| Educational Attainment Breakdown for Couriers and Messengers |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
College or Higher |
12.3% |
|
|
|
|
|
Some College |
36.1% |
|
|
|
|
|
High School or Less |
51.6% |
|
|
|
|
Most Significant Source of Postsecondary Education or Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Source: U.S. Department of Labor
Most couriers and messengers train on the job. Communication skills, a good driving record, and good sense of direction are helpful.
Education and training. Most courier and messenger jobs do not require workers to have more than a high school diploma. Couriers and messengers usually learn as they work, training with an experienced worker for a short time.
Other qualifications. Couriers and messengers need a good knowledge of the area in which they travel and a good sense of direction. Employers also prefer to hire people who are familiar with computers and other electronic office and business equipment. In addition, good oral and written communication skills are important because communicating with customers and dispatchers is an integral part of some courier and messenger jobs.
Those who work as independent contractors for a messenger or delivery service may be required to have a valid driver's license, a registered and inspected vehicle, a good driving record, and insurance coverage. Many couriers and messengers, who are employees rather than independent contractors, also are required to provide and maintain their own vehicle. Although some companies have spare bicycles or mopeds that their riders may rent for a short period, almost all two-wheeled couriers own their own bicycle, moped, or motorcycle.
Advancement. Couriers and messengers have limited advancement opportunities. However, one avenue for advancement is to learn dispatching or to take service requests by phone.
Some independent contractors become master contractors. Master contractors organize routes for multiple independent contractors through courier agencies.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook
[Back to Top]