Now is the perfect time to get into the courier business. With more people shopping online and relying on home delivery services, there is a greater need for drivers and deliverers. Armed with a passion for driving and a little research, getting into the industry is quite simple.
Many people work for established businesses, but there has also been an increase in self-employed drivers and lifestyle couriers. Whether looking to join a business, start your own or just make a few extra quid in your spare time, learn how to make courier driving work for you.
Qualifications
All companies require drivers to have a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record (typically no more than six penalty points), and no criminal record. Many also require that their drivers be at least 18, and some even increase the age limit to 25.
A driver should have a strong familiarity with the working area and be comfortable driving and working odd hours. In addition to car insurance, drivers must have a courier insurance policy, such as goods in transit insurance for couriers. As with any job, courier drivers need to be professional at all times, have excellent communication skills, be customer service oriented and highly organised. Drivers should also be healthy and capable of lifting heavy objects.
Mode of Transportation
The location in which you live and where you work largely influences your mode of transportation. For those living in larger cities, getting around on a bicycle or motorcycle is often much easier and more cost-effective. Those in more suburban settings may have to use a car to reach their destinations. Additionally, the type of packages and work you will be transporting will determine your mode of transportation. A van is most typical and best for carrying larger parcels and packages as well as accommodating large workloads.
Where to Search
To gain a better understanding of the industry, it is best to begin working with an established organisation. Look for companies that are reputable and that treat their employees well. Several job sites make it easy to find courier work. If you are unsure whether the profession is right for you, try working part-time or as a freelance courier. Another great way to gauge your interest in the field is to start as a lifestyle courier. Today, some nationwide couriers make it possible for car owners to make door-to-door deliveries for clients.
Finding the Best Fit
Try to secure interviews with several companies before accepting an offer of employment. Some offer better salaries and provide vans, while others do not. Also, take into consideration the company’s rules and regulations. Some lifestyle courier vehicle insurance companies are lightly regulated and may not be able to handle accidents, claims and other complaints, so be careful and do your homework.
Look for courier insurance companies that provide drivers with comprehensive insurance packages and talk to those who have worked in the field or who work for a particular company to determine whether or not the job and company are a good fit.
Being a courier driver is a rewarding job. The flexibility, the ability to meet and interact with different people and the pay are just some of the many perks. While business may be slow initially, the more practice you have and the type of company you work for will contribute to a successful career.
Take time to find a courier vehicle insurance policy to suit your needs
Before you hit the road and start making deliveries, it’s important to ensure that you have a courier insurance policy that suits your needs. If you take goods from A to B, you’ll likely need hire and reward courier van insurance, while goods in transit insurance for couriers will help protect your cargo while you’re on the road.
If you’d like to compare courier insurance and speak to a professional, all you need to do is complete our courier insurance form or call a member of our team on 0330 808 1119. Our team is here to help you find an appropriate courier vehicle insurance policy so you can drive with confidence.