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In any business, problems are inevitable - and being a courier driver is no exception. However, being self-employed means that you can also be in charge of the solutions. There are a number of issues that you’re sure to come across, but most of them are easily resolved. Here are some common problems you may face as a courier driver, along with some very simple solutions. Lost on the Job You may think you know your area, but the first thing you’ll learn as a courier driver is that there are always surprises around the corner. You’ll have deliveries and pick-ups from an extensive list of locations around your region, and you may soon find yourself pulled up on the side of the road scrolling through maps on your phone. This takes up valuable time and is costing you money! If you invest in a reliable GPS unit, it may seem pricey at the start but will realistically be one of the best investments for your business. Marketing on a Shoestring While advertising is a great way to get your name out there, it can be expensive. But don’t worry; if you don’t have the funds to splash your brand all over the papers there are plenty of free or cheap alternative marketing tools that you can take advantage of. • Set up a website or blog - There are many free platforms now that allow you to set up your own website at no cost. Use this online space to talk about your business, advertise services and set your prices. • Post an advert online - Craigslist or Backpage.com are good free options. • Network, network, network! - Word of mouth is one of the most powerful marketing tools at your disposal, so get out there and talk yourself up! Man with No Van Investing in a reliable vehicle is your number one priority as a courier driver. It’s key for your business and you’ll be starting on the back foot if you use an inferior vehicle and find yourself breaking down every five minutes. Failing to Plan Anyone who’s self-employed knows the value of organization. In the courier industry, where time is paramount, it’s absolutely vital. Keep a clear but detailed planner for each day of all your scheduled deliveries, and one for the week or month ahead so that you can plan accordingly. It might sound tedious, but you’ll thank yourself in the long run. Easy Does It From time to time you’ll get a request to transport fragile items and you need to be prepared for them. Your job is to get an object from A to B safely, so make sure you carry the necessary items - such as moving blankets and securing ropes. While of course you can’t predict every eventuality, you can definitely plan for the common ones. So set yourself up for success by keeping these points in mind and, as a courier driver, you’ll be able to offer reliable service with confidence. Author Plate Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for same day courier driver jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 5,400 member companies are networked together through the Exchange to fill empty capacity, get new clients and form long-lasting business relationships.
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