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Business & Growth

Top tips for growing your courier business

#business tips #owner drivers

Discover effective strategies for growing your courier business. Learn how to expand your client base and get more loads.

Growing your courier business requires a lot of effort and persistence. But if you use the right methods and put the work in, you’ll start getting more loads and more clients.

Whether you’re an experienced owner-driver or just starting out, here are some tips to help you reach the next level. 

Cold calls and emails

The most traditional way to reach potential clients is through cold calls and emails. While it may seem intimidating, it can be very effective if done correctly.

Crafting the perfect message

When sending emails, make sure they are concise and to the point. Avoid long messages and ensure all key information is included. A well-crafted email should grab the recipient’s attention and give them a reason to respond. 

Cold calling tips

Prepare a script before making calls. This will help you stay focused and cover all the important points. Practice your script to sound natural and confident. 

You’ll probably get a lot of rejections, but a successful call could turn into a valuable long-term business opportunity.

Persistence is key

Cold calling and emailing require patience. Expect a low response rate, but stay optimistic. Each new client can significantly contribute to your business growth.

Using social media to grow your courier business

In today’s digital age, social media is a powerful tool for growing your courier business.

Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and even TikTok can help you reach a wider audience and engage with potential clients. 

Building an online presence

Use social media to showcase your services and past work. Post regular updates about your business, share customer testimonials, and engage with your followers. An active online presence can attract potential clients and build trust.

Engagement and trust

Social media allows you to interact with your audience directly. Respond to comments and messages promptly. Engaging with your followers builds a sense of community and trust, which can lead to more business opportunities.

Networking

Social media platforms are great for networking. Connect with other professionals in the industry, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions. Networking can open doors to new partnerships and clients.

Word of mouth

Word of mouth is one of the most powerful ways to grow your courier business. Satisfied clients are your best promoters.

Grow your courier business with referrals

When clients are happy with your service, they are likely to recommend you to others. Encourage satisfied customers to refer you to their friends, family, and colleagues. A personal recommendation carries more weight than any advertisement.

Building a reputation

The longer you provide reliable service, the more referrals you’ll receive. Consistency and quality in your service will help you build a solid reputation. Over time, your reputation will attract more clients.

Word of mouth leads to steady growth. Each new client can bring in several more through referrals. This may take time, but it is highly effective in building a loyal customer base.

How Courier Exchange helps

Being a CX member is the quickest path to finding more work, connecting with potential clients and partners, and scaling your business. 

The largest logistics platform in the UK, CX brings together the largest shippers and the best couriers, making it easy to find jobs, cut down on empty miles and even post excess work.  

Access to a larger network

By joining the Courier Exchange, you can connect with a vast network of shippers and other couriers. With access to over 8,000 CX members nationwide, you will build relationships in the industry and increase your chances of finding work.

Thousands of daily loads

The Courier Exchange sees an average of at least 13,000 loads posted every day, giving you constant access to work. You can choose jobs that fit your schedule and route, making your operations more efficient.

You can pick and choose jobs based on your availability, local area, preferred routes, cargo type, etc. This flexibility helps you manage your time better and increase your earnings.

Successfully completing jobs on CX allows you to build a positive reputation within the community. Positive reviews and ratings on CX will attract even more work.

Conclusion

Growing your courier business requires consistent effort and the right strategies. By combining cold outreach, online engagement, word of mouth, and leveraging the Courier Exchange, you can steadily expand your client base.

Whether you are an experienced courier or just starting, these methods can help you grow your business. Remember, success doesn’t come overnight. However, with enough time and effort, there is no limit to how far you can scale a small courier business.

Keep at it, and you’ll start seeing results in no time.

As an owner drivers, you know that delivering goods efficiently and on time is crucial to your success. However, despite meticulous planning and preparation, unexpected delays and disruptions can sometimes occur, causing frustration for both you and your customers. In this article, we will explore some practical tips on how to handle these unforeseen challenges and ensure your deliveries stay on track.

