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What does a Delivery Driver do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A delivery driver is responsible for picking up and dropping off packages at various locations. They may also be responsible for loading and unloading the packages from the delivery vehicle.

Delivery Driver job duties include:

  • Drive vehicle to transport goods or passengers
  • Load and unload cargo or passengers
  • Follow routes and time schedules
  • Inspect vehicles for mechanical items and safety issues and perform preventative maintenance
  • Plan trips using maps and GPS
  • Obtain receipts or signatures for delivered items
  • Receive payments for goods delivered
  • Help customers load and unload items
  • Provide excellent customer service

Delivery Driver Job Requirements

A delivery driver typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require a commercial driver's license (CDL). Some companies may require previous experience, and many provide on-the-job training.

Delivery Driver Skills

  • Time management
  • Being able to work quickly and efficiently
  • Being able to follow directions
  • Good customer service skills
  • Being able to lift heavy packages
  • Having a clean driving record
  • Being organized
  • Knowing how to use GPS
  • Being able to drive in all types of weather conditions
  • Having good problem solving skills
  • Being able to work well under pressure

Related: Top Delivery Driver Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Delivery Driver

There are many reasons why someone might want to become a delivery driver. Perhaps they enjoy being on the road and interacting with different people throughout the day. Maybe they like the challenge of trying to beat traffic and getting the delivery to the customer on time. Or, it could be that they simply enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done when they hand over a package to a happy customer. Whatever the reason, becoming a delivery driver can be a great career choice.

There are a few things that anyone interested in becoming a delivery driver should keep in mind. First, it is important to have a clean driving record. Most companies that hire delivery drivers will not do so if the applicant has any recent speeding tickets or accidents on their record. In addition, delivery drivers must be able to pass a background check. This is because they will often be carrying valuable items and need to be trusted with access to people’s homes and businesses.

Next, it is helpful if delivery drivers are familiar with the area in which they will be working. They should know the best routes to take in order to avoid traffic and get their deliveries to their destination on time. They should also be familiar with any special instructions for each delivery, such as whether or not the customer will be home when the package arrives.

Finally, it is important for delivery drivers to have good customer service skills. They will be interacting with customers throughout the day and need to be able to handle questions and concerns in a professional and friendly manner. Those who are patient and polite, even when dealing with difficult customers, will be more successful in this career than those who are not.

Becoming a delivery driver can be a great way to earn a living while enjoying the freedom of being on the open road. Those who are responsible, detail-oriented, and good with people will likely find success in this career.

Related: Delivery Driver Resume Example

Related: Delivery Driver Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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