Breaking into the courier industry can be tough, especially if you’re just starting out. Knowing how to manage jobs, communicate with shippers, and handle payments professionally can set you apart. Lee Gueller, from Red Rocket Couriers, has built a reputation in the courier world, and he’s shared some practical tips to help you succeed.
Whether you’re a member of the Courier Exchange or working independently, these tips can help you handle your courier jobs with confidence and professionalism.
Tips for new courier drivers
1. Start with an eQuote, but don’t stop there
Lee’s first piece of advice is to use eQuotes when bidding on loads whenever possible. Shippers are busy, and eQuotes let them quickly review your availability and pricing without stopping what they’re doing.
But sending an eQuote is just the first step. Following up with a quick phone call can make all the difference. “It builds a bit of rapport with the company and puts a voice to the screen,” Lee says. Even if the shipper is busy, they’ll appreciate your effort to connect personally.
2. Learn and respect shipper preferences
Every company works differently, and understanding their preferences is key to building lasting relationships. For example, some shippers prefer emailed invoices, while others might request hard copies.
Lee Gueller recommends doing exactly what each company asks when it comes to invoices, PODs, and communication. “The better you adapt to their preferences, the more likely they are to work with you again,” he says.
3. Stay professional with payments
Payment terms can vary, but patience and professionalism will help you manage them effectively. Some shippers pay promptly, while others might run on specific schedules, like the first Tuesday of the month.
Lee advises waiting a couple of days after the due date before chasing a payment. “Don’t go in all guns blazing,” he says. Start with a polite phone call to confirm they received your invoice. Often, payments are simply delayed due to busy schedules or admin errors.
4. Send invoices promptly and accurately
Sending invoices as soon as the job is complete speeds up the payment process. Many shippers appreciate having the invoice emailed immediately, as it helps them process payments faster.
Keeping your invoices organised also avoids unnecessary delays. If you’re a member of the Courier Exchange, uploading your invoices and PODs directly to the platform simplifies the process and makes it easy for shippers to find your details. And make sure you add courier VAT to the invoice if it applies.
5. Use the Courier Exchange Driver App to your advantage
For CX members, the Driver App is a valuable tool for building trust with shippers. Lee Gueller stresses the importance of keeping your tracker updated at all times.
“Always put that you’re on-site, loaded, or delivered,” he says. This gives shippers peace of mind and helps them handle their own customers more effectively. Non-CX couriers can replicate this approach by communicating regular updates via email or phone.
6. Get the POD details right
Accurate PODs are a must for professional couriers. Lee Gueller recommends always collecting a full name and signature, even if it feels like an extra step. “There’s nothing worse than getting a POD that just says ‘John,’ especially when there are 20 Johns at a site,” he explains.
Uploading clear PODs promptly not only improves your feedback but also speeds up payments. If you’re not using a platform like CX, ensure you send PODs directly to shippers as soon as the job is done.
7. Build trust by staying reliable
Reliability is one of the most important qualities in a courier. Accept jobs promptly and update shippers regularly to show you’re dependable.
Shippers want to know they can count on you. Whether it’s a simple update about your ETA or confirming you’ve delivered a package, these small actions make a big difference in building trust as a courier. This is especially helpful when handling return loads, where efficient communication can secure more work.
8. Handle late payments calmly and effectively
Late payments can be frustrating, but staying calm will help you resolve the issue faster. Start with a friendly reminder, and only escalate if needed.
Lee Gueller suggests giving shippers the benefit of the doubt initially. “Sometimes invoices genuinely get lost or overlooked,” he says. If a polite follow-up doesn’t work, you can always take a firmer tone later.
9. Focus on delivering great customer service
Going the extra mile for shippers and customers will set your independent courier company apart in a competitive market. Whether it’s being flexible with delivery times or proactively updating customers about delays, these actions leave a lasting impression.
Great service doesn’t just secure repeat business—it also boosts your feedback scores. Better feedback means more opportunities for owner-driver jobs and a stronger reputation in the industry.
10. Stay flexible and responsive
Things don’t always go to plan in the courier world. Delays, last-minute changes, and unexpected issues are part of the job. Staying flexible and responsive helps you keep shippers happy, even when challenges arise.
By being approachable and solution-oriented, you show shippers that you’re committed to getting the job done right. Whether you’re using CX or working independently, this attitude will help you stand out.
Conclusion
Lee Gueller’s advice highlights the importance of communication, professionalism, and using the right tools to succeed as a courier. Whether you’re new to pricing your courier jobs, managing return loads, or securing consistent work, these tips provide a strong foundation.
For couriers who are ready to scale their business, platforms like Courier Exchange can make a big difference. But even if you’re not a member, adopting these best practices will improve your relationships with shippers and help you build a successful career in the courier industry.
The article was published on . It was updated on 9 December 2024 to make it more relevant and comprehensive.
