A delivery driver is responsible for transporting goods from warehouses, shops, or restaurants to customers' homes or businesses. The role involves loading and unloading vehicles, planning routes, and ensuring that all deliveries are made on time and in good condition. Delivery drivers may drive cars, vans, or larger lorries, depending on the type of goods being transported. Good customer service skills, a clean driving licence, and the ability to work independently are important for this job. The rise in online shopping and food delivery services has led to a steady increase in opportunities for delivery drivers across the UK.
Delivery drivers in the UK typically earn between £20,000 and £30,000 per year, depending on experience and employer.
There were around 330,000 delivery driver positions in the UK in 2023, with demand increasing due to growth in online shopping.
Full-time delivery drivers often work 35 to 48 hours per week, with some roles requiring early mornings, evenings, or weekends.
Delivers parcels and packages for courier companies, often working to tight delivery schedules in specific local areas.
Transports groceries from supermarkets to customers' homes, often working for large retailers or independent shops.
Delivers prescriptions and medical supplies from pharmacies to patients, focusing on timely and safe delivery of sensitive items.
Make sure you have a full UK driving licence appropriate for the vehicle you want to drive.
For most delivery driver jobs, you need a full UK Category B (car) licence for vans or cars, or a motorcycle licence for bike deliveries. For larger vehicles, such as lorries, you will need additional categories and may need to pass extra tests. Always check the job requirements to see what kind of licence is needed.
Employers often require good basic skills for record keeping and communication.
Many employers ask for a minimum of GCSEs in Maths and English at grades 3 to 4 (D to C), or equivalent. These skills are important for reading delivery instructions, communicating with customers, and handling paperwork. If you do not have these qualifications, you can take Functional Skills or GCSE resits at your local college.
Develop your driving skills and gain experience on the road.
Consider taking an advanced driving course or volunteering for local delivery work to build your experience. Employers value safe, reliable drivers with a good understanding of routes and traffic laws. You can also work in part time or temporary delivery roles to build up your CV.
Learn about local road networks and delivery routes.
Knowing your local area will help you deliver parcels more efficiently and avoid delays. Use online maps, sat navs, and route planning apps to improve your knowledge. Some employers may test your local knowledge during the interview process.
Write a CV highlighting your driving experience and relevant skills.
Focus on your driving licence, any experience with delivery or customer service, and your familiarity with local routes. Include references from previous employers or driving instructors if possible. There are many CV templates online specifically for delivery drivers.
Look for delivery driver vacancies online and in your local area.
Popular job sites include Indeed, Reed, and the websites of major delivery companies such as Royal Mail, DPD, and Amazon. You can also check local newspapers and recruitment agencies. Be prepared for an interview and a driving assessment as part of the application process.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Delivery Driver. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A Delivery Driver and a Postperson both involve transporting items from one location to another, often over similar distances. Both roles require good knowledge of routes, driving skills, and the ability to handle packages or mail efficiently and safely.
You can get into this job through:
You could apply to do an Express Delivery Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship in delivery or sorting, with a courier or postal firm.
These take around one year to complete and combine on-the-job learning with time at a training centre.
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
Royal Mail often recruit temporary staff. This can be a useful way for you to get some experience in the job before applying for a permanent role.
You can apply directly for postal delivery work. You'll need to be physically fit, a good timekeeper and be friendly and approachable.
You will also need a full driving licence if you want to work on van deliveries.
You can get more details about careers and training in postal work from Royal Mail Group.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
