How to find reliable courier subcontractors

When your work starts to pile up and you can’t cover it all yourself, that’s usually a good sign. It means your courier business is growing.

But growth brings its own challenges, especially when it comes to covering extra jobs without dropping the ball.

Hiring staff can feel like a big step, especially when you’re just starting out.

That’s where working with courier subcontractors comes in. It’s a flexible way to expand your capacity and keep your clients happy, without committing to permanent hires.

Here’s how to find the right subcontractors to help you take on more work safely and professionally.

When is the right time to bring in subcontractors?

There’s no fixed rule for when to start working with courier subcontractors, but there are plenty of signs it’s time to think about it.

• You’re regularly turning down jobs because you can’t cover them
• You’re doing too much yourself and struggling to keep up
• Your clients want broader coverage or quicker turnarounds
• You need help covering loads outside your normal area
• A client asks for a type of work you don’t currently offer, like a same-day courier load or something requiring a waste carrier licence
• You’re double-booked and risk letting someone down
• A new client needs urgent help and you want to win their business

For example, let’s say a client asks you to collect a load from Glasgow, but you’re based in Kent. That’s not a job you can do without cutting into your whole week. Or maybe you’ve been asked to deliver something under ADR regulations, and you’re not certified to handle it. Rather than walk away from the opportunity, you could subcontract it to someone who is.

Even one missed delivery can damage a relationship. Working with trusted courier subcontractors means you’ve always got backup. Whether it’s a one-off or regular support, having the right contacts can help you say yes more often—without overstretching.

And if you’re looking to grow towards high-value courier jobs, building a trusted network of support early on gives you a stronger foundation.

Common ways couriers find subcontractors

There’s no shortage of ways to find people willing to take on courier work.

But not all of them offer the same level of reliability, or peace of mind.

Facebook groups and online forums

Some couriers use Facebook groups to find available drivers.

It’s quick, but there’s a reason it’s not widely recommended.

• No vetting or formal checks
• No reviews or verified history
• High risk of no-shows or late deliveries

You might find someone good, but it’s a gamble. If something goes wrong, you’re the one your client calls, not the person you found online last night.

Asking around your local network

If you’ve been working in couriering for a while, you might know a few people you can call on.

That can work well for odd jobs, but it’s not always practical.

• Your usual courier subcontractors may not be available when you need them
• You might not have a big enough network to rely on
• It’s hard to scale as your workload grows

For new owner-drivers, building a network takes time. And when you need help right away, waiting isn’t an option.

Why using CX is the smarter way to find courier subcontractors

If you’re looking for a reliable way to expand capacity without adding more vehicles or taking on permanent staff, Courier Exchange (CX) is built for exactly that.

Find vetted subcontractors in minutes

Every courier on CX is verified by Trustd, so you’re not guessing who you’re hiring. That means:

• Proof of identity and compliance is already checked
• You can see public feedback from other load posters
• Quotes come in within minutes of posting a load

This saves time and gives you confidence in who you’re working with. You’re not wasting hours chasing drivers who might not show up.

Easier payments and tracking with CX tools

Once a subcontractor accepts a job, the built-in tools help you keep everything on track.

• SmartPay handles payments, so you’re not stuck chasing invoices
• Live courier vehicle tracking means you can see progress in real time
• Digital records keep everything organised for later

This makes managing extra work smoother, especially when juggling multiple jobs or clients. It also gives your customers added confidence, because they know what’s happening with their load at any point.

What to look for in a good subcontractor

Not all courier subcontractors are the same. Here are a few things to check before offering someone work:

• Good communication – quick replies and clear updates
• Positive feedback from recent jobs
• Insurance and licences in place
• Willingness to use live tracking and CX systems
• Punctuality and professional attitude

It’s easy to overlook the details when you’re in a rush. But the right subcontractor will make your life easier, not harder.

Start growing your courier business the right way

Whether you’re an owner-driver or you’re running a small fleet, working with courier subcontractors gives you flexibility. You can grow your business at your own pace, without committing to permanent hires or buying more courier vehicles straight away.

Using CX means you’re not left searching forums or relying on word of mouth. Instead, you’ve got access to a professional network built for people who want to deliver high standards and build long-term working relationships.

And if you’re working towards bigger goals – like managing a courier fleet or winning more high-value courier jobs – subcontracting is a practical stepping stone. You can take on more work, test new areas, and build your reputation, one job at a time.

Working this way isn’t just about taking on more loads. It’s about building a courier business that’s reliable, adaptable and ready to grow.

Frequently Asked Questions