The COVID-19 crisis has disrupted various lives, particularly in the world of employment. At the onset of the pandemic, many employees got laid off from work. Even businesses that had gone into a temporary hiatus closed for good.
But in the light of the COVID-19, new business opportunities have arisen. In fact, the US Chambers of Commerce identified industries that have been flourishing during the pandemic. The delivery service is on top of this list. Hence, there has been a high demand for delivery drivers amid the crisis.
In this article, we’ll share with you what it takes to become a delivery driver during this pandemic. Keep on reading to learn more.
The Demand for Delivery Drivers in the Pandemic
The delivery service is considered an essential service during this pandemic. As such, shelter-in-place orders and restricted movements have led to the high demand for delivery drivers.
In fact, some delivery services have been facing a shortage of drivers as the pandemic ensues. Why? Many individuals and families have relied on delivery drivers to get their food supplies, groceries, medications, and items delivered right at their doorsteps.
Today, many countries have lifted lockdowns, and the pandemic restrictions have become lighter and lighter. Still, many individuals and families have seen the value of delivery services. They will continue to rely on this service due to their handful of benefits, such as ease and convenience.
What a Delivery Driver Does
A delivery driver is a transportation professional who delivers goods or items upon the customers’ requests. These products vary, from food orders to grocery supplies to item packages. These driving professionals use vehicles, whether owned or provided by the company. They can travel either short or long distances. Their ultimate goal is to ensure the timely and safe delivery of goods or items and maintain the quality of these products.
What the Delivery Driving Job Entails
The primary function of a delivery driver is to send goods or items to the destination requested by the customers or clients. However, the specific job description varies from one job title to another. Take note of the following:
- For eCommerce business: You get the packaged items from the company, safely load them in your vehicle, and transport them to the customers or clients.
- For food delivery service: You usually receive food delivery requests from clients via a food service app, order the meals at restaurants, and deliver them to the customers’ houses.
- For grocery delivery service: You receive a list of products from your customers, purchase them from grocery stores, and deliver the groceries right at the customers’ doorsteps.
- For exclusive delivery deal: You may have a contract with a particular business. You have the task of delivering goods, items, or materials to different retail stores in your locality.
How to Become a Delivery Driver
To become a delivery driver, you must, of course, know how to drive. On top of the driving requirements is the driver’s license. The delivery service provider wants to ensure you have the driving knowledge, skills, and expertise.
As a delivery service driver, you’ll be on the road most of the time. As always, road safety is and will always be a top priority. For this reason, you must have a clean driving record to become a delivery service driver.
In some cases, you must undergo specialized training and certification such as a driver’s online drug and alcohol test required by the delivery service provider. Hence, make sure to check the requirements before applying for this job.
But for the most part, here’s a summary of the basic requirements of becoming a delivery driver:
- You must have a valid driver’s license.
- You must be 18 years old and above (in most cases).
- You must have at least a high school diploma.
- You must have no driving violations at all.
- You must be excellent at driving and even parking.
- You must ensure physical fitness and strength.
- You must have excellent communication and organizational skills.
- You must have good interpersonal relationships and customer service skills.
The job as a delivery driver has become in demand during this COVID-19 crisis. Whether you were laid off from work or are looking for an income source in the pandemic, take the opportunity to become a delivery driver.
That said, be sure to consider the valuable information discussed above to see what the requirements and qualifications are. Ultimately, being a delivery driver is a rewarding job. Not only does it help you get by during the pandemic, but it also helps meet the needs of other people.