{"id":18346,"date":"2025-04-17T12:26:50","date_gmt":"2025-04-17T12:26:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk\/?p=18346"},"modified":"2025-04-17T12:26:50","modified_gmt":"2025-04-17T12:26:50","slug":"becoming-a-delivery-driver-need-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk\/index.php\/becoming-a-delivery-driver-need-to-know\/","title":{"rendered":"Thinking of becoming a delivery driver? Here’s what you need to know"},"content":{"rendered":"

Sometimes it\u2019s not until you embark on a career that you realise how many different types of role there are available to you! Becoming a delivery driver is no different. From local courier jobs to international haulage, delivery is broad and varied. Undertaking a career in this field offers flexibility, stability, and the chance to explore new horizons. Plus, starting salaries are high, with plenty of opportunities to grow and develop.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

So, where do you start, and how do you decide which part of delivery you want to pursue? From licence categories to training to key benefits, we\u2019ll look at everything you need to know about becoming a delivery driver.<\/span><\/p>\n

Delivery driver benefits<\/h2>\n

There are several key benefits to a career in delivery driving<\/a>. The great thing is that this is a path that is open to most people – to start learning you just need to be over 18 and hold a valid UK driving licence. Here\u2019s why you might be thinking of taking that first step:<\/span><\/p>\n

High starting salaries<\/h4>\n

Professional driving is increasingly becoming a competitive and well-paid career choice. Depending on your licence type and the role, starting salaries can range from \u00a335,000 for Category C drivers to \u00a350,000 or more for those with Category C+E licences and specialist certifications.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Career development opportunities<\/h4>\n

Once you\u2019ve entered the industry, there are many opportunities to upskill and widen your scope of work. This is particularly so if you aim to move into long haul roles or specialised sectors such as waste management or refrigerated transport.<\/span><\/p>\n

Job security<\/h4>\n

With recent surges in demand due to e-commerce growth and Brexit related logistical challenges, there has never been a better time to consider a driving career. The skills of professional drivers are essential to keeping supply chains operational, meaning your expertise will always be in demand.<\/span><\/p>\n

Flexible working options<\/h4>\n

One of the biggest appeals of becoming a delivery driver is flexibility. Whether you prefer shorter, local routes or international trips, there\u2019s likely a role that fits your lifestyle. You can look for freelance self-employment, work in-house for a company, or join a logistics service.<\/span><\/p>\n

Varied working environment<\/h4>\n

Forget being stuck behind a desk all day! Delivery drivers have the freedom to explore different locations and experience a constantly changing environment.<\/span><\/p>\n

Understanding driver demand<\/h2>\n

The logistics and haulage industry has seen a sharp increase in demand for drivers in recent years. E-commerce growth has transformed customer expectations, with faster delivery times now the norm. Additionally, Brexit has complicated border regulations, creating a need for more highly skilled drivers to manage complex international routes.<\/span><\/p>\n

A report this year from the Road Haulage Association (RHA) has identified that 40,000 new drivers would be needed every year for the next 5 years to balance shortages and the proportion of the workforce set to retire over that time. Whether delivering consumer goods or critical supplies, drivers are an essential part of today\u2019s economy, making it an <\/span>exciting time to join the profession<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Understanding which licence<\/h2>\n

Depending on the role and the vehicle you\u2019ll be driving, you\u2019ll need to obtain a specific category licence. You\u2019ll need to have the <\/span>correct licence type on your provisional licence<\/span><\/a> too, so this is a decision that must be made early on! At Surrey & Hampshire Driver Training, our advisors can help you from the very early stages so that you make the right long term decisions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Category C Licence<\/h4>\n

This licence enables you to drive rigid vehicles weighing over 3,500kg with trailers up to 750kg. Common roles for Category C drivers include:<\/span><\/p>\n