Choosing a career, whether you’re leaving school or simply fancy a change of direction, can be a minefield, but you could do a lot worse than entering a courier career, especially in today’s economic climate. Perhaps you already work in the business and are familiar with the irregular hours and constant ‘on the road’ lifestyle. If this is the case then you will be pleased to know that the industry you’ve chosen is flourishing and the future is particularly bright.
Demand is continuing to increase year on year, with the number of parcels travelling across our country predicted to grow by around 40% by the end of 2019. Thanks to the positive long-term growth estimations and the potential for strong return, now is definitely a good time to consider a courier career – whether as a driver, a manager or as an investor in an existing company.
One of the main reasons that this business has grown so successfully is that fact that it benefits hugely from the impact of e-commerce. But how are the two linked?
The E-commerce Effect
There is no doubt that over the past couple of decades the amount of post, in terms of letters, has decreased dramatically and the transport of parcels and packages has done the opposite. This is due primarily to two factors: an increase in online purchasing and the growth in the global market (particularly in India, China and Europe). Consequently, the courier industry is thriving and this is excellent news for drivers already in the business and anyone considering getting a courier career off the ground.
Online Spending
In today’s fast paced world we place a huge emphasis on convenience – people don’t want to wait and instead are using quick fix online shopping to satisfy their needs. From weekly grocery shopping to gifts, and from home appliances to clothes, nowadays everything can be ordered on the Internet. As the need for more and more deliveries rises, so does the need for more and more delivery drivers and compliant companies in the industry.
Consumer spending is at the crux of the rise in the growth of this industry and if consumer spending continues to increase as predicted, the industry is set to prosper. There really is no better time to be working in this industry, and that is a fact!
Opportunities in the Future
Embarking on a courier career is challenging but rewarding. Hours are long and sometimes unsociable, but methods of delivery and ways of working are constantly changing as the companies strive to keep up with the changing demand. New systems are tackling the increased need for next day deliveries, and businesses are experimenting with cutting overheads and turnaround times. Companies are developing fast and both the environment and the work itself are exciting and gratifying.
Insider’s tip: The express sector in the courier industry is going to see the most growth in the near future, so consider setting your sights there when it comes to getting your courier career off the ground.
Author Plate
Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world’s largest neutral trading hub for same day courier work in the in the express freight exchange industry. Connecting professionals across the UK and Europe through their website, Courier Exchange provides a valuable service, updating members with the latest information from the transport industry, including courier career options, road safety, fuel costs and other news. Over 5,400 member companies are networked together through the Exchange to fill empty capacity, get new clients and form long-lasting business relationships.