Stay Informed and Be Prepared:

To effectively handle unexpected delays, it is vital to stay informed about any potential disruptions that may impact your route or schedule. Courier Exchange, a leading platform for owner drivers and courier companies, offers valuable real-time information and updates on traffic conditions, road closures, and other relevant factors. Utilize this platform to stay ahead of the game and plan your routes accordingly. View our Live Loads Map here.

Communicate with Your Customers:

Communication is key when facing unexpected delays. Notify your customers promptly if you encounter any issues that may affect the agreed delivery time. Use clear and concise language to explain the situation, apologize for the inconvenience caused, and provide an estimated revised delivery time. By keeping your customers informed, you can manage their expectations and maintain a positive professional relationship.

Seek Alternative Routes or Delivery Options:

When confronted with unexpected delays, explore alternative routes that may help you bypass the congestion or obstacle. Utilize GPS navigation systems or apps to find the most efficient detour. Additionally, consider alternative delivery options, such as drop-off points or collection hubs, where customers can retrieve their parcels conveniently. Flexibility is key in ensuring successful deliveries despite disruptions. Read more about our TMS integrations here.

Collaborate with Other Owner Drivers:

The Courier Exchange platform can also facilitate collaboration and cooperation among owner drivers and couriers. In case of unexpected delays, consider reaching out to nearby drivers who may be able to assist in delivering your parcels or taking over certain routes. By working together, you can minimize the impact of disruptions and maintain a high level of customer satisfaction.

Maintain a Contingency Plan:

Preparing a contingency plan is essential to handle unforeseen events smoothly. This plan should include alternative delivery routes, backup drivers or vehicles, and contact information for customer support or dispatch. By having a well-thought-out contingency plan in place, you can act swiftly and efficiently in the face of unexpected delays, minimising any potential negative impact.

As an owner driver or courier company, dealing with unexpected delays and disruptions is an inevitable part of the job. By staying informed, communicating effectively, exploring alternative options, collaborating with fellow drivers, and maintaining a contingency plan, you can navigate through these challenges and ensure your deliveries are completed successfully. Remember, being adaptable and proactive is the key to maintaining customer satisfaction and running a successful delivery business.

To learn more about our pricing and plans, click here.

Starting your own courier business is an exciting opportunity. It gives you independence, flexibility, and the chance to grow something that’s all yours. But getting it right isn’t always easy. A few common mistakes can make life harder than it needs to be.

Whether you’re launching as a sole trader or setting up a limited company, knowing what to avoid can help you save time, money, and stress.

Let’s look at the mistakes new couriers make and how to get off to a great start.

Skipping market research

Jumping straight into the courier business without understanding the market is a big risk. It’s tempting to dive into work and hope for the best, but knowing your area and customer needs makes all the difference.

Start by asking yourself: who are your competitors? Are there any services they don’t provide that you could offer? What kinds of courier jobs are in demand locally?

For example, you might find that same-day delivery or specialised services, like handling fragile goods, are lacking in your area. Identifying these gaps helps you tailor your services and attract the right customers.

Choosing the wrong insurance

Nobody likes thinking about insurance, but it’s one of the most important things to get right. Without the right cover, a single accident could cost you thousands and put your courier business at risk.

You’ll need comprehensive courier insurance that includes:

• Vehicle cover: Protects your van or car from accidents or damage.
• Goods in transit: Covers the items you’re delivering in case of theft, loss, or damage.
• Public liability insurance: Protects you if someone is injured or their property is damaged while you’re working.

It’s worth shopping around for a policy that fits your business needs. The right insurance doesn’t just protect your finances—it also gives customers confidence that their parcels are in safe hands.

Ignoring legal and tax requirements

Getting the legal and tax setup right from the start avoids a lot of headaches later on. Whether you’re operating as a sole trader or a limited company, the structure you choose will affect how you register, pay taxes, and manage your finances.

Setting up your business

Sole traders need to register with HMRC and file a Self Assessment tax return each year. It’s a simple process and works well if you’re starting small. If you’re thinking about hiring staff or scaling up, setting up a limited company might be a better option.

Limited companies need to register with Companies House and submit annual accounts. While it involves more paperwork, it offers benefits like limited liability and tax advantages.

Understanding taxes

Don’t forget about courier VAT if your turnover exceeds the VAT threshold. It changes how you invoice customers and handle cash flow, so it’s worth planning for early on.

Poor route planning

Time is everything in the courier business. If you’re not planning your routes properly, you’re wasting fuel, time, and money.

Invest in route-planning tools or apps that help you find the fastest, most efficient way to complete deliveries. These tools often include traffic updates and can save you from sitting in queues or taking unnecessary detours.

Even if you’re just starting out, making route planning part of your routine keeps you organised and avoids letting customers down with late deliveries.

Forgetting about customer service

In a competitive market, good customer service sets you apart. It’s not enough to deliver parcels on time—customers need to feel they’re getting a professional and reliable service.

Here are a few tips for building loyalty:

• Communicate clearly: Let customers know when their delivery will arrive and keep them updated on any delays.
• Offer tracking: Real-time updates make customers feel in control and reduce the number of queries you’ll have to handle.
• Handle complaints well: Everyone makes mistakes, but how you respond to them can make or break your reputation.

If customers feel cared for, they’re more likely to stick with you—and recommend your services to others.

Avoiding technology

Technology isn’t just for big businesses—it can help small courier companies work smarter and compete. From route-planning apps to online booking systems, there are plenty of tools to make life easier.

Helpful tools for couriers

• Freight platforms: Services like Courier Exchange connect you with other businesses, helping you find work and expand your client base.
• Digital tracking systems: These let customers follow their deliveries in real-time, reducing enquiries and boosting trust.

Embracing the right technology doesn’t just save time—it also makes your business more professional and attractive to potential clients.

Underestimating costs

It’s easy to focus on getting jobs in and forget about the true costs of running a business. But overlooking expenses like vehicle maintenance, fuel, and tools can quickly eat into your profits.

Building a detailed courier business plan helps you understand your costs and set the right prices for your services. Don’t forget about fixed costs, like insurance, and variable costs, like fuel. Planning for quieter periods is also important so you’re not caught short when work slows down.

Not planning for growth

Starting small is a great way to learn the ropes, but thinking about the future helps you build a sustainable business. Whether you’re aiming to grow your fleet, hire staff, or specialise in certain types of deliveries, having a plan makes it easier to spot opportunities and handle challenges.

For example, hiring staff in the future might mean switching from a sole trader to a limited company structure. This shift could help you protect your personal assets and scale more easily. Whatever your plans, staying flexible and prepared will help you stay ahead.

Conclusion

Starting a courier business in the UK comes with plenty of opportunities, but avoiding common mistakes makes the journey much smoother.

Take the time to research your market, get the right insurance, and set up your legal and tax structure properly. Build strong customer relationships, embrace technology, and always keep an eye on your costs.

With a bit of planning and care, you’ll be well on your way to growing your courier business and building something that lasts. Whether you’re a sole trader or a limited company, the decisions you make now will set the tone for your future success.

Effective fleet management is crucial for securing courier contracts in an increasing competitive UK market. With the advent of digital platforms like Courier Exchange, managing your fleet and obtaining new courier contracts has become more streamlined and accessible. This article explores how you can optimise your fleet management practices on Courier Exchange to successfully secure courier contracts in the UK.

Learn more about how you can manage your Fleet on Courier Exchange in 6 easy steps: 

Register on Courier Exchange

The first step towards managing your fleet on Courier Exchange and accessing courier contracts in the UK is to register as a member. You can book a live demo and create an account. To create an account you will need to provide accurate details about your fleet, including vehicle types, capacities, and availability, so that we can recommend the right membership for you. This allows potential clients to find and engage your services based on their specific requirements. Learn more about our different memberships here.

