What is Uber Eats
Service overview
Uber Eats is an online food delivery marketplace that connects customers with local restaurants and delivery partners through a mobile app and website.
The platform lets users browse menus, place orders, pay electronically, and track deliveries in real time.
Common uses
Customers use Uber Eats for single orders, promotions, and subscription benefits such as reduced delivery fees.
Businesses use the platform to receive orders and reach local customers without running their own delivery fleet.
How to cancel Uber Eats
Cancel an active order (in-app)
- Open the Uber Eats app or website and go to the order tracking screen.
- Tap the "Cancel Order" button while the merchant has not yet accepted or started preparing the food.
- Confirm the cancellation when prompted to complete the process.
When to contact support
- If you cannot cancel in-app (for example, after acceptance), use the app’s help or support flow to request assistance.
- Keep screenshots and order details ready if you need a refund or escalation.
What happens when you cancel
Timing and merchant preparation
If you cancel before the merchant has begun preparing your items, the cancellation is usually processed without a charge.
Once the merchant has started preparing the order - or delivery has begun - charges are generally applied in full.
Access, renewal and data
Cancelling a single order does not affect any subscription you hold (Eats Pass or Uber One); you must cancel subscriptions separately.
Order history and receipts remain available in your app account after cancellation for records or disputes.
Will I get a refund?
Platform policy and typical timing
Where appropriate - such as when orders are not delivered as expected - Uber Eats may issue refunds or other resolutions.
Refunds can take time to appear in your account; reports indicate they may take up to 10 business days to reflect.
Legal protections and exceptions
- Under South Africa’s Electronic Communications and Transactions Act (ECTA), consumers may cancel certain service transactions within seven days and are entitled to a full refund within 30 days.
- Under the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), you may also be entitled to remedies if the service or goods are of unacceptable quality or not delivered on time.
Uber Eats plans and pricing
Subscription pricing table
| Plan | Price | Period | Features |
| Eats Pass | R29.90 | Monthly | R0 delivery on orders ≥ R80 from participating restaurants; exclusive offers; cancel anytime |
| Uber One | R50.00 | Monthly | Unlimited R0 delivery and up to 0% service fees on eligible food & grocery orders; includes ride benefits |
| Uber One | R500.00 | Annual | Same benefits as monthly Uber One (unlimited R0 delivery, 0% service fees, ride benefits) |
Notes on pricing and changes
Eats Pass was offered recently at R29.90/month and has been replaced in many markets by Uber One at the listed rates.
Subscription features, availability and pricing can change; check your app for the latest plan details and terms.
Your consumer rights in South Africa
Cooling-off period (ECTA)
Under the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act (ECTA), consumers generally have a seven-day cooling-off right for certain service agreements, allowing cancellation without penalty.
Refunds under this right must typically be issued within 30 days of cancellation.
Read more: ECTA cooling-off information
Service quality and other remedies (CPA)
The Consumer Protection Act requires services to be performed with reasonable care, in good time, and to an acceptable standard.
If delivery is late, incorrect or unsatisfactory, you may be entitled to a remedial remedy, refund, repair or replacement as appropriate.
Read more: Consumer rights overview
Customer experiences
Positive feedback
- Many users find the app interface simple and integrated with other Uber services, reporting easy online payments and convenience.
- Some customers report satisfactory support and good value from promotions and subscription benefits.
Learn more: user reviews
Negative feedback and common problems
- Frequent complaints include long delivery times, cold or incorrect orders, and inconsistent ETAs.
- Many users report difficulties with refunds, delayed refunds, or being charged after attempting to cancel.
Read user reports and ratings
Documentation checklist
What to keep after cancellation
- Order number, merchant name, items ordered, and timestamps (order placed, accepted, prepared, cancelled).
- Payment receipt or card statement line showing the charge.
- Screenshots of the order screen, cancellation button, and any in-app messages from support.
When to escalate
- If a refund is delayed beyond the stated timeframes, keep all communication records and request escalation through the app.
- If platform escalation fails, you may refer to your bank for chargeback options or seek advice from consumer protection bodies.
Common mistakes
Waiting too long to cancel
Many customers attempt to cancel after the merchant has started preparing the food and are surprised to be charged in full.
Cancel as early as possible and check the app’s order status before relying on a free cancellation.
Poor documentation and late escalation
Not saving receipts, screenshots or timestamps makes it harder to prove a late or incorrect delivery when requesting a refund.
Escalate within the app early and keep records if you expect to involve your bank or a consumer protection agency.
Comparative recap
Quick outcome comparison
| Aspect | Cancel before preparation | Cancel after preparation/delivery | Subscription cancellation |
| Typical charge | No charge (free cancellation) | Full charge likely | No further renewals after cancellation; existing period may remain active |
| Refund timeframe | Immediate to a few days | May take up to 10 business days or longer for disputes | Refunds depend on policy; subscription may not be refundable for past periods |
| Remedy under law | Standard cancellation rights apply | Consumer Protection Act remedies may apply for poor service | ECTA cooling-off may apply to some service agreements |
How to use this recap
Use the table to decide whether to cancel immediately or to document and escalate if charged after preparation or delivery.
Refer to the legal links below for steps on asserting your consumer rights if needed.
After cancelling
Follow-up steps
- Check your payment method for any pending or refunded amounts and keep records of timing.
- If you do not receive a refund in a reasonable time, use the app’s help flow to escalate the issue with supporting documentation.
Helpful resources
For guidance on refunds and consumer rights, see South African resources for cooling-off rights and consumer protection.
ECTA: cooling-off period details
Consumer guidance and remedies (CPA)
Example article on order/refund issues
Address
Registered office
OFFICE 105, Parktown Quarter, corner Third and Seventh Avenue, Parktown North, Gauteng, 2193, South Africa.
Notes on contacting
Use the app’s help and support channels for fastest response about specific orders or refunds.
If required, keep the registered office address for formal correspondence or legal notices.