How to Become a Courier

A courier is someone who collects and delivers goods. The benefit of using a courier over delivering items through other means (such as by post) is that it will get to its destination much quicker.

It is also a useful service if an item is of a particularly high value, fragile or outweighs the normal parcel dimensions and weight.  There is also the fact that courier’s will usually offer a recording of information, which can make their clients feel more confident about their services.

To become a courier there are no formal qualifications or training.  There are however, certain skills that will be required of you:

• Good map reading and navigational skills – you shouldn’t just rely on satellite navigation systems, you need be able to read a map also.   If anything goes wrong with the SatNav it could mean running late on a delivery.
• Being able to stick to tight schedules – as you will be working alone most of the time (unless delivering large or heavy items), it will be up to you to keep within your timetable.  The point of using a courier service for many people is because of the efficient delivering.
• A good driver – having a full UK driving licence is essential, preferably with no penalty points.  Having to drive large vans most of the time will also mean you need to be a competent driver; parking and blind spots are difficult with bigger vehicles. 
• Being fit and healthy – Though you will be spending most of your time driving, it is important to be able to lift and carry heavy items, as this will be a frequent duty.
• Patience – waiting is often a part of the job with couriering, as well as the chance of absent customers.  There is also the fact that you will have to work around other people and their schedule, which might not match your own.

Being careful with the delivered goods – being heavy-handed or careless with the items that you are delivering is not an option.  If goods are not received in an excellent condition, the company will have to claim on their insurance.  Careless workers are not usually covered and if self-employed, might hinder your reputation.

Many couriers choose to go freelance, as there is such a high demand for the service.  This is due to the fact that there is so much money being spent buying items online.

The benefits of freelancing as a courier

There are many benefits to freelancing as a courier, for example, by freelancing for one or more clients at a time, you can often have more income than what you would expect from a full time salary.  You can use our Freelancer Calculator to work out exactly how much you could potentially take home as a sole trader.  There will be a lot more variety within your day-to-day business and job satisfaction. There is also the fact that you will be your own boss, meaning flexible hours to suit yourself as well as the freedom to work when, where and for however long you like.

Finding work as a freelance courier

There are two self-employed routes that you can go down; you will need your own van either way.  You can choose to take on work from another courier company, such as DHL, FedEx or UPS. This is called an ‘owner driver’ position, where you are still freelance but are tied to one particular company.

This can be a great way of getting a taste of the industry before starting your own business, as well as gaining experience and confidence.

If you decide to go it alone a strong client base is fundamental when it comes to both building and sustaining an excellent reputation for your own business – particularly when it comes to having a successful freelance career.

Self-promotion is a brilliant way of getting your name out there and attracting new clients.  Advertising your business either through a website, business cards and door-to-door flyers will all help toward building a wider range of clients.

Here are some suggestions on how to market yourself:

• Social networking sites such as Twitter, Linked In and Facebook are an effective and free way of advertising your business.  Linked In is designed specifically for businesses and professionals to create a network of co-workers and other associates. Also, make sure that your business profile includes a link to your website, as well as a good description of your services.
• Set up a professional website.  The website needs to be information rich about the services you offer, a price list, the areas you cover and contact details. Using a website builder such as Webs or Namesco Site Maker can make it both simple and quicker. 
• Advertise in your local newspaper / newsagents etc. This way you’re able to target specific areas and increase the amount of people who see your business without spending too much money.
• Give out business cards to friends and family.  This way they can hand them out to their friends; knowing that they know you personally means they will have more trust in you and your business.
• Advertise your business through free directory websites such as BT Tradespace or FreeIndex.  This ensures many people actively looking for your trade can easily come across it.