Motorcycle Courier

Also known as:

Courier, Motorcycle
Delivery Person, Motorcycle
Messenger, Motorcycle
Despatch Rider

Introduction

Motorcycle couriers transport urgent, valuable or confidential documents and packages from one location to another and ensure their safe delivery. Some employers expect couriers to provide and maintain their own motorcycles.

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Work Activities

A motorcycle courier takes letters, packages, documents, tapes, films, and other items from one place to another, usually within a specified time.

Couriers receive the details of a delivery job from their controller by two-way radio or mobile phone. They then ride to the customer's premises to collect the items which may be fragile, confidential or valuable. Often, time is critical, so they need to know the area they work in well so they can plan the quickest route.

The courier is responsible for the speedy and safe delivery of the items to the destination specified. All deliveries must be signed for. After delivery, the courier phones or radios in to find out details of the next job. Sometimes they also have to wait for a package to take away with them.

Motorcycle couriers work outdoors in all weather conditions. They wear protective clothing, and must be aware of road safety issues.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

You should be a skilled driver who enjoys motor cycling and can cope with all kinds of road and weather conditions. You need to be self-reliant and able to work on your own without direct supervision.

You must be trustworthy and conscientious, have a keen sense of responsibility and be willing to carry out instructions. You also need to show initiative and be able to work under pressure.

You should have an excellent knowledge of the area in which you work, and be able to read maps, plan your route and follow directions. You must be efficient, reliable and punctual.

You should also be able to deal with any unexpected situations, and sort out any problems such as poor directions or breakdowns. It is useful to have some knowledge of vehicle maintenance.

A calm nature and plenty of common sense are valuable qualities.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Motorcycle couriers earn in the range of £290 - £350 a week, rising to around £390 - £450 a week. In London, this can rise to around £550 a week.

Part-time work is possible. Overtime may be available.

A good despatch agency will have plenty of work, so earnings can depend entirely on how quickly and how well riders can find their way around. Couriers travel locally, nationally and even internationally.

Working hours may be irregular and include early starts, late finishes, public holidays and weekend work.

The main employers are private despatch companies and government bodies. Most opportunities are in large cities and particularly in the London area. Users of courier services include publishers, advertising agencies, law firms, and music and media companies.

Some couriers are self-employed, but work through an agency. Starting out as a self-employed motorcycle courier is expensive - requiring a reliable motorcycle of 250cc or above, with costs which include fuel, insurance, protective clothing and maintenance.

Experienced couriers can also move into administration (as a controller) and sometimes ownership of their own courier service.

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Adult Opportunities

Age limits apply to this occupation.

A full motorcycle licence is required by despatch companies so you must be 17 at least.

• 5% of people in occupations such as motorcycle couriers are self-employed.
• 27% work part-time.
• 4% have flexible hours.
• 4% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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