Showcase your Fleet’s Capabilities

To attract clients and increase your chances of securing courier contracts, it is essential to highlight the capabilities and strengths of your fleet. Provide detailed information about your vehicles, such as their size, weight capacity, and any special features or certifications. Emphasise any unique selling points, such as eco-friendly vehicles or real-time tracking systems, which may set your fleet apart from competitors.

Maintain Accurate and Updated Fleet Information

To ensure smooth fleet management on Courier Exchange, it is crucial to keep your fleet information accurate and up to date. Regularly review and update vehicle availability, any changes in capacity or specifications, and your preferred service areas. This ensures that clients searching for courier services can rely on the information you provide, increasing the likelihood of securing contracts.

Use Courier Exchange’s Notifications and Alerts

Courier Exchange offers various notifications and alerts features that can help manage your fleet effectively. Set up alerts for new courier contract opportunities that match your fleet’s capabilities and preferred routes. Stay informed about any changes in delivery requirements, pickup locations, or cancellations to optimise your fleet’s scheduling and capacity utilisation. Learn more here.

Leverage the Feedback and Ratings System

Maintaining a positive reputation is crucial for securing courier contracts in the UK. Courier Exchange’s feedback and ratings system allows clients to provide reviews based on their experience with your fleet. Delivering exceptional service and prioritising customer satisfaction can help you build a strong reputation and attract more business through positive ratings and reviews. Learn more about hot to get positive feedback on our platform in this short video by Pete the Courier here.

Build Strong Relationships with Clients

Building and nurturing relationships with clients is key to long-term success in securing courier contracts. Foster open and clear communication channels, promptly address any concerns or issues, and strive to exceed client expectations. A satisfied client is more likely to offer repeat business and refer your services to others, further expanding your network and contract opportunities.

Efficient fleet management on Courier Exchange can significantly enhance your ability to secure courier contracts in the competitive UK market. By registering your fleet, showcasing its capabilities, maintaining accurate information, utilising notifications and alerts, leveraging feedback and ratings, and building strong client relationships, you can maximise your chances of success. Embrace the digital tools and resources provided by Courier Exchange to streamline your fleet management and unlock your fleet’s potential.

Book a demo with sales or register for a callback here.

In the fast-paced world of logistics and transportation, efficiency and reliability are crucial elements for success. The traditional method of handling paper-based proof of delivery (POD) systems has long been a bottleneck in the industry, leading to delays, errors, and inefficiencies. However, with the advent of electronic proof of delivery (ePOD) systems, such as those found on platforms like Courier Exchange, the landscape of delivery management has been revolutionised. This blog post explores the concept of ePODs, their benefits, and how they’re transforming the courier industry. 

Electronic Proof of Delivery (ePOD) is a digital alternative to the traditional paper-based POD system. It enables real-time tracking and captures detailed information about the delivery process, providing visibility and accountability to all parties involved. Courier Exchange, a leading online platform for freight exchange and courier work, has embraced ePOD technology to optimize delivery operations and enhance customer satisfaction.

Why should owner drivers use ePODs? 

Real-time Tracking and Visibility

With ePODs, couriers and freight forwarders can track deliveries in real-time, allowing them to monitor the progress of each shipment accurately. This increased visibility enables better communication with customers, as they can be informed about estimated delivery times and any potential delays. It also allows dispatchers and logistics managers to proactively manage routes and address any issues that may arise promptly.

Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity

By eliminating the need for paper-based documentation, ePOD systems reduce manual paperwork and administrative tasks. Owner drivers can efficiently capture signatures, delivery photos, and relevant data electronically using smartphones or tablets. This streamlined process saves time, reduces errors, and enables drivers to focus on their primary task—efficiently transporting goods.

