Delivery Drivers in the UK - What Are The main Risks?
If you are looking to get into the world of delivering packages in the UK, you may want to keep reading as this sector can be dangerous and also, sometimes, pretty boring. As a driver for a parcel delivery company in the UK, you could be spending your days driving around in a small van or lorry, waiting for a job to turn up. You could be loading and unloading pallets of goods which can make you really aware of how heavy everything is. Driving for a parcel delivery company offers great experience and variety as there are so many different types of courier service out there. However, it is also one of the riskiest jobs available, which is why independent delivery insurance, which you can get quotes for here, is so vital, as you never know who is operating outside the law, where your goods might be going, or whether or not they are legitimate businesses that follow the rules. To learn more about what challenges you could face as a new driver for a parcel delivery company in the UK, check out our blog post below.
What are the main risks in the UK Parcel Delivery Industry?
As a driver for a parcel delivery company in the UK, you could be exposed to a wide range of risks. These include but are not limited to: Long-Distance Driving - This is by far the most challenging type of driving for a new driver as it requires you to be very flexible with your driving style and also be able to deal with long hours behind the wheel. Freelance Contracting can also involves working for a number of different companies which can lead to some pretty poor working conditions overall.
As a new driver for a parcel delivery company in the UK, you could also face some pretty sketchy situations on the road. You might come across drivers who are not aware of the rules of the road or who are not willing to take the necessary precautions. Breakdowns can also be a severe problem; It is always a good idea to keep a repair manual in your car or van as you will most likely need it when driving for a parcel delivery company in the UK.
Long-Distance Driving - The risk of travel sickness
Long-distance driving is by far the most challenging type of driving for a new driver. This is due to the fact that you are usually driving between multiple places and also carrying a lot of extra weight. As a new driver for a parcel delivery company in the UK, you could easily develop travel sickness if you are not careful.
Transporting yourself and your goods over long distances can be nervewracking. You may get motion sickness which can make you feel really nauseous and result in you having to take frequent breaks to get it fixed.
Travel Sickness may occur for a number of reasons. For example, if you are used to sitting still for a long time, you will start to feel uncomfortable when you are not allowed to drive. You may also develop a stomach bug or a cold while traveling which will make you feel even more unwell.
If you experience the classic symptoms of travel sickness, or have other physical discomfort such as a sore back and feet, dry eyes or a lack of concentration you should definitely take some time for yourself and get your rest. You should always make sure to keep an eye out for signs that you are becoming too tired to drive. and you should not drive if you feel light-headed or nauseous.
Dangerous driving conditions - What to expect
As a new driver for a parcel delivery company in the UK, you will experience some pretty wild driving conditions. Inclement weather could make visibility very poor and also make you more likely to swerve and lose control of the car or van. Driving in weather that is too cold for you could leave you with frostbite while driving in hot weather could lead to heatstroke. In addition, if your vehicle breaks down or gets stuck, driving in snowy or icy conditions could be very challenging.
Overwork
One of the biggest risks as a new driver is being overworked. These types of jobs are not safe for anyone, let alone a new driver. Moreover, you will be expected to carry a lot of heavy objects. If you have a hard time lifting or carrying heavy items, you may develop back problems and be unable to drive for a long time.
Driving Abroad
In addition to the driving conditions, the traffic rules and regulations in the UK can be very different from the rest of the world. Therefore, when you are abroad, you are expected to adapt to the local rules. This means that if you are not familiar with the speed limit or road rules, you will have to pay the price.
Freelance Contracting - The riskiest option for new drivers
As a new driver for a parcel delivery company in the UK, you may be tempted to freelance. This could be a great option if you have experience as a package delivery driver, but be aware that the competition for jobs is very high and that there is a high risk of being fired if you don’t deliver. You could even end up working for no-show jobs or jobs that are posted on the internet. You should be very wary of this as it could end up being a very short-term solution and may have you putting your own safety at risk.
To Sum Up:
It can be really scary driving around all by yourself. You need to be prepared for anything, both for the company and for the goods that you are transporting. Make sure your safety is always top of mind. It can be really helpful to read through the work rules before starting a job to familiarize yourself with what is expected of you. Make sure you have adequate insurance and wear a seat belt at all times when you are on company property. Be kind to the office staff and the other drivers who are you are likely to work with. Lastly, and most importantly, have fun!