1. Early Start: Loading and Route Planning
Most delivery drivers start their day between 6am and 8am. If you’re working for a company like DPD or Evri, you’ll collect parcels from a local depot. App-based couriers (like Amazon Flex or Gophr) often start by accepting blocks or jobs through their phone.
A good morning routine sets the tone for the entire day. Drivers usually:
- Check vehicle condition and fuel levels
- Load parcels in delivery order
- Use route optimisation apps to plan the most efficient route
- Review delivery instructions and customer notes
Time spent planning upfront saves hours on the road later.
2. Morning Deliveries: Getting into Flow
Once the route is loaded, it’s time to hit the road. Morning deliveries tend to be the busiest, especially in city areas where parking can be tight.
Efficient couriers know their local areas well — side streets, shortcuts, and customer preferences all make a difference. Many aim to complete around 40–60% of their deliveries before midday.
Staying calm and focused helps maintain accuracy and speed, even when traffic or weather gets in the way.
3. Midday Break and Quick Refuel
After a few hours on the road, most drivers take a short break for food and rest. Couriers often bring packed lunches or quick snacks to save money and time.
Apps like PetrolPrices or Google Maps help find convenient fuel stops along your route. Smart planning means you’re never caught out during a busy period.
4. Afternoon Deliveries: Managing Volume and Fatigue
The afternoon rush usually involves bulkier or longer-distance deliveries. By now, efficiency matters more than speed — small delays can build up fast.
Successful couriers manage their energy carefully, pacing themselves through the afternoon and staying hydrated. Using hands-free phone mounts and navigation tools keeps the focus on safety while maintaining productivity.
5. Customer Interactions and Professionalism
Customer contact is a big part of courier work. Whether you’re delivering to homes or businesses, communication and presentation count.
Always greet customers politely, confirm names when handing over parcels, and handle goods with care. A professional attitude earns positive reviews and repeat work — especially for self-employed couriers building long-term relationships.
6. Evening Drop-Offs and End-of-Day Admin
By late afternoon or early evening, most routes are wrapping up. Couriers often return to the depot for any undelivered parcels or to close out jobs on their app.
End-of-day tasks typically include:
- Reporting any failed deliveries
- Checking next-day routes or jobs
- Filling out expense logs and mileage trackers
- Reviewing earnings for the day
A clean finish makes the next day easier and keeps performance consistent.
7. Typical Earnings per Day
A typical UK delivery driver earns between £100–£160 per day, depending on vehicle type, route length, and efficiency. App-based couriers can earn £14–£20 per hour in busy cities.
Peak season (November to January) can boost earnings significantly, especially with overtime or weekend work.
8. Challenges on the Job
Courier work is rewarding, but it’s not without challenges. Common issues include:
- Traffic delays and parking restrictions
- Unclear delivery instructions
- Physical strain from lifting and carrying parcels
- Weather conditions and long driving hours
With experience, these challenges become easier to manage — efficiency and routine are your best tools.
9. Why Couriers Love the Job
Despite the pace and pressure, many couriers enjoy the freedom of the role. You’re your own boss, spending most of the day outdoors, meeting people, and moving constantly.
Unlike office jobs, courier work rewards effort directly — the harder and smarter you work, the more you earn. Every day is different, and that keeps things interesting.
Key Takeaway
A day in the life of a UK delivery driver is fast-paced, active, and rewarding. It’s a mix of planning, problem-solving, and customer service — all while staying independent on the road. With good organisation and consistency, it can offer both flexibility and strong earning potential. If you like freedom and movement, courier work could be the perfect fit.
