Is Delivery Driving Worth It in 2025? Pay, Perks & Pitfalls Explained
Delivery driving isn’t just a stop-gap role anymore. For millions of people globally it’s become a fulfilling career move – sometimes offering better pay, more freedom, and the kind of lifestyle flexibility many other roles simply can’t match.
The rise of online shopping has significantly increased the need for delivery drivers across various sectors, including parcel delivery and food delivery. This means more opportunities, making delivery driving a stable and in-demand career choice.
We surveyed over 800 people across Europe to find out the reasons why so many people are swapping their old roles for the driver’s seat.
Delivery Driver Pay: Better Than You Might Expect
Our 2025 Delivery Driver Survey found that, on average, delivery drivers earn £33,470 a year – over £3,000 more than what our respondents said they made in previous roles. For many, that’s a 10.8% pay rise after making the switch.
While earnings can vary, the majority earn between £15k–£35k annually – a wide range that reflects the flexibility and earning potential of the role.
It’s not just people from transport roles making the leap either. Drivers come from all kinds of backgrounds. Our research found:
- 53.9% had completely different roles before
- 10.1% were students or unemployed
- Others came from manual trades, professional roles, and beyond
This shows that delivery driving isn’t just a fallback, it’s a new beginning for many.
Why People Love Delivery Driving
Our report found that 96.6% had something positive to say about their role, suggesting that those who choose delivery driving find genuine fulfilment in the role’s unique characteristics. Here’s what drivers love most:
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Autonomy & Flexibility
The number on perk? Control. Nearly 36% say they love being their own boss, working alone, and choosing when and how they work.
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Driving & Being Outdoors
For 1 in 5, the simple joy of bring on the road and out in the open beats any office environment.
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Human Connection
Despite the independence, many drivers enjoy meeting customers and being part of their day.
A Role That Fits Your Life
People don’t just choose delivery driving for the money; lifestyle plays a big part too. Our research revealed the most common reasons for being a delivery driver:
- A role that keeps you active and on the move.
- Autonomy in your day-to-day.
- Deliver across your community.
For adults aged 25–40, family-friendly hours were the top draw. For younger drivers and those over 40, staying active was key. Either way, people are choosing delivery driving because it works for their lives, not just their bank accounts.
Kindness on the Job: More Than You’d Expect
Being a delivery driver is about more than just dropping off parcels – it often comes with genuine, heartwarming moments that show how customers truly appreciate their delivery drivers.
From handwritten thank-you notes to unexpected bonuses and cups of tea on a cold day, 95% of drivers said they’ve experienced genuine kindness from the people they serve.
Some customers even go beyond a quick thank you. Our research found 19.2% of drivers have been offered refreshments, including water, coffee, ice cream and chocolates and 16.6% have received tips up to £170
These moments and small gestures matter and are a reminder that delivery work is more than a transaction.
The Bottom Line? A Role with Real Rewards
Whether you’re looking for a fresh start, or a role that fits around family life, delivery driving has become a go-to option for good reason.
While it’s not without its challenges – delivery driving can be physically demanding, involve long hours, tight deadlines and demanding customers – with decent pay, freedom to work your way, and a high level of job satisfaction, it’s not hard to see why so many are turning the key and starting a new career behind the wheel.