As a courier your job would be to collect packages, documents and messages, and deliver them to customers. You would usually work in and around large towns and cities. You could also work on cross-country deliveries. So if you like driving and want a job that gets you out and about, this could be just what you are looking for.

Tasks:

• collecting the schedule of pick-up points and delivery addresses from your depot
• planning routes and sorting packages into dropping-off point order
• finding the quickest route to delivery addresses
• signing for packages that you pick up and getting signatures when delivering them
• keeping paperwork and delivery records up to date.

Key skills:

• an enjoyment of driving, motorcycling or cycling
• excellent driving skills and road sense
• good communication skills
• good English and maths skills for keeping delivery and expenses records
• the ability to work to tight schedules
• the ability to work unsupervised
• a pleasant manner, reliability and honesty
• good geographical knowledge and the ability to read maps and plan routes
• a reasonable level of fitness.

Average salary (2014):

The United Kingdom:Starting salaries are around £12,000 to £14,500 a year.

Qualifications and training required:

You do not need formal qualifications to become a courier, but employers tend to look for good English and maths skills, which are needed for dealing with paperwork and following directions. Good geographical knowledge would also be useful.

You would need a current driving licence for the vehicle you will be driving and a good driving record (employers may accept a small number of points on a licence). If you want to work as a motorcycle courier, you would normally need your own motorbike.A basic knowledge of vehicle maintenance could help you when looking for work.

Some courier firms may offer an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers.

Source: nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk