Working as a motorcycle courier
Motorbike couriers collect and deliver small items, often within a town or city but sometimes on much longer trips. They need to know how to make their journeys as efficiently and safely as possible.
If you want to become a courier you'll need to be:
- a skilled motorbike rider
- fit and healthy
- trustworthy and discreet
- methodical and organised
- self-motivated and able to use your initiative
- prepared to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
You'll also need excellent customer service skills and the ability to ride safely under pressure. You can learn more about dealing with stress and time pressure by reading The Official DVSA Guide to Better Driving.
The Official DVSA Guide to Better Driving
Pay and conditions
Couriers usually work 40–48 hours a week, although hours might vary. Earnings usually range from £12,000 to £22,000 a year in large cities.
If you work as a self-employed courier, you’ll need to provide your own:
- motorcycle (at least 200 cc)
- fuel, courier insurance, vehicle tax and MOT (if appropriate)
- safety clothing and a helmet.
If you’re employed by a courier company, they may provide you with equipment such as a fluorescent jacket, a bag and a top box. Some companies rent motorbikes to couriers, have 'hire to buy' schemes or provide motorbikes as part of a bonus scheme.
To get started as a motorbike courier, you’ll need to be at least 17 years old and have a motorbike licence. Employers may prefer to hire riders who are over 21 years because of the insurance costs.
You will need to have completed at least your compulsory basic training to ride a moped or motorcycle. Taking the Ridefree course and the book Learning to Ride will help you.