Delivery van driver
Transport

Related videos on a delivery van driver

How to become a delivery van driver

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Apprenticeship

You may be able to start in this job through an intermediate apprenticeship as an express delivery operative with a delivery company. This apprenticeship will take a minimum of 12 months to complete.

Apprenticeship (Entry requirements)

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

Direct application

You could apply directly to work as a delivery driver. Employers will expect you to have:

• basic English and maths skills
• a good driving record and the correct licence

More info

Career tips Having experience in storage or warehousing could be useful. Further information You can find out more about careers in parcel delivery from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport.

What it takes

Skills & Knowledge

You'll need:

• the ability to work well with others
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• customer service skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• sensitivity and understanding
• knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Restriction & Requirements

You'll need to:

• have a full driving licence

You'll need a licence for the type of vehicle you'll be driving and a good driving record. Your employer may supply you with a delivery van, but if you're self-employed you'll need your own vehicle.

What you'll do

Day to day

Your day-to-day tasks may include:

• collecting goods from a depot, warehouse or pick-up point
• loading the vehicle in an order that matches the deliveries you'll make
• planning the route
• greeting customers, getting signatures and giving invoices when you deliver
• recording mileage and fuel you buy
• updating delivery records
• returning undelivered items

Working environment

You could work from a vehicle. You may need to wear a uniform.

Career path and progression

Career path & progression

With experience, you could complete training for a large goods vehicle (LGV) licence for opportunities in freight transport and tanker driving. If you take specialist training, like defensive driving and personal security, you could drive vehicles containing cash and valuable items. You'd also usually need a Security Industry Association (SIA) licence for this.