1. Build Relationships with Local Businesses
Your first step to full-time courier work is building a base of loyal, local clients. These are small businesses that regularly move stock or documents — like garages, wholesalers, retailers, or print companies. They prefer using the same driver rather than booking through apps each time.
- Introduce yourself in person — reliability is more powerful than price.
- Leave flyers or cards with clear contact details and your service area.
- Offer a quick, one-day trial run to prove your reliability.
Local jobs often repeat weekly. One dependable relationship can lead to several consistent bookings — and word-of-mouth referrals spread fast in most towns.
2. Stay Active on Social Media
Many couriers underestimate how effective social media can be for regular work. Local companies often check Facebook or Instagram before hiring a driver. A few simple posts a week can show that you’re active, professional, and nearby.
- Post photos of your van (clean and branded if possible) with short captions about your area or type of delivery.
- Use location-based hashtags like #ManchesterCourier or #SameDayDeliveryUK.
- Share quick customer wins or testimonials to build credibility.
The goal isn’t to go viral — it’s to be visible when someone searches for a local courier.
3. Keep in Touch with Past Customers
Every customer you’ve delivered for is a potential repeat booking. A quick message every few weeks can remind them that you’re available and reliable.
- Save customer details in your phone or CRM with notes about each job.
- Send friendly “available this week” messages via WhatsApp or email.
- After a job, ask: “Would you like me to check in next week?” — it keeps the relationship open.
Regular communication shows professionalism and helps you build a dependable weekly route.
4. Offer Simple Retainer or Weekly Route Options
Once you have recurring clients, make it easier for them to book you again by setting up predictable delivery slots. For example:
- Monday & Thursday: Supplier runs
- Tuesday: Urgent drop-offs
- Friday: End-of-week collections
Having a repeat schedule helps customers plan — and helps you stabilise your income. You can charge a fixed weekly rate or discounted package for regular runs.
5. Use Simple Tools to Stay Organised
To manage regular work efficiently, use basic digital tools:
- Google Calendar: Track recurring jobs and set reminders.
- Spreadsheet or Notion board: Record clients, payment status, and routes.
- Accounting apps (QuickBooks, Wave): Keep on top of invoices and cashflow.
Being organised helps you appear more professional, and clients are more likely to trust drivers who invoice clearly and deliver on time.
6. Follow Up Consistently
Most couriers lose potential regulars simply because they stop following up. Keep a simple system:
- Every Friday, message your key clients to confirm next week’s work.
- Every month, reach out to 5–10 new local businesses.
- Track who you’ve contacted and when to avoid duplicate messages.
Persistence is what separates one-off drivers from full-time professionals. Even if you only land one new regular client a month, that’s steady growth.
Key Takeaway
Full-time courier work comes from consistent outreach and reliable service, not one-off luck. Build strong relationships with local companies, stay visible online, and maintain regular contact. With a few loyal clients, your calendar will fill up faster than you think — and your earnings will become predictable and scalable.
