Delivery Driver Jobs With No Experience: What to Know Before Applying

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the number of delivery drivers will increase by 8% between 2024 and 2034, faster than the average job growth. This presents a great opportunity for anyone interested in starting a long and prosperous career. As a bonus, these jobs have entry-level positions that don’t require experience.

Those looking for gig work can find easy food delivery jobs with companies like DoorDash and Uber Eats, which allow you to deliver by bicycle instead of a vehicle. While these jobs can be great for those under 21, there are much better-paying delivery driver options that can be the start of a lifelong career.

A more promising path in the delivery industry is to apply for a job through a Delivery Service Partner (DSP). Working for a DSP and delivering packages to customers of companies like Amazon can be an excellent way to kick-start a career in logistics. To apply, you don’t need previous experience in the delivery industry, but you’ll need to meet basic requirements. Having various professional skills will also give you an edge over other candidates.

The requirements for different types of delivery jobs vary. If you want to become a DSP delivery driver, there are two main requirements you’ll need to meet:

• Driver’s license: Because you’ll be operating a vehicle on the road, you’ll need a license for delivery. Drivers don’t need any special training or a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Because these are non-CDL driving jobs, you just need the standard Class D license.

• Age: Insurance premiums for drivers drop as you get older. While some gig work will allow you to work starting at age 18, most DSP companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old.

Requirements will differ by DSP companies and the region where you’re applying. To learn the exact requirements, you should check local job listings or contact DSP companies directly.

Not all delivery driver jobs require experience. However, there are certain skill sets that companies look for in an employee that can give you a leg up on getting the job. Here are some professional skills that can set you apart from other candidates:

• Time management: Drivers who can accurately estimate routes and adjust schedules throughout the day are more likely to make on-time deliveries. Good time management means knowing how to adapt to unexpected problems and how to prioritize tasks for the best results.

• Problem-solving: Even drivers who run similar routes each shift must deal with different challenges. These challenges can range from harsh weather conditions to construction zones that cause congestion to difficult-to-find addresses. Being able to quickly work out how to approach and solve new issues will keep you on schedule.

• Physical endurance: While many may not see delivery driving as a physical job, there are many tasks that require stamina. Loading, lifting, carrying, and unloading packages require endurance and help drivers perform the job more effectively.

• Communication: Strong communication skills are important for positive customer interactions and coordinating with coworkers and supervisors. Keep in mind that communication is not only about expressing your thoughts clearly. You also must practice active listening when it comes to instructions and feedback to make sure you're meeting all requirements and keeping customers happy.

• Safe driving: Because a large portion of the job takes place on the road, alert, detail-oriented drivers perform better. Safe driving is important not only for protecting yourself, others, and the packages, but also for helping with on-time deliveries.

DSP companies offer training to make sure their drivers are ready to effectively deliver packages. However, developing these specific professional skills often comes with on-the-job experience and a positive mindset. Remaining open to feedback and alternative approaches to your work will also put you in a better position to develop and become a better delivery driver.

The physical demands of delivery jobs are often overlooked. Candidates should consider the real strain of their tasks before applying and find the best ways to manage it. First off, prospective drivers should expect to walk thousands of steps each day. While many quick deliveries require drivers to stop at a curb and walk packages up a driveway to the front door, other situations require more effort. Drivers may need to walk long paths across campuses or office complexes to complete deliveries.

Packages vary in weight as well and can weigh up to 50 lbs. Drivers must load these packages into their trucks and then lift and carry them again when out on the route. While this combination of activity can be tiring for new drivers, it’s often easy to adjust to over a short period. Wearing appropriate gear, such as gloves with grip and comfortable footwear, can also make a huge difference.

While the physical demands of the work can take some getting used to, a career in delivery can pay off big. First, you don’t need a degree or experience to apply and become a driver. Through consistent hard work and reliability, drivers can move up and build solid careers in logistics and management.

Even if you don’t have experience as a delivery driver, you can take the next step and apply to a DSP. Companies all over the U.S. are looking to expand their teams with motivated talent interested in working their way up the ranks. To get started, browse delivery driver jobs online and see what’s available in your area.