Improved Customer Experience

One of the key advantages of ePOD systems is their ability to provide customers with real-time updates and notifications. With Courier Exchange’s ePOD functionality, customers can receive automated notifications about the status of their deliveries, including proof of delivery with signatures and timestamps. This transparency builds trust, enhances the customer experience, and promotes customer loyalty.

Accurate Documentation and Record Keeping

ePOD systems offer the advantage of accurate and easily accessible digital records. All relevant delivery data, including signatures, timestamps, and any special instructions, are securely stored and readily available for future reference. This eliminates the need for physical storage space and minimises the risk of losing important documentation, making audits and compliance procedures much more efficient.

Electronic Proof of Delivery (ePOD) systems have emerged as a game-changer in the courier industry, streamlining delivery operations, enhancing efficiency, and improving customer satisfaction. Courier Exchange’s ePOD functionality provides real-time tracking, accurate documentation, and increased visibility, enabling couriers to deliver an exceptional customer experience. By joining our platform and using this feature, logistics companies can stay ahead of the competition, reduce costs, and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future in the transportation sector.

If you’re interested in the freedom and flexibility of owner driver jobs in the courier industry, Courier Exchange offers a valuable platform to connect with businesses and secure courier contracts in the UK.

Whether you’re starting your own courier business or looking to expand your existing operations, this article will guide you through the essential steps to become a successful courier on Courier Exchange and secure lucrative contracts.

Obtain the necessary licenses and permits

Before starting your journey as a courier, it’s crucial to ensure you have the appropriate licenses and permits. In the UK, you will typically need a valid driver’s license, vehicle insurance, and vehicle registration documents. If you plan to transport certain goods or operate specific types of vehicles, additional permits or certifications may be required. Familiarise yourself with the legal requirements to operate as a courier in your area.

Build a reliable and suitable vehicle fleet

Your vehicle is the backbone of your courier business. Ensure you have a reliable and well-maintained fleet of vehicles suitable for the type of deliveries you intend to handle. Consider factors such as vehicle size, capacity, fuel efficiency, and any specialised requirements for specific types of deliveries. Maintaining your vehicles in optimal condition is essential to provide a reliable and efficient service to your clients.

Obtain appropriate insurance coverage

Insurance is a vital aspect of operating as a courier. Adequate insurance coverage protects you, your vehicle, and the goods you transport. It’s crucial to have comprehensive commercial vehicle insurance that covers any potential risks associated with courier services. Consult with insurance providers specialising in the courier industry to ensure you have the necessary coverage for your business.

Develop a professional online presence

Establishing a professional online presence is crucial for attracting potential clients and securing courier contracts on and off the Courier Exchange. Create a website that highlights your services, coverage area, and contact information. Utilise social media platforms to promote your business and engage with potential clients. Positive customer reviews and testimonials can enhance your credibility and reputation, increasing your chances of securing contracts.

Provide exceptional customer service 

Delivering exceptional customer service is key to building a strong reputation and securing repeat business. Strive to exceed customer expectations by ensuring timely and secure deliveries, maintaining open communication, and addressing any issues promptly and professionally. A satisfied customer is more likely to provide positive feedback and recommend your services to others, increasing your chances of securing more contracts.

Leverage Courier Exchange features

Courier Exchange offers various features and tools to help you secure courier contracts effectively. Utilise Future Positions and Future Journeys to advertise your availability and expand your reach. Regularly check the platform for new delivery requests and promptly respond to notifications to demonstrate your reliability. Familiarise yourself with Courier Exchange’s payment and rating systems to ensure a smooth and transparent transaction process.

Becoming a successful courier on Courier Exchange requires careful planning, dedication, and a commitment to providing exceptional service. By following the essential steps outlined in this article, such as obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, registering on Courier Exchange, building a reliable vehicle fleet, acquiring appropriate insurance coverage, developing a professional online presence, delivering outstanding customer service, and leveraging Courier Exchange features, you can position yourself for success in securing lucrative courier contracts in the UK. 

