Introduction
Delivery jobs have become one of the fastest-growing and most accessible forms of employment in the UK. From groceries and parcels to restaurant meals and retail items, the demand for reliable delivery drivers continues to rise due to e-commerce expansion and lifestyle shifts. Whether you're a British resident seeking flexible work or a foreigner exploring employment opportunities, delivery jobs in the UK offer a viable path to stable income and, in some cases, long-term settlement.
This article provides everything you need to know about delivery jobs in the UK—from eligibility and application procedures to visa routes, salary expectations, and job search tips.
Why Delivery Jobs Are in High Demand
The rise of online shopping and gig economy platforms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, Just Eat, and Amazon Flex has fueled the UK’s demand for delivery drivers. In addition to large courier companies, supermarkets and local businesses increasingly rely on drivers to reach their customers.
Key reasons for high demand include:
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Growth in online food and retail delivery.
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Consumer preference for home services.
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Driver shortages due to Brexit and post-pandemic shifts.
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The job's flexibility attracts students, part-time workers, and newcomers.
Types of Delivery Jobs in the UK
There are multiple delivery job roles based on vehicle type, contract structure, and service focus:
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Food Delivery Driver: Often on bikes or scooters, working for platforms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat.
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Parcel Delivery Driver: Employed by companies such as Amazon, DPD, Hermes (Evri), and Royal Mail.
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Grocery Delivery Driver: Working with supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, and Ocado.
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Self-Employed Courier: Drivers who work independently using platforms like Amazon Flex.
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Logistics & Freight Delivery: Heavier items delivered using vans or trucks, often requiring special licenses.
Eligibility Criteria for Delivery Jobs in the UK
Whether you're applying as a local or foreign applicant, you’ll need to meet the following general requirements:
For UK Citizens and Residents
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Minimum age of 18 (or 21 for larger vehicles).
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Valid UK driving licence (category depends on vehicle type).
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Vehicle insurance and MOT certificate (if using own vehicle).
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Smartphone with GPS (especially for app-based deliveries).
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Proof of right to work (passport, visa, etc.).
For Foreign Workers
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Valid work visa (e.g., Skilled Worker Visa, Youth Mobility Scheme, or Graduate Visa).
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Recognised and valid international or UK driving licence.
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Some roles may require conversion to a UK licence after 12 months.
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Good command of English and understanding of local traffic laws.
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A clean criminal record and driving history (for formal employers).
⚠️ Note: App-based gigs like Deliveroo or Uber Eats often classify workers as self-employed, so they may not directly sponsor visas. However, some logistics companies do.
How to Get a Delivery Job in the UK: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Determine Vehicle Type
Decide whether you'll use a bike, motorbike, car, or van. This determines which platforms you can work with and what documents are needed.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
You’ll typically need:
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A valid driver’s licence (UK or convertible foreign licence).
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Right-to-work documents or visa.
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National Insurance Number.
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Vehicle insurance (for business use).
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Smartphone with internet access.
Step 3: Choose Your Employer or Platform
You can apply to:
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App-based platforms (Deliveroo, Uber Eats, Amazon Flex).
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Logistics companies (DPD, Yodel, Royal Mail).
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Supermarkets (Tesco, Ocado, etc.).
Step 4: Apply Online or In-Person
Create profiles on delivery platforms or upload your CV to employer websites. Many companies conduct brief interviews, background checks, and onboarding sessions.
Step 5: Start Delivering
After onboarding, you’ll receive delivery gear (app access, thermal bags, ID badge, etc.) and can begin earning.
Popular Job Search Websites For Delivery Jobs In The UK
Here are some top platforms to find delivery jobs in the UK:
Salary Expectations
The salary for delivery drivers in the UK varies widely based on employment type, location, and hours worked:
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App-Based Delivery: £8–£15 per hour (varies by order volume and time).
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Employed Full-Time Driver: £22,000–£32,000 annually.
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Amazon Flex/Self-Employed Couriers: £13–£18 per hour.
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Grocery or Van Drivers: £25,000–£35,000 per year (with bonuses).
London and major cities usually offer higher rates, especially during evenings and weekends.
Visa Sponsorship for Delivery Jobs
Delivery roles are generally classified as low-skilled, meaning they are not commonly eligible for Skilled Worker visas. However:
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Large logistics companies may occasionally sponsor van or HGV drivers under shortage occupation routes.
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Youth Mobility Visa or Graduate Visa holders can work without sponsorship for up to 2 years.
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Some migrants use delivery jobs as a temporary income source while studying or seeking long-term roles.
Always check the UK Home Office Shortage Occupation List for the latest visa-related roles.
Skills Required for Delivery Jobs
Though not typically demanding academically, delivery jobs require:
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Strong navigation and time management.
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Excellent communication and customer service.
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Physical fitness (for lifting parcels or cycling).
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Attention to road safety and traffic rules.
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Reliability and ability to work independently.
Advantages of Working as a Delivery Driver
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Flexible hours (choose when and where to work).
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Immediate income potential (some pay daily or weekly).
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No formal education needed.
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Entry-level friendly.
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Opportunities to move into logistics management over time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Working without proper insurance: Always ensure your vehicle is covered for commercial use.
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Using an unregistered or untaxed vehicle: Leads to fines and disqualification.
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Ignoring UK driving laws: Cameras and fines are strict.
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Assuming all companies sponsor visas: Confirm before applying.
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Poor customer service: Negative ratings on platforms can limit earnings.
Tips for Success as a Delivery Driver
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Use fuel-efficient routes and navigation apps.
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Keep your vehicle in good condition to avoid breakdowns.
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Be polite and punctual with customers.
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Track your mileage and expenses if self-employed (for tax purposes).
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Work during peak hours (lunch, dinner, weekends) for better pay.
Conclusion
Delivery jobs in the UK offer a flexible, accessible, and often lucrative option for both locals and foreigners—especially those looking for immediate income or gig-based work. While visa restrictions may limit foreign applicants to certain roles, various legal pathways allow newcomers to work in this sector, especially if they already hold a valid work visa.
With increasing demand for home deliveries across the country, delivery jobs remain a strong entry point into the UK job market—especially when approached professionally, legally, and with the right preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can foreigners get delivery jobs in the UK?
Yes, if they have a valid work visa. Most app-based platforms don't offer sponsorship, but logistics companies occasionally do.
2. Do I need a UK licence to deliver in the UK?
You can use a valid foreign licence for 12 months, but after that, you must exchange it for a UK licence (depending on your country of origin).
3. How much do delivery drivers earn per month in the UK?
Full-time drivers typically earn between £1,800 and £2,800 monthly, depending on vehicle type and hours worked.
4. Is being self-employed better than working as an employee?
Self-employment offers flexibility and higher pay potential, but employees receive benefits like holiday pay and job security.
5. What visa is best for doing delivery jobs in the UK?
The Youth Mobility Scheme and Graduate Route are ideal, as they allow temporary work. The Skilled Worker Visa is only viable for sponsored roles like HGV driving.
