Delivery robots have become a noticeable presence in several U.S. cities, particularly in Jersey City, New Jersey, where companies like Avride and Coco Robotics have deployed fleets in partnership with delivery platforms such as Uber Eats and Grubhub. Since their introduction last year, these robots—roughly the size of large coolers on wheels—have stirred a mix of reactions ranging from amusement to concern among residents, business owners, and delivery workers.
The robots operate at walking speed, using sensors and cameras to navigate sidewalks, avoid obstacles, and comply with pedestrian traffic rules. When faced with significant obstructions, they can summon remote assistance from human operators. Recently, a yearlong pilot program began in Hoboken, New Jersey, allowing both Avride and Coco Robotics to each operate 10 units in a limited area near the city’s train station. Hoboken officials hope this initiative will ease congestion caused by delivery vehicles, while also earning the city roughly $6,000 for use of public spaces during the trial.
Some locals find the robots endearing, noting their cautious and sometimes "humanlike" behavior as they pause in groups or stop for crosswalks. Social media users have shared moments of the robots struggling with snow or accidents, which many find charming. Yet, this mechanized presence has also generated frustration. Residents with strollers, like Charlotte Austin of Jersey City, have described the robots as sidewalk blockers that force pedestrians into tight spots. Meanwhile, delivery cyclists and drivers express safety concerns.
In October, one Jersey City cyclist, Conor Shannon, said he collided with an Avride robot, suffering injuries including a broken clavicle and concussion. According to Shannon, the robot continued moving after the collision and was only stopped by bystanders. He has indicated plans to sue over the incident, arguing that the robots’ size and speed make them difficult to see and that their current state poses safety risks. Avride declined to comment on the specific crash but emphasized that safety is their top priority as they expand operations.
The debate over delivery robots extends beyond New Jersey. In cities like Chicago and Philadelphia, the machines have faced vandalism and calls for regulatory pauses amid worries over their safety and impact on human jobs. Researchers attribute this resistance partly to broader anxieties about automation replacing workers and growing skepticism toward artificial intelligence’s role in everyday life.
At the same time, some restaurant owners appreciate what the robots offer. Nina Colon, general manager of Left Bank Downtown in Jersey City, praised the robots' patience compared to human couriers, while Russell Basile, owner of Basile’s Pizza, favors the robots’ reliability but worries about the employment consequences for delivery staff. Delivery companies argue that demand for food delivery exceeds the available human workforce, positioning robots as a necessary complement.
Human couriers themselves remain cautiously dismissive of the robots’ efficiency. Abdelrahman Metwaly, a delivery cyclist in Jersey City, pointed out that his bike speeds up to 20 miles per hour, far surpassing the robots’ five miles per hour maximum, and highlighted their limitations in navigating complex urban environments.
As delivery robots continue to roll out, communities and stakeholders face ongoing questions regarding their integration, safety, and social impact. The Hoboken pilot and other trials across the country will likely inform future regulations and public acceptance of this emerging technology.