Becoming a delivery driver: what do you need to know?

What does the job of a delivery driver entail?

The job of a delivery driver involves transporting goods from one point to another, on behalf of private or professional clients. It is practiced in various sectors:

restaurants;

e-commerce;

logistics;

food;

pharmacies, etc.

The goods to be delivered may be:

meals;

parcels;

equipment;

or documents.

The delivery driver follows a specific route, often determined by an application or delivery platform. They pick up the goods at a starting point (restaurant, warehouse, store) and deliver them to the recipient's address.

Depending on the type of deliveries and the area of ​​activity, different means of transport are used:

a bicycle;

a scooter;

a motorcycle;

a car;

a light commercial vehicle;

or a truck.

The delivery driver can work for:

a transport company;

a digital platform;

or as a self-employed individual.

In all cases, they organize their route, pick up the orders, check their contents, ensure they are in good condition, complete the journey, and deliver the package to the recipient.

Who can become a delivery driver?

Qualities needed to become a delivery driver

Several qualities can be useful for becoming a delivery driver, such as:

having a sense of organization;

knowing how to manage time;

being independent and meticulous;

being responsive;

having good interpersonal skills;

and having physical stamina.

Sense of organization

Managing several deliveries in a single day often involves logically planning one's movements. Reducing unnecessary trips, completing deliveries in the correct order, and respecting schedules requires a certain ability to structure one's route.

Time management

Meeting the deadlines set by platforms or clients remains a constant requirement. Between picking up the order and delivering it to the recipient, the timing is often tight. Anticipating traffic jams, preparation delays, or unforeseen events can make all the difference. A good command of the work pace is often observed among those who have been working in the profession for several months.

Autonomy and Rigor

The job is generally performed alone, without direct supervision during deliveries. Many delivery drivers organize their own days, prepare their equipment, manage their routes, and resolve minor daily incidents.

This autonomy requires a certain rigor in checking orders, following instructions, and managing the application used.

Responsiveness

Delivering in an urban or densely populated environment also means constantly adapting to:

unpredictable traffic;

incorrect addresses;

absent customers;

route changes, etc.

The ability to quickly make practical decisions while remaining calm is a real asset in ensuring the successful completion of the delivery.

Interpersonal Skills

Even if interactions are sometimes brief, the relationship with customers remains a real dimension of the job. A pleasant, respectful, and polite attitude contributes to a smooth and positive delivery experience.

Some professionals take care to add a human touch to each delivery, which can strengthen customer loyalty or improve their rating on a platform.

Physical Endurance

Depending on the mode of transport used (bicycle, walking, scooter, etc.), the activity can be physically demanding.

Making multiple trips, carrying loads, or facing difficult weather conditions requires a certain level of stamina.

Training to Become a Delivery Driver

Several training programs can prepare individuals to become delivery drivers, particularly for salaried positions in the transportation sector.

Among the most common qualifications are:

the CAP (Certificate of Professional Aptitude) Goods Delivery Driver;

the Professional Baccalaureate in Road Transport of Goods;

or the Professional Qualification Certificate (CQP) Delivery Driver for Beverage Distribution Services.

Some more comprehensive programs include:

the BEP (Vocational Studies Certificate) Driving and Services in Road Transport;

the BTS (Higher Technician Certificate) Transport and Logistics Services; or the DUT (University Diploma in Technology) in Logistics and Transport Management offer a broader perspective on the sector, with skills in organization, flow management, and logistics.

These training programs for becoming a delivery driver are not always required but can strengthen an application, particularly in large delivery companies.

What regulations apply to delivery drivers?

The activity of a delivery driver is not limited to the delivery itself: it also involves complying with a specific regulatory framework, which varies depending on the type of vehicle used, the nature of the products transported, and the mode of operation. Here are the main rules to know:

the driver's license;

health and safety regulations;

professional liability insurance;

vehicle insurance;

the National Register of Carriers (RNT);

and