This is geared mostly towards non CDL drivers, such as FedEx or UPS or other delivery services. Of course CDL drivers may get something from it as well so please read on. Just so you know, that I know of which I speak, I was a delivery driver for 7 years for a major auto parts store, delivering at night to stores. And I am currently a driver for one of the above companies.
First the driving part. You have to be safe, if you went through driver safety training, do what they told you, this stuff works. I strongly advise you keep a safe following distance from drivers in front of you. And keep a safe distance from a traffic light if you’re the first in line. That way if somebody comes up too fast, you can both move up and give em more room. Or if they do hit you, you probably won’t be pushed into the intersection to be hit broadside by another car. Also when taking off at a fresh green light, give it a couple of seconds, in case somebody runs the light from another direction. The most important thing about the delivery is not to back up. Try to position your van or truck to where you don’t have to back up at all times. The vast majority of accidents in this industry take place when backing up.
Also while driving, be courteous to other drivers. You have your company name on your truck; you represent that company and should try to put them in a good light. The more people respect that company, the more they will use it, thus making sure you have a job, putting more money in your pocket.
That ties into being courteous when making your deliveries. Be nice to the customers, and they will use the company again. You don’t have to strike up a 30 min conversation, just be polite. Say you’re walking up their driveway and see their newspaper sitting there, pick it up and leave it with the package. Little things DO matter to your customers.
Dogs are man’s best friend, unless he happens to be a delivery driver. You will have problems with dogs and you can’t just kick the heck out of a customer’s dog. A dog whistle (if your company permits this) may work, but so do doggie treats. Carry some on you and toss a few to an aggressive dog and he may just eat them instead of you.
Finding an address. This to me is the most difficult part of the job if you’re delivering to homes, businesses are a little easier to find. Lot’s of homes don’t have house numbers, or they are not in order. Make a note of the family name on the manifest, and look for a mailbox with that last name if there is no house number. Also if you see somebody out in the neighborhood ask them if they know the person. Also some of the delivery manifests may have their phone number, you can call and see if they are at home to give better directions.
These are a few tips that should help you. Just remember to be safe out there on those mean ole highways.
