Delivery driver jobs
Job in about 50 words:
Secure the freight, buckle up and hit the open road. Whether you're jockeying your green hatchback on a five-hour pizza run or piloting a box truck filled with holiday packages down snowy mountain roads, this is a job filled with action, adventure and blinking low fuel lights.
Job skills/requirements:
The good news is that your training will teach you everything you need to know to succeed on the job. But here are a few skills you should have from the get-go:
- A clean driving record: If the clerk at traffic court calls you by your first name, this probably isn't the right job for you. Even if you're licensed and your record is spotless, some employers require drivers to pass an additional driving test.
- Reliable vehicle and car insurance: If you'll be driving your own car – many employers provide vehicles – it shouldn't need a set of jumper cables and a priest to start every morning. Also, make sure your insurance is up to date and your policy is tailored for commercial use.
- Drug tests: Some employers require drug tests and physical exams to make sure you're fit (and sober) for the rigors of the road.
- Friendly demeanor: This is especially important if you're working for tips. At the end of the day, a smile and a kind word can mean the difference between a big wad of cash and some extra change for your cup holder.
- Urgency: Never sacrifice safety for speed, but realize this is a job that's very deadline-oriented. (If you need motivation, try Googling "Avoid the Noid.")
- Must be able to lift at least 30 pounds: That's without a spotter. If you have a bad back, sweat phobia or an allergy to physical labor, look elsewhere.
- Keen sense of direction: You should know how to read a map, or at least how to turn on your GPS.
- Age restrictions: Some employers may require that you be at least 18 years old so that you have adequate experience on the road. Hey, we're not all Ricky Bobby.
Expected hours:
About 10 to 25 hours a week.
Dress the part:
Company uniforms are often provided for delivery drivers. This may consist of a branded company shirt and matching pants of your own, or a full uniform complete with a hat and other exciting accessories. Just remember: When you're climbing in and out of your delivery vehicle all day, you'll be exposed to the cold and heat. In other words, keep a stick of deodorant handy in the glove box.
Job myth:
Delivery drivers only make their money from tips.
Negative! You'll also get a base hourly wage, and if you're using your own ride, you'll more than likely receive gas mileage/wear and tear reimbursement. This may require you to track your mileage, so be sure to keep a notebook and a pen handy to jot down your highway adventures.
Expert advice:
Here's a general tip from Ian Kennedy, a Fish Window Cleaning franchisee from Melbourne, Fla.:
"It is very important to complete the entire application. Never leave blanks. If you don't have an answer, state that and address why you don't. There is nothing worse than calling a candidate back and having to ask the same questions again. Thoroughness is very important."
Career path:
Those who start out as successful delivery drivers lay the groundwork for the following possible career moves:
- Courier ($15-plus an hour)
- Manager ($40,000 to $50,000/year)
- Franchise owner (The sky is the limit.)