Courier
Collect packages and letters using a van, motorbike or bike. Deliver the items as quickly as possible.
Also known as: messenger, dispatch rider
About the job
What it's like
You would collect packages, documents and letters from customers and use a van, motorbike or bike to deliver them quickly and reliably.
Most of your work would be for businesses which need to send something to another business or to a customer. The parcel may be urgently required or it may contain confidential documents that cannot be posted.
The package would probably need to be delivered as soon as possible after you pick it up.
You’d usually work in and around large towns and cities. But you could also work on cross-country deliveries.
You would:
Collect a schedule of pick-up points and deliveries from your depot
Plan routes and sort the jobs into order for dropping off the items
Find the quickest routes to delivery addresses
Sign for the packages that you pick up and get signatures when you deliver them
Keep paperwork and delivery records up to date
You’d usually drive a van or ride a motorcycle, but in larger cities you might work as a bicycle courier.
Explore more information about this job
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Postal delivery worker
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- resourceful
- developing a plan
- taking initiative
- time management
- reliable
- positive attitude
- resilience
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
You don't need to study any specific subjects to do this job. It's more important that you have relevant skills and experience.
No formal qualifications are required but most employers will value a good general education with English and maths. Some employers will ask for qualifications at SCQF level 4/5.
Qualifications and experience that demonstrate employability skills such as good time keeping and physical fitness.
A driving licence will be essential for some jobs.
You may need your own car, van, motorcycle or bicycle.
You may need to pass a Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Disclosure check for some jobs.
Find the right course for you
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