Living Off-Grid: A Shanghai Delivery Rider's Story
This article explores the experience of a delivery rider in Shanghai who has been living outdoors for two years, detailing his motivations, challenges, and future aspirations. He shares his story of working long hours, saving money, and striving for a better life.
Finding Shelter in the Forest
A delivery rider in Shanghai has been living in a small tent in a forest for two years, avoiding the cost of rent since the start of the pandemic. He uses this secluded spot to recharge and prepare for his work as a delivery person, finding it better than living under a bridge due to the reduced noise. The area, while hidden, is close enough to the city to allow for work.
Setting Up Camp
The rider's camp is equipped with basic necessities powered by a rented battery. He uses the battery to cook, charge his electric vehicle (used for deliveries), and power lights. He cooks using a rice cooker and relies on a bucket of water, bought for cooking purposes. Laundry is washed in a nearby river, despite its muddy condition.
Meals and Provisions
For lunch, he typically eats cucumber and egg soup. He uses electricity for cooking, emphasizing that he avoids using fire. He also has chili sauce available for meals.
Working as a Delivery Rider
The delivery rider describes his work delivering food for Meituan, a popular delivery service. He can earn between 100-200 yuan per day, but notes that it is possible to earn more by working in the city center. He mentions stories of riders earning large sums, but dismisses them as unrealistic.
Over-Saturation of the Delivery Market
He highlights that the delivery market in Shanghai is now saturated, with more riders than orders, especially outside peak times like Wu Gaofeng. This makes it difficult to earn a substantial income.
Factory Work vs. Delivery
The rider compares his current situation to working in a factory, where he could earn around 4,000 yuan a month. While he values the supposed freedom of delivery work, he acknowledges the instability and lower earning potential. Previously, he had earned much more, up to 20,000 yuan per month, a few years ago when demand was higher.
Encounters with Other Riders
He has met other delivery riders, including college graduates who have chosen delivery work over factory jobs due to perceived higher pay, or a desire to learn a craft.
Hardships and Motivations
He admits that living outside is difficult, but he is motivated by the desire to save 20,000 yuan per year to help his parents. He sold his house to cover medical expenses for his father, which cost around 200,000 yuan.
The Toughest Times
The most challenging times for him were spent working long hours, up to 15 hours a day, while living under a bridge.
Future Plans
Originally from Guangxi, the 37-year-old rider dreams of opening a restaurant with friends. He acknowledges the difficulties he faces, including being unmarried and struggling to save the money needed for a traditional wedding. He attributes this to his family's financial situation and past laziness, which have made it harder to find a wife now that he is older. He understands young people are now looking to save money, too.
A Common Thread: Dreams and Reality
The interviewer notes a strong connection with these young workers, recognizing their shared desire to achieve their dreams despite facing challenging realities. He wishes them well and expresses hope for their future success.