alternative career paths. To support this, the alliance has teamed up with a local university to provide customized courses for those looking to transition to new roles.
In addition, 21 locations, including commercial hubs and government service centers, now provide rest areas for delivery workers. These spaces are equipped with charging stations, toilets, and other essential facilities. Fan stressed the importance of such areas, particularly with Chongqing's summer temperatures often exceeding 40℃. He highlighted that delivery workers need a welcoming and respectful place to rest and escape the intense heat.
Plans are underway to expand the network to include more market entities, such as banks and gas stations, which would offer decent spaces for delivery workers to take a break during their rides.
A China Unicom service center at Jianzhu Road set up a resting space for delivery workers. (Photo/Guo Shuyu)
Chen Feng, Secretary of the Party Working Committee of Da Zhulin Sub-district, said beyond childcare support, the alliance coordinates resources from hospitals, law firms, traffic police, and financial institutions to protect workers' lawful rights and interests.
Chen said the alliance aims to raise social awareness and recognition, create an inclusive environment for delivery workers, and ensure they feel respected and valued through support and protection.