Make Money Delivering: Become a Delivery Driver

Keen to learn how you can make money delivering? Here at Make, Save, Sell we’ve got the lowdown on how to become a delivery driver.

If you’ve got your own form of transport, such as a car, motorbike or bicycle, are fit and have some free time, then you might like to consider being paid to make deliveries. Today, we want everything delivered almost instantly, whether that’s a pizza or a dressing gown – and that means thousands of opportunities for flexible working for delivery drivers. Here’s how you could make money delivering.

Make money delivering: Getting started

As a starting point, in order to make money delivering, you’ll normally need some type of vehicle, unless you intend to walk. What you need depends on how much time you want to commit and also where you live. In London alone there are dozens of courier companies looking for casual delivery workers, and they’re mostly looking for bicycle riders. If you live in London or another large city, are fit, confident riding in traffic and have a good sense of direction then this would be a good fit.

If you live outside London, you’ll need a reliable car, van or possibly a motorbike. The larger your vehicle, the more flexible you can be when choosing what to deliver. You’ll also need a smartphone and a GPS. It’s also worth learning some basic maintenance such as changing a car tyre – or taking out membership of the AA! You’ll need to be over 18, as well.

Make money delivering: What does it involve?

Unless you’re working for a large company, such as Evri or DPD, courier work isn’t always regular, which is an advantage for some people as it means you can fit it in around other commitments or even around another job. If you want to make the maximum amount of money, though, it’s a good idea to sign up to several companies so you’ll get more offers of work. Remember, you don’t have to say ‘yes’ to everything if it doesn’t suit you. For food delivery companies such as Deliveroo, Just Eat or Domino’s, you’re most likely to be needed at lunchtimes, evenings and weekends.

You could also try going direct – for example, talk to your local takeaway restaurants or shops such as florists to see if they need an occasional hand with deliveries. These opportunities are likely to pay a little better, as well.

How much can you earn as a delivery driver? 

Most delivery companies (including Amazon and Deliveroo) pay around £10 to £15 an hour. Earnings aren’t guaranteed, though, but depend on how many deliveries you do. If you’re using motorised transport, you’ll also need to factor in your fuel and vehicle maintenance costs as you’ll be self-employed. Some companies, such as Evri (previously known as Hermes), offer discounted fuel and insurance packages. Most companies require you to work at least a two to four hour shift at once, and some ask you to work full days. As you’re self-employed, you won’t be entitled to any sick or holiday cover and you will have to keep your own records for tax purposes. You’ll also need to register as self-employed with HRMC, and complete a tax return every year.

Some companies will make an initial charge or ask for a deposit for equipment such as a uniform or electronic route planner.

If you work in a more rural area, you’ll normally be travelling the same route all the time and will become more efficient at working out the best roads and where you can leave parcels safely. This means you’ll gradually be able to increase your earning potential

Insurance needs to make money delivering

When it comes to insurance to make money delivering, this can be a complicated area. If you’re making your deliveries on behalf of a company (such as Amazon), you’ll normally be covered on their insurance while you are actually making the deliveries. Otherwise, you’ll need to inform your own vehicle insurance company that you are now working as a courier, and they may charge an additional premium. When you sign up with each courier company, check what their individual policy is.

Benefits of being a delivery driver

If you work as a self-employed delivery driver, there are various benefits to be had. For example:

Flexible hours – you can choose when you work, usually between about 7am and 10pm

You’re in control – you can plan your deliveries around other home, work or life commitments

No experience is necessary (aside from driving!) – although some companies may want to offer you free training

Use your local knowledge – you can benefit from your knowledge of the local area

Plus, some companies offer a ‘deliver more, pay more’ bonus, helping you keep motivated to deliver and earn more!