Remember, persistence and a customer-centric approach are essential to thrive in the competitive courier industry.

For owner drivers in Birmingham, Leicester, and the wider Midlands region, the courier industry presents a plethora of exciting opportunities. Recent Courier Exchange April 2023 reports revealed a significant number of uncovered loads, emphasizing the demand for courier services in these areas. 

A Wealth of Job Opportunities in Birmingham and Leicester

The courier market in Birmingham and Leicester is brimming with potential, as evidenced by the significant number of uncovered loads in April 2023. Approximately 6,000 loads were left unfulfilled in Birmingham, while Leicester saw nearly 4,000 unmet demands. These figures represent a vast pool of jobs waiting to be taken, providing owner drivers with ample opportunities to secure contracts and establish a thriving business presence in these regions.

The Midlands region, with its bustling economy and strategic location, serves as a thriving hub for courier services. In April 2023 alone, nearly 66,000 loads were posted in the Midlands. This data reflects the high demand for reliable, efficient, and professional courier services in the region, making it an ideal landscape for owner drivers to expand their operations and secure valuable contracts. 

Courier Exchange, with its vast network and extensive marketplace, connects owner drivers directly to the numerous uncovered loads across the country. This ensures a steady flow of job opportunities, allowing owner drivers to maximize their earning potential and grow their business.

Data-Driven Insights

Through our platform, we empower owner drivers to handle orders, track deliveries, and communicate with customers seamlessly. This efficiency contributes to a positive customer experience, strengthening relationships and fostering repeat business.

Courier Exchange offers valuable data and insights to owner drivers, helping them make informed decisions about their operations. 

Serving as a powerful platform, we connect owner drivers with new opportunities, enhancing visibility, and streamlining operations. By embracing the potential of Courier Exchange and tapping into different markets across the country, owner drivers can embark on an exciting journey of growth, success, and fulfilment in their business endeavours. 

For owner drivers in the courier industry, staying competitive and securing contracts can be a challenging endeavour. In today’s digital age, technology has become a vital ally in navigating this landscape. That’s where Courier Exchange comes into play. In this blog post, we will explore the incredible benefits of owner drivers joining Courier Exchange, and provide insights into how to secure valuable courier contracts in the UK through our platform.

Unleashing the Power of Courier Exchange for Owner Drivers

Courier Exchange offers a multitude of advantages to owner drivers looking to level up their courier services. By joining Courier Exchange, owner drivers gain access to a platform that streamlines operations, enhances customer communication, and provides valuable resources to grow their business.

So, what does that mean, exactly? 

Courier Exchange simplifies order management, enabling owner drivers to efficiently handle and track their deliveries in one centralised system. This saves time, reduces errors, and enhances overall operational efficiency. 

We provide integrated communication channels that empower owner drivers to interact with customers seamlessly. Timely updates, estimated arrival times, and addressing customer inquiries become effortless, fostering stronger customer relationships.

With Courier Exchange, owner drivers can harness the power of real-time tracking. This enables them to provide customers with precise information about their loads, building trust and ensuring transparent delivery experiences.

Our intelligent routing algorithms optimize delivery routes, allowing owner drivers to maximize efficiency and minimize travel time. This improves productivity, reduces fuel costs, and ensures faster deliveries, enhancing customer satisfaction.

How you too can secure courier contracts on Courier Exchange 

Our platform will enable you to understand the demand for courier services in different industries and regions within the UK. You can also identify potential niches or underserved markets that align with your expertise and capabilities. 

The most important thing to remember is that establishing connections within the courier industry by networking with members and receiving positive reviews, will help you get more business long-term. Collaborating with other couriers or courier associations can provide valuable insights and potential contract opportunities. Our platform serves as a gateway to connecting owner drivers with a wide range of available loads and contract opportunities.

