Delivery Driver - Frequently Asked Questions

In the most basic form, delivery drivers transport packages, food or other goods from a mail, warehouse or another facility to a personal or business address. Everything they do revolves around ensuring the products arrive at their destination on time and in good condition.

Some delivery drivers have a regular daily or weekly schedule, while others have different routes each day. They are responsible for loading and unloading cargo, following applicable traffic and safety laws, meeting delivery deadlines, and tracking shipments and deliveries.

Drivers also have to communicate regularly with dispatchers, other drivers, and team members, perform basic truck maintenance and keep their trucks clean, and obtain a client or customer signatures or payments when necessary.

Most employers require delivery drivers to have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, though few companies may waive this requirement as long as you have an excellent driving record. 

To be a delivery driver, you must first obtain a valid driver’s license. Having a clean driving record is key to being hired. Beyond your state driver’s license, there may be additional needs depending on the vehicle you’re operating, such as a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or HAZMAT endorsement.

Once you meet the education requirements and have the license(s) with good driving history, you should consider becoming licensed to drive other types of vehicles. Then, you should work to develop soft skills such as organization, time management, and communication skills. Once you feel prepared, you can apply for open delivery positions.

Requirements for a delivery driver role can vary by company, but many require the same basic things like:

• A high school diploma or equivalent

• A valid driver’s license

• Familiar with using navigation systems

• Excellent vision and hand-eye coordination

• Physical ability to load and unload cargo

• Experience providing great customer service

• Clean driving record

• Willingness to adhere to assigned routes, schedules, safety protocols, and all transportation laws

The company may ask for experience in performing specific tasks that are related to the particular job, or have additional licenses or endorsements depending on the type of vehicle you’ll be operating.

The job description should clearly outline requirements, but if you have questions, ask the hiring manager. 

A delivery driver’s pay rate depends on their level of experience, education, licenses, geographical location, and company they work for. On average, drivers make about $13 per hour, though that could range from $8 per hour up to $30 or more. 

Interview questions vary, but you can expect a mix of general questions, ones about your background and experience, and in-depth or job-specific queries. 

Knowing what types of questions may be asked, and preparing answers ahead of time, can help you succeed in your interview:

• Describe your driving and/or delivery experience. 

• How would you assist a customer who wasn’t satisfied with their delivery?

• What do you do to ensure orders are completed and delivered on time?

• Describe your ideal delivery process, from pick up to drop off.

• Describe a mistake you made at work, and what you did to resolve it. 

• What would you do if you were stuck in heavy traffic that would make you late for a delivery?

• What do you believe are important qualities/skills for a delivery driver?

There are several qualities and skills a good delivery driver will have to be successful in their role. Some of the best qualities or traits include:

• Friendly

• Efficient

• Safe

• Conscientious

• Patient

• Friendly

• Organized 

• Detail-oriented

• Reliable

• Google listener 

• Responsible 

• Good sense of direction

A delivery driver’s skills should focus on customer service, safe and effective driving, and time management. These can include:

• Time management

• Concentration

• Communication

• Problem-solving skills

• Navigation technology knowledge

• Knowledge of traffic laws and safety regulations

• Customer service skills

• Ability to work well with others

• Multitasking skills

• Planning skills

If you don’t mind spending most of your time in a vehicle, a delivery driver can be a great job option. Drivers visit a variety of people and communities, work hours can be flexible and sometimes you can make your hours, and you’ll never be spending time sitting at a desk or in an office.

There are also many different types of delivery drivers and companies to work for, so you’ll nearly always be able to find a position. In addition to good hourly wages, some services allow you to make tips for additional income.

Driving can be stressful, but if you drive safely and take care of your customers, you’ll likely be successful.

Delivery drivers can be either part- or full-time jobs depending on the company. Shifts are usually broken up into three, eight-hour days Monday through Friday, or six, four-hour days Monday through Saturday. 

Some drivers can set their schedule, and they can drive during the day or overnight if they prefer. 

Delivery drivers spend most of the time on the road, either in their vehicle or a company vehicle. This could be a car, van, or truck. Drivers have a physically demanding job, responsible for loading and unloading cargo, so they perform a lot of lifting, carrying, and walking. 

Delivery driving is typically a solo job, so you’ll be on the road by yourself more times than not. However, you still need to know how to work well with others when you pick up and drop off deliveries and interact with customers.