Working as a courier driver in the UK can offer flexibility, competitive earnings, and opportunities to work independently or as part of a structured team. Here, we’ll explore some of the best courier companies, highlighting what they offer to drivers in terms of pay, benefits, and work environment.
1. Amazon – Flexible Earnings with Amazon Flex
Amazon Flex offers drivers the freedom to create their schedules and maximise their earnings. Through the Amazon Flex app, drivers accept “delivery blocks” with a specified delivery timeframe, allowing them to work as much or as little as they like. With pay rates between £13 and £15 per hour, Amazon provides a competitive option for self-employed couriers. However, drivers are responsible for personal costs, including fuel and maintenance, as Amazon Flex doesn’t provide employee benefits like sick pay or pension contributions.
- Pros: High flexibility, competitive hourly rate, quick payouts
- Cons: Personal expenses for vehicle costs, no employment benefits
- Best For: Those seeking part-time or flexible work to supplement their income
2. UPS – Stability with Competitive Pay and Benefits
UPS is a top choice for drivers seeking a stable, full-time career in delivery. With starting pay around £12.50 per hour and the potential for overtime, UPS provides competitive earnings and full employment benefits, including paid leave, pension, and sick pay. UPS drivers can expect a structured work environment, which appeals to those who prefer routine and stability over flexibility. The company is known for its supportive culture and dependable income, with annual earnings averaging around £30,000.
- Pros: Full-time benefits, stable income, predictable schedule, overtime options
- Cons: Limited flexibility, strict background checks and requirements
- Best For: Drivers interested in a long-term career with stable earnings and benefits
3. Royal Mail – Secure Employment with Consistent Work
Royal Mail offers reliable, full-time positions with hourly pay starting around £11 and potential yearly earnings of up to £30,000. Known for their strong reputation across the UK, Royal Mail provides job security, paid leave, pension contributions, and union support. Drivers typically handle local routes, which allows them to build familiarity within their area. This makes Royal Mail a great option for drivers seeking dependable, long-term work with steady hours.
- Pros: Job security, strong benefits, respected employer, routine routes
- Cons: Limited flexibility, physical demands of delivery
- Best For: Those looking for stable, full-time employment with strong benefits
4. DPD – Flexible Options with Potential for High Earnings
DPD combines flexibility with the potential for high earnings, allowing drivers to work part-time, full-time, or as self-employed couriers. Starting at £11 per hour, DPD’s pay structure lets drivers increase earnings based on volume and hours worked. DPD supports drivers with an efficient route optimization app, helping maximize daily deliveries and, in turn, income. Self-employed drivers handle personal expenses, but employed drivers enjoy stability and benefits, making DPD a versatile choice.
- Pros: Flexible hours, earnings potential, user-friendly delivery app
- Cons: Self-employed drivers cover personal expenses, variable workload
- Best For: Drivers seeking flexibility and control over their income
5. Evri (formerly Hermes) – Local Deliveries with Flexible Hours
Evri offers local, self-employed courier positions that allow drivers to control their schedules and workload. With pay around £10 per hour, Evri suits those looking for part-time or side income without a significant commitment. Drivers deliver within their local area, reducing travel costs, but they cover expenses for their vehicle, fuel, and insurance. Despite variability in earnings, many appreciate the freedom Evri offers.
- Pros: Flexible hours, local deliveries, control over workload
- Cons: Personal expenses for vehicle costs, variable earnings
- Best For: Part-time or flexible work seekers who value autonomy
Choosing the Best Courier Company for Your Needs
The ideal courier company depends on your priorities. If flexibility and independence are top priorities, Amazon Flex, DPD, and Evri provide freedom in scheduling. For stable income with benefits, UPS and Royal Mail offer dependable, full-time positions. Whether you’re looking for flexibility, a long-term career, or supplementary income, one of these top-rated courier companies may provide the right fit.
What should I look for when choosing a courier company to work for?
When choosing a courier company, consider factors such as pay rates, employment type (self-employed vs. employed), benefits offered, and work schedule flexibility. If you prefer a structured job with benefits, companies like UPS and Royal Mail are great choices. For flexibility, consider Amazon Flex or Evri, which allow you to set your own hours and control your workload.
Which courier company offers the highest pay for drivers?
Amazon Flex generally offers one of the highest hourly rates, ranging from £13 to £15 per hour. However, UPS and Royal Mail offer competitive annual salaries and employment benefits like pension contributions and sick pay, which may be more advantageous for those seeking full-time work with stability.
Do courier companies provide vehicles, or will I need my own?
Most self-employed roles, such as those with Amazon Flex, Evri, and DPD’s self-employed option, require you to have your own vehicle. Employed positions, like those with UPS and Royal Mail, often provide a company vehicle or require less personal vehicle use. Always confirm with each company what vehicle requirements apply.
Are there any additional costs for self-employed couriers?
Yes, self-employed couriers cover their own costs, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, insurance, and any required ‘hire and reward’ insurance upgrades. It’s essential to factor in these expenses to ensure the hourly pay rate will meet your financial needs.
How can I maximise my earnings as a courier driver?
To maximise earnings, consider working for companies that allow flexibility in hours, such as Amazon Flex and DPD, where you can increase your workload to boost income. Additionally, optimising your routes, managing fuel efficiency, and choosing peak delivery times can help increase your take-home pay.
Which company offers the best work-life balance?
For those seeking a strong work-life balance, Amazon Flex and Evri provide the most flexibility, allowing you to choose your hours. For full-time positions with predictable schedules, Royal Mail and UPS are ideal, offering a structured environment that many drivers find aligns well with personal and family life.
What are the requirements to work as a courier?
Most companies require a valid UK driving licence, a clean driving record, and a background check. You will also need specialist courier insurance, also known as hire and reward insurance. Some companies, like Amazon Flex, also require you to have a smartphone for managing deliveries. Certain roles may require business-use or ‘hire and reward’ insurance, particularly if you are self-employed.
How does Amazon Flex compare to Evri?
Amazon Flex offers higher pay, between £13 and £15 per hour, with scheduled “delivery blocks” for maximizing earnings, whereas Evri, at around £10 per hour, provides local routes that reduce travel time and expenses, suiting drivers who prefer community-based work and flexible hours.