If you want to thrive on Courier Exchange like other couriers, you should strive to provide exceptional service to your customers. Delight them with timely deliveries, clear communication, and personalized experiences. Positive customer reviews and testimonials will significantly boost your reputation and attract more contract opportunities.

For owner drivers in the UK courier industry, joining forces with Courier Exchange opens up a world of opportunities. From streamlining operations to enhancing customer communication and securing valuable contracts, Courier Exchange empowers owner drivers to thrive in a competitive market. By utilizing Courier Exchange’s powerful platform and incorporating strategies to secure courier contracts in the UK, owner drivers can elevate their business and unlock new levels of success. So, gear up, embrace the digital transformation, and embark on an exciting journey that leads to growth, profitability, and a thriving courier career.

On CX, the most common way to get loads is by using our live loads map.

The second way to get loads on the Exchange is by direct bookings. Here, instead of you contacting load posters, load posters contact you directly.

To receive direct bookings, you need to be available… which is a setting you set through our app.

The more available you are, the more chance you have of getting direct bookings, which means more money in your pocket. And all it takes is a few phone taps…

2. Get good feedback

In a recent survey, we asked load posters what they looked for when choosing carriers and drivers.

Good feedback was their number one response.

Simply put, when you have good feedback, you can expect to make more money on the Exchange. You can expect to get more bookings. And you can expect to make more per mile. The question is: how do you get good feedback?

Well, load posters want to work with companies who deliver loads on time and in a good condition. They also want to work with companies who go above and beyond and communicate well. (Using our app can help here – you can share your live location, which keeps customers updated of your ETA while you’re driving.)

But what you really need to do – and what most people don’t do – is ask for feedback. So, once you’ve delivered a load, ask your customer to write about it on our platform… especially if you’ve gone above and beyond.

3. Offer specialist services

If you have specialised skills or expertise, you can charge higher rates for your services.

For example, if you’re experienced in handling fragile items, you may be able to offer a premium service for delicate packages. Similarly, if you’re trained in transporting hazardous materials, you can offer a specialised service that commands a higher price tag.

By offering specialised services, you can work with load posters willing to pay more for your expertise.

4. Use Future Positions

On the Exchange, most members looking for loads tend to look for loads in their current location as and when they need them.

That’s great, but it’s limiting. After all, if you know you’re going from Brighton to Birmingham, do you really need to wait until you’re in Birmingham to get your next load?

The answer is: not when you’re on the Exchange.

One of the Exchange’s lesser-known (but most powerful) features is Future Positions. With Future Positions, you can plug in where your vehicle will be at pretty much any point in the future. As soon as you do, you can get notifications of available loads that fit your future position. Better still, load posters will know where you’re going to be and when – so they can book you direct in advance.

Let’s say you’re travelling from Brighton to Birmingham tomorrow, arriving at midday, and returning at 3pm. Using the Exchange, you might set your future position as in Birmingham from 12.30pm to 3pm. You can then get notifications whenever load posters post loads with pickup points in and around Birmingham exactly when you’re going to be in the area. Even better, load posters searching for drivers will be able to see when you’re going to be in Birmingham so they can book you direct.

Future Positions allows you to plan ahead, and it can reduce your dead miles. All in, that means you can make even more money on the Exchange.

5. Use Future Journeys

Future Positions is very smart. But even smarter is Future Journeys.

With Future Journeys, you can let the Exchange know not just where you’re going to be, but where you’re travelling to. Continuing the example above, if you know you’re leaving Birmingham at 3pm tomorrow to head back to Brighton, you can plug your upcoming journey into the Exchange. Once you’ve done that, you can get notifications of jobs that take into account your future journey.

You might get something from Birmingham to Oxford, say. Then, you might grab a load to transport from Reading to Brighton. It’s on your way. So the Exchange will tell you.

Future Journeys is yet another way to reduce your dead miles so you make even more money on Courier Exchange.

