With recent rises in online shopping, delivery drivers have become essential workers, keeping our society running smoothly during the Covid-19 pandemic. Their main role is to ensure that the products we buy online get from point A to point B safely and without incident but this is not their only task. Couriers have a lot of responsibilities and there is huge demand for potential roles within the industry – so many, in fact, that it can be difficult to know how or where to start looking for work.
In this guide, we will walk you through how to get a delivery driver job, the benefits of the role, some frequently asked questions about the role and how you might be able to find employment with companies who need your services today!
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Where to begin
The first step to becoming a delivery driver is understanding the tasks and responsibilities that come with it. A delivery driver’s day can be long and varied, depending on the company you are working for. You may have to make deliveries in the morning, afternoon or evening depending on how many clients there are on a given day. As a delivery driver, you may also have to work weekends, so it is important that you are able to commit yourself fully if you want the job!
Roles and Responsibilities
Every company and delivery job will have their own unique and relevant set of job requirements. However, in general, in order to become a courier, there are some things that you should be aware of before taking on the role.
First, the industry is highly competitive and there are many people applying for each job so you will need to ensure that you stand out from the crowd. Make sure your full driving licence, required documents and CV are up to date, including relevant work experience, transferable skills and any qualifications you may have. It is important as a delivery driver to possess the ability to work unsupervised and with minimal guidance so if there is anything you can include as evidence that you are a capable, independent worker, make sure to include it.
Secondly, you will also need to have the right physical attributes in order to do this kind of work. This varies between delivery driver jobs as you can provide delivery services using a range of transport, for example car, motorcycle or bicycle. However, it is recommended that you are physically fit, able to carry heavy loads and have good eyesight for better road safety. These key requirements are in place for the good of the company hiring you as well as your own benefit so don’t be surprised if you are asked to complete a fitness test as part of the interview process.
Finally, most companies require delivery drivers to be at least eighteen years of age and have a valid, provisional licence or full driving licence as well as courier insurance. Many positions require the ability to work long hours, weekends and holidays and some also require couriers to pass a drug test and background check before starting employment. Some delivery companies provide their drivers with a company vehicle and cell phone. However, this is not always the case so if you are hoping to become a delivery driver, be prepared to have to source these yourself.
Is delivery driving profitable work?
Working hours and therefore, wages for couriers vary by employer and industry. On average, delivery drivers can expect to make between £17,000-£25,000 per year if working full time in this role. However, with more experience and hours worked, it is common for commercial driving jobs to offer more competitive salaries. The great thing about being a courier is that many positions are flexible, meaning you can be your own boss, decide your own working hours and therefore have greater control over the amount you are earning.
If you are wanting to make good money in a short period of time, some companies will hire part-time or seasonal staff to meet the increased customer demand during peak seasons. Ultimately the best way to boost your earnings is by completing as many deliveries as you can on any given day that you are working.
Above and beyond wages, there are a number of additional factors that will affect the amount of money you earn as a delivery driver. For example, if you have to use your own car as a work vehicle, the type of insurance you are required to have and the distance you are willing to travel per delivery. Again, these are often negotiable giving you the opportunity to tailor your work to fit around your schedule.
Training
The specialist training for the role of a delivery service worker can be very extensive. It covers all the necessary qualities and skills such as how to properly pack and load packages, how to drive safely, and awareness of traffic laws. The Service Club Delivery Academy offers a number of microlearning courses to cover all essential bases for anyone hoping to secure a role in this industry.
Finding Work
Now that you know what is required in order to become a delivery driver, how do you go about finding work? There are many companies who offer employment opportunities within the industry so it is important that you understand how to go about finding work in these different companies.
To begin, you should look at companies in your local area and see whether they are advertising for new drivers – this may be the best option if you want to stay close to home or need flexible hours so that you can fit training around other commitments such as work or studies. You can also search online for jobs which may be based further afield. There are a huge amount of resources available on the Service Club website to help you search and filter jobs by city.
The Application Process
Once you have found a role you would like to fulfil, it’s time to apply! Most companies who are looking for drivers will have recruitment information and required documents either on their website or available upon request. Take initiative and reach out to those you are interested in!
Make sure that you prepared all of your contact details so they can get in touch with you and have your CV and cover letter prepared in advance so you can easily demonstrate to potential employers why you are the perfect fit for the position.
Benefits
Driving for a living can be great job opportunity if you are looking for something that is varied and challenging. As a delivery driver, no two days are the same and you will have the freedom to work unsupervised and with unrestricted. This is a great opportunity to build your confidence and independence as well demonstrate to your employer that you are trustworthy, responsible and hardworking.
Being a courier is a great opportunity to build your social and communication skills too! You will have the opportunity to meet and interact with a huge range of individuals and making someone’s day with a highly anticipated delivery can be massively rewarding.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a job that offers the opportunity to meet new people, get paid well and work in an environment where your schedule is flexible, then delivery driving may be perfect. The requirements are minimal so it’s easy to get started. For more information on how Service Club can help you on your journey to becoming a delivery driver today check our latest blog posts.