What Does a Delivery Driver Do?
A delivery driver is responsible for transporting goods from a warehouse, store, or distribution center to the intended recipient. They load and unload deliveries, follow assigned routes using navigation tools, and ensure items arrive on time and in good condition. This role often includes using handheld devices to track deliveries and collect proof of receipt.
Delivery drivers are key to supply chain and customer service operations. In addition to safely operating company vehicles, they may interact directly with customers or business partners during drop-offs. Whether delivering small packages or large items, their reliability, punctuality, and professionalism directly impact customer satisfaction.
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Delivery Driver Core Responsibilities
- Safely operate a company vehicle to complete assigned delivery routes
- Load, transport, and unload goods following safety procedures
- Use GPS or routing software to navigate efficiently
- Collect signatures, scan packages, or obtain delivery confirmation
- Perform basic vehicle checks and report maintenance issues
- Maintain accurate delivery logs and documentation
- Interact with customers professionally and resolve minor delivery issues
- Comply with traffic laws, DOT regulations, and company policies
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Valid state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record
- Ability to safely lift and move packages (often 50+ lbs)
- Experience using navigation apps and mobile delivery software
- Basic understanding of vehicle safety and inspection routines
Soft skills
- Punctuality and reliability
- Strong communication and customer service
- Attention to detail in delivery documentation
- Independence and good judgment while on the road
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in commercial or last-mile delivery roles
- Familiarity with route optimization tools or dispatch platforms
- Forklift or warehouse equipment certification (if applicable)
National Average Salary
Delivery driver salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Delivery Driver is:
$42,790
Sample Job Description Templates for Delivery Drivers
Package Delivery Driver
Position Overview
A package delivery driver transports parcels to homes and businesses using preplanned routes and schedules. This fast-paced role involves handling a high volume of small-to-medium packages while ensuring timely and accurate deliveries.
Responsibilities
- Load, organize, and deliver packages along assigned routes
- Scan and track deliveries using mobile handheld devices
- Communicate with dispatch regarding route changes or issues
- Ensure packages are delivered securely and obtain proof of delivery
- Perform daily vehicle inspections and report any issues
Requirements
Hard skills
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
- Familiarity with GPS routing and package scanning tools
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs repeatedly
Soft skills
- Reliability and punctuality
- Efficient time management
- Courteous customer service
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience in parcel or last-mile delivery
- Comfort working under time constraints and in various weather conditions
Food Delivery Driver
Position Overview
A food delivery driver transports meals and beverages from restaurants or commercial kitchens to customers quickly and safely. This role prioritizes speed, order accuracy, and cleanliness to ensure a quality dining experience outside the restaurant.
Responsibilities
- Pick up food orders and verify contents for accuracy and packaging
- Follow traffic laws and use routing apps to ensure prompt deliveries
- Handle delivery handoffs with professionalism and care
- Maintain food safety and temperature during transport
- Communicate delays or issues to customers and dispatch
Requirements
Hard skills
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (bike, scooter, or car)
- Familiarity with delivery apps and customer messaging
- Basic knowledge of food handling and hygiene
Soft skills
- Friendly, courteous service
- Strong sense of urgency
- Ability to multitask and stay organized
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with food delivery platforms (e.g., DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub)
- Food handler certification (where required by local law)
Furniture Delivery Driver
Position Overview
A furniture delivery driver transports large, often delicate items to customer homes or commercial sites. This role includes heavy lifting, assembly, and white-glove service that reflects company professionalism at the point of delivery.
Responsibilities
- Load, secure, and transport furniture without damage
- Unload, position, and assemble furniture at the delivery site
- Protect customer property and maintain a clean work environment
- Review delivery orders and obtain signatures or photos for confirmation
- Inspect items before and after delivery for quality assurance
Requirements
Hard skills
- Ability to lift 75–100 lbs safely and operate moving equipment
- Experience with furniture handling and minor assembly
- Valid driver’s license; box truck experience often preferred
Soft skills
- Professional appearance and communication
- Problem-solving at delivery sites
- Teamwork and situational awareness
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in white-glove or residential furniture delivery
- Basic mechanical aptitude or assembly experience
Medical Delivery Driver
Position Overview
A medical delivery driver ensures timely and secure transport of pharmaceuticals, lab specimens, medical records, or supplies. Precision, discretion, and compliance with healthcare regulations are critical to success in this role.
Responsibilities
- Transport temperature-sensitive or regulated medical items
- Maintain chain-of-custody documentation and logs
- Follow HIPAA guidelines and infection control procedures
- Load and secure deliveries to prevent contamination or breakage
- Communicate with medical staff and dispatch regarding urgent deliveries
Requirements
Hard skills
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
- Familiarity with specimen handling and healthcare regulations
- Ability to use tracking software and maintain documentation
Soft skills
- High attention to detail
- Discretion and professional communication
- Strong time sensitivity and responsibility
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
Certifications
- None required; HIPAA training preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in medical, pharmaceutical, or courier delivery
- Familiarity with cold-chain or biohazard transport protocols