6. Use TEG PPM

To make more money on the Exchange, you need to get your pricing right. That’s hard when prices:

1. Vary based on you vehicle type
2. Vary based on your location
3. And change constantly due to fuel price changes, demand changes, economic changes, and many other factors

Luckily, with TEG PPM, pricing isn’t guesswork.

TEG PPM averages and categorises almost all the journeys on the Exchange to give you a good idea of current prices per mile.

As you can see, TEG PPM shows you prices per mile for specific vehicles in specific locations. It gives you guidance on pricing so you can make informed decisions.

Even better, TEG PPM updates weekly, so when prices change – you know about it.

7. Expand your service area

If you’re willing to cover a bigger area, you can access more jobs on the Courier Exchange.

It’s rare you’ll need to do this. But if and when you end up getting a second or third vehicle, you may wish to expand your service area to see what else is out there. (Just be sure to factor in the cost of fuel and other expenses when doing so.)

To sum up…

Once you’re off the mark, there are a few things you can do to try to make more money on the Exchange. Availability, feedback, specialised services, Future Positions, Future Journeys, informed pricing and an expanded service area can all help.

It’s easy to ignore these tactics. After all, running a courier business is hard enough as it is. But then success as a self-employed courier requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to go above and beyond for your customers. And if you already have those qualities, then the above tactics shouldn’t be too daunting at all.

If you’re not currently an Exchange member and would like to see how it works, simply register your details below.

Register now

The price per mile for ‘direct’ bookings is often greater than average. This is more evidence for the point made earlier: load posters are willing to pay more for a good courier.

So, how much can you really earn on the Exchange?

To sum up:

• Couriers looking for loads can use our earnings calculator to see how much you could earn on Courier Exchange
• The earnings calculator is based on average prices per mile for your vehicle and location
• Other factors for how much you can earn are: whether you’re just taking loads or if you’re also posting excess work, your mix of hotshots or backloads, your services, your feedback score, and the percentage of direct bookings you receive
• You could earn more than the earnings calculator suggests
• To find out the average price-per-mile in your area (and see how much work is available) register your details and our team will show you

As we approach peak season, logistics companies are gearing up to cope with one of the busiest times of year.

It’s not only Christmas that brings a spike in demand for deliveries: Black Friday this November 25^th is looking to generate a huge surge. Last year saw sales in excess of £9.2 bn in the UK alone, with multiple retailers launching sales events as early as the end of October.

Christmas 2021 saw retail sales rise by over 7% in the UK, but whilst that was inflated by lock-down in the first half of the year, expectations are that E-commerce will see another record-breaking season in 2022. This increase in demand calls for effective management of drivers and delivery workforce to handle seasonal spikes.

Peak pressures

If managing fleets, couriers and tracking delivery operations is hectic on normal days, it is even more complicated during peak seasons.

Recruiting and training new staff or subcontractors is just one of the demands that puts logistics and courier companies under further pressure. Advertising, recruiting, training and managing all the additional paperwork and documentation is an added headache during a time when courier companies are already overburdened.  

Furthermore, efficient route planning and dispatching is critical during peak times, since the last leg of any shipment accounts for over 50% of the entire transportation costs. Any failure to deliver or use an incorrect route will increase delivery costs.

Driver recruitment

For managing the staffing side, there are several innovative workforce management technology systems available which are designed to streamline the process around onboarding, wages, contracts and admin, etc. The Courier Exchange is a great example of this, with a fully compliant network of verified professionals to make your recruitment process seamless.

Insurance

As your workforce grows to meet demand, don’t forget about the insurance side. Our insurance partner Business Choice Direct (BCD) can provide members with advice and the best rates for courier and haulage insurance:

Source: https://optimoroute.com/last-mile-delivery/

Business Choice Direct Insurance Services Ltd  are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Business Choice Direct Insurance Services Ltd is registered in England and Wales No. 10301653.  Registered Office: Affinity House, Bindon Road, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 6AA.

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