1. Amazon Delivery Jobs — Flexible and Fast-Paced
Amazon offers two main types of delivery roles in the UK: Amazon Flex and Amazon DSP (Delivery Service Partner) jobs. Both allow you to deliver parcels directly to customers’ doors — but they differ in flexibility and commitment.
- Amazon Flex: Perfect for self-employed couriers with their own car or van. You choose your delivery “blocks” via the app and get paid per completed block, offering complete control over when you work.
- Amazon DSP: Full-time contracted roles working for one of Amazon’s partner companies. These drivers usually operate Amazon-branded vans and follow fixed daily routes.
Pay rate: £14–£18 per hour (Flex) or £120–£160 per day (DSP)
Best for: Drivers who want flexibility, quick setup, and the freedom to choose their hours.
Downsides: Earnings can fluctuate depending on demand and your local area, and delivery block availability is competitive in busy regions.
2. DPD Delivery Jobs — Structured and High Volume
DPD is one of the UK’s biggest parcel delivery networks, known for efficiency and scale. As a DPD driver, you’ll deliver between 60 and 100 parcels per day, typically from a local depot using a small or medium van.
You can work as a self-employed driver managing your own route, or as a franchisee operating multiple routes under the DPD brand. There are also employed positions that include benefits such as holiday pay and pension contributions.
Pay rate: £140–£200 per day
Best for: Couriers who prefer consistent routes, reliable earnings, and high-volume work.
Downsides: The work is physically demanding, with long shifts starting early in the morning and finishing late afternoon.
3. Tesco Delivery Jobs — Stable and Customer-Focused
Tesco offers employed delivery driver roles rather than self-employed contracts. You’ll deliver groceries from local stores to customers’ homes using company vehicles and follow set shifts.
The focus here is more on customer service and brand experience than parcel volume. You’ll enjoy steady hours, employee benefits, and a supportive work environment.
Pay rate: £12–£14 per hour
Best for: Drivers who want job security, fixed hours, and reliable pay.
Downsides: Less flexible than Amazon Flex or DPD self-employed work, but ideal for those who prefer structured employment.
4. Comparison Table — Amazon vs DPD vs Tesco
| Feature | Amazon | DPD | Tesco |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employment Type | Self-employed (Flex) or Partner contract (DSP) | Self-employed or Franchise | Employed |
| Pay Structure | Per delivery block | Per route / day rate | Hourly pay |
| Typical Earnings | £14–£18/hr or £120–£160/day | £140–£200/day | £12–£14/hr |
| Vehicle Type | Car or van (own vehicle) | Van (leased or provided) | Company van |
| Flexibility | High | Medium | Low |
| Workload | Varies by region | High volume, fixed routes | Light to moderate |
| Pros | Flexible hours, fast onboarding, independent | Reliable routes, good earning potential | Stable employment, benefits included |
| Cons | Variable income, competitive areas | Physically demanding, long hours | Limited flexibility, fixed shifts |
5. Which Courier Job Is Right for You?
If you want flexibility and independence, Amazon Flex is your best option.
If you prefer structure and reliability, DPD offers the most consistent routes.
And if you’re after stability and benefits, Tesco provides secure employment with predictable pay.
Each company suits a different lifestyle — choose based on how you want to work, not just how much you earn.
