Courier
What is the work like?
As a courier, or dispatch rider, you would collect items, such as packages, documents and messages, and deliver them to customers. You would normally work in larger towns and cities, although you could work on cross-country deliveries.
You day-to-day tasks would include:
- collecting the schedule of pick-up points and delivery addresses from your depot
- planning routes and sorting packages into order of dropping-off points
- finding the quickest route to delivery addresses
- signing for packages that you pick up and taking signatures when delivering them
- keeping paperwork and delivery records up to date.
You would usually drive a van or ride a motorcycle, but in some larger cities you could work as a cycle courier.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You do not need any specific qualifications to become a courier, but employers tend to look for good English and maths skills, which you would need to deal with relevant paperwork and for following directions.
You normally have to be over 17, although some employers may prefer you to be over 21 (25 for van drivers) for cheaper insurance premiums.
You would need a current driving licence for your vehicle, and a good driving record. If you want to work as a motorcycle courier, you would normally need your own motorbike.
A basic knowledge of vehicle maintenance could be an advantage, and foreign language skills could be useful if your job involves overseas deliveries.
What further training and development can I do?
You may be encouraged to work towards NVQ Level 2 Carry and Deliver Goods, which includes units on:
- safety and security
- customer service
- planning routes and delivery times
- transporting goods and materials.
You could also take an NVQ in Customer Service.
See the Skills for Logistics website for more details about courier work and the qualifications that can be taken on the job.
Where can I go for more information?
14 Warren YardWarren Farm Office Village
Stratford Road
Milton Keynes
MK12 5NW
Tel: 0870 242 7314
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries are around £11,500 to £13,000 a year.
- Experienced couriers can earn between £14,000 and £20,000 a year.
- Motorcycle couriers in the London area can earn up to £23,000, although part of this will be taken up by fuel, insurance and equipment costs.
Many companies offer bonuses for full attendance and/or delivering a certain number of items.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
Your average working week in a full-time job would be around 40 to 48 hours. This may include evenings, weekends or shifts, depending on the type of deliveries. Part-time work is often available.
As a motorcycle or cycle courier, you would mainly work in city centres and surrounding areas. If you work as a van courier, you may have to spend short periods away from home, as some companies deliver goods across the country and overseas.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- an enjoyment of driving, motorcycling or cycling
- excellent driving skills and road sense
- good communication skills
- good English and maths skills to keep delivery and expenses records
- the ability to work to tight schedules
- the ability to work alone
- a pleasant manner, reliability and honesty
- good geographical knowledge and the ability to read maps and plan routes
- a reasonable level of fitness.
What opportunities are there?
You could find work with local and national delivery firms, small businesses like copy-design shops, and large organisations that offer a delivery service.
You could be employed on a fixed wage, or work on a freelance basis. Most of the opportunities for couriers are in the major towns and cities.
With experience, you could become a depot controller or start your own courier business. You could also take up LGV driving if you complete the driver training and get a licence.
You may find the following useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
Jobs in Transport
Transport Jobs Network
Careers in Logistics
Postal Services Commission (links to licensed mail operators)
We do not accept responsibility for the content of external sites.
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