Did you know that couriers can make an average of £32,000 per year from their vehicles? That’s around £16.50 an hour.
With online shopping and food delivery services more popular than ever, there’s never been a better time to consider a career as a courier driver. Whether you’re delivering parcels or food, this guide will help you weigh up the ins and outs of the courier industry.
The Typical Life of a Courier Driver
Becoming a courier offers flexibility and the freedom to work for yourself. Who doesn’t love being in control of their own schedule, and deciding when and where you work?
While this freedom is a major perk, it’s important to plan your time effectively to avoid burnout. Balancing your workload with downtime can be challenging but achievable. For example, many drivers choose to work during peak hours to maximize earnings while reserving other parts of the day for family or personal pursuits.
Perhaps you only want to work weekends or evenings? It’s all possible with a courier job.
Where to Find Courier Jobs
Finding courier work doesn’t have to be complicated. Below are some of the best platforms to kickstart your search:
Job Boards
- Indeed, Total Jobs, Monster, and Google Jobs: These general job boards regularly feature courier roles in various locations. Set up alerts to get notified about new postings in your area.
- Courier Exchange: The UK’s largest courier marketplace, where you can bid on jobs, set your rates, and work to your schedule. Courier Exchange lists over 13,000 loads daily, so it’s a great resource for finding opportunities tailored to your preferences.
Courier Company Platforms
Many companies offer their own platforms for onboarding new drivers. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Evri (formerly Hermes)
- DPD
- Yodel
- InPost
- Uber Eats
- Just Eat
- Amazon Flex: Amazon Flex allows you to choose when you work and how often.
Want more info about Amazon Flex? Check out our FAQs about driving for Amazon Flex.
Networking and Community Resources
- Online forums and Reddit: Communities like r/Couriers or industry-specific forums are great places to connect with other drivers for advice and job leads.
- Hubs and depots: Chat with other drivers at delivery hubs or even at customers’ doors to learn about new opportunities.
Courier Jobs vs. Royal Mail
You might wonder why you should choose courier work over Royal Mail. While working for Royal Mail offers a steady schedule and benefits, being a courier gives you the flexibility to set your hours, take on as much or as little work as you want, and control your earning potential. It’s an entrepreneurial role where you’re essentially your own boss.
Earning Potential for Courier Drivers
Your earnings will depend on several factors, including the company you work for, how many routes you take, and your expenses. Here’s what you can expect:
- Hourly Pay: Typically between £10 and £16 per hour.
- Annual Salary: Ranges from £21,000 to £32,000, according to Glassdoor and Talent, and Indeed.
- Freelance Earnings: Some couriers report earning up to £16.50 per hour by carefully planning their schedules and maximizing delivery loads.
Shift Length and Flexibility
As a courier, you’re in control of your schedule. Many drivers work 20-40 hours per week, but you can customize your shifts to suit your lifestyle. For example, Amazon Flex lets you choose whether you want to work full-time or part-time. This flexibility makes courier work an excellent option for people balancing other commitments.
Tips for Success as a Courier Driver
- Vehicle Maintenance: Regularly check your vehicle’s condition, ensure you have an up-to-date MOT, and address any issues promptly.
- Insurance: Make sure your courier insurance covers both business and personal use. Our courier insurance offers market-leading coverage that’s quick and easy to arrange online.
- Networking: Stay connected with other drivers and industry professionals for job leads and support.
- Time Management: Plan your routes efficiently to save on fuel and maximize your earnings.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a courier can be a rewarding and flexible career choice. With so many platforms and companies offering opportunities, it’s easier than ever to get started. Whether you’re looking for full-time work or a part-time side hustle, the courier industry has something for everyone. Just remember to keep your vehicle in top shape, stay insured, and prioritize work-life balance to make the most of your courier career.
Ready to hit the road? Get your courier insurance quote today and start earning from your vehicle in no time!
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Image - Photo by Kampus Production
