Overview of the Multidrop Driver Role
It is the job of a Multidrop Driver to deliver multiple parcels and packages to customers on a specific delivery route within a time frame. A Multidrop Driver will need to load their vehicle with the packages so that they are easily accessible for delivery and must keep their vehicle clean to prevent any damage occurring to the parcels.
It is important to have good problem-solving skills and an understanding of delivery routes, as road issues such as traffic can occur, and you may have to find alternative routes to your destination.
A Multidrop Driver will need to maintain their vehicle to avoid road accidents and breakdowns during their shift, as these issues can cause a chain reaction for other drivers who might need to complete your deliveries, and customers who might receive their parcels late.
Dress Code
A Multidrop Driver will typically wear a uniform based on the company they work for; this will include polo shirts and comfortable and durable pants or jeans. Sometimes hi-vis vests will be required for safety crossing roads.
Multidrop Driver Responsibilities
A Multidrop Driver is responsible for loading packages and parcels into a vehicle and delivering them on a pre-determined route to customers using their organisational skills and understanding of delivery routes.
Multidrop Driver Tips
Develop excellent driving skills. You will need to have good driver awareness to avoid dangers on the road and always be mindful of speed limits and traffic laws.
Gain an understanding of navigational tools such as GPS to optimise your delivery routes and keep productivity high.
Skills of a Multidrop Driver
A Multidrop Driver must have a Full UK Driving Licence and Driver CPC to perform this role. They also need practical skills such as organisational skills for quickly finding parcels, and knowledge of delivery routes to get to customers quickly.
Full UK Driving Licence & Driver CPC
To become a Multidrop Driver you must have a Full UK Driving Licence, and you must be at least 18 years old. It is also essential to have a Driver CPC also known as a Certificate of Professional Competence.
To obtain a Driver CPC you must complete the National Driver CPC training course which is 35 hours of periodic training and must be done every 5 years to keep your Certificate. Some of this training can be done as e-learning as well as in person.
Organisational Skills
A Multidrop Driver must be able to plan and prioritize their delivery routes and manage their time efficiently. It is important to properly load and arrange packages in your vehicle based on the route you will take to make sure deliveries are timely and accurate.
Be prepared for unexpected changes, such as traffic or other route blockers that could hinder your delivery times. Be capable of finding alternative routes to continue making your deliveries. Maximise efficiency by strategically organizing your workload during your shift.
Knowledge of Delivery Routes
Before making any deliveries a Multidrop Driver must consider their route. Use mapping data to plan your route so that everything can be delivered in the most time efficient manner.
Consider how long a delivery might take depending on the location of the parcel and its size and whether it will affect the time it takes to make your next delivery. Sometimes, you might need to find alternative routes, and it might not be safe to plan these changes in any route mapping software. Use your knowledge of the area in these situations to find alternatives or contact the logistics department when it is safe to do so.
Duties of a Multidrop Driver
A Multidrop Driver is expected to make timely and accurate deliveries during their shift. They are also responsible for maintaining their vehicle and keeping them clean.
Ensuring Timely & Accurate Deliveries
It is important to utilise your time management, problem solving and organisational skills to make timely deliveries. Properly map out the delivery route and organise the packages in a way that they are easily accessible when making a delivery. Taking these steps is important for maximising accuracy and productivity.
Always double check the name and address on a parcel before making a delivery, as taking a package to the wrong house will cause issues for the customer and the company.
Maintaining Vehicle Safety & Cleanliness
It is important to maintain your vehicle by performing regular checks of tire pressure and tread and making sure washer and oil levels are at a safe level to prevent vehicle breakdowns during a delivery shift. Issues like this can put pressure on other drivers who might need to finish the deliveries for you.
Keeping the vehicle clean is essential to avoid any stains or damages to the parcels, as customers will be unhappy with faulty items. Clean your vehicle regularly and keep liquids away from all packages.
Multidrop Driver Career Progression and Advancement
With enough experience and by meeting productivity targets, it is possible for a Multidrop Driver to progress into team leader or route supervisor roles. It is also possible to move into logistics and fleet management.
Team Leader & Route Supervisor Roles
To become a Team Leader or Route Supervisor it is important to first gain experience as a Multidrop Driver and improve your leadership, communication and time management skills. Where possible, train new drivers and learn to delegate deliveries to other drivers who might understand certain routes better, improving overall productivity.
Have a good understanding of delivery routes and how to avoid delays when they occur. Use this knowledge to calmly advise drivers when they are stuck and need assistance.
Logistics & Fleet Management Opportunities
To move into logistics or fleet management, you will need to acquire certain certifications in relevant fields. Your knowledge as a Multidrop Driver will help you understand how deliveries are done in a team. Increase your knowledge of delivery vehicles and learn about vehicle maintenance for dealing with a delivery fleet.
You will also need to learn how to track deliveries and find ways to optimise delivery times if there is room for improvement.
FAQs on Becoming a Multidrop Driver
What Are the Typical Working Hours for a Multidrop Driver?
A Multidrop Driver can expect to work from early morning, working on a set schedule and delivering many packages per day. Specific hours may vary from company to company, but a typical shift would be 8am to 5pm.
What Licence Do I Need to Be a Multidrop Driver?
A Multidrop Driver must have a Full UK Drivers Licence and a Certificate of Professional Competence. For driving larger vehicles, you might also need a Category C licence.
How Much Does a Multidrop Driver Earn?
A Multidrop Driver in the UK can expect to earn around £24,000 per year, though pay may vary depending on location, experience and company.
What Does a Multidrop Driver Do?
A multidrop driver makes multiple deliveries to different locations within a single pre-determined route. This involves dropping off small parcels and packages to customers on a pre-planned schedule.
