Patrick MacFarland ·
Updated June 9, 2026
Looking For Courier Driver Jobs?
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On our site, you’ll find hundreds of shipments that need delivering, and be able to place BIDS to win that shipment, make the delivery, and get paid! As long as you’ve got transportation, you can join Citizenshipper.com!
Few jobs are as satisfying as being a Courier Driver. For the most part, a courier driver gets to set his/her own hours, can decide how much they want to make, and not have to work in a claustrophobic office.
Lots of people are looking into the freelance courier industry these days as a way to make extra cash on the evenings and weekends, and even as a full-time job. One thing is for certain, there will always be people looking to get things shipped from point A to point B.
How to Start as a Courier Driver
Here at CitizenShipper.com, we operate a shipping marketplace where freelance drivers can log in and quickly browse hundreds of shipments that need to be delivered. There is a wide range of shipment categories including small parcels, pets, motorcycles, furniture, vehicles, and even apartment moves. We have something for just about everyone.
If you own a small vehicle or even a motorbike then you’re more likely to be interested in some of the smaller, handheld deliveries that are posted on our site. However, if you own a truck, flatbed, or even a semi – then some of the larger shipments may be of interest to you. Fortunately, there are shipments for almost every vehicle type.
Courier Driver Requirements
The requirements to become a courier driver vary depending on the company, platform, and type of cargo being transported, but most drivers must meet minimum standards related to insurance, background checks, and vehicle suitability.
Insurance Requirements
At a minimum, courier drivers typically need a valid personal auto insurance policy that meets state requirements. Drivers who transport goods professionally may also need commercial auto insurance or additional cargo coverage, depending on the type of deliveries they perform. Some platforms require proof of insurance before allowing drivers to accept jobs.
Background Checks
Most courier companies and transportation marketplaces conduct background checks as part of the onboarding process. These screenings often review criminal history, driving records, license status, and past safety violations. Customers frequently prefer drivers who have passed verified background checks, particularly when transporting valuable items, vehicles, or pets.
Vehicle Requirements
Courier drivers generally need a reliable vehicle that matches the type of shipments they plan to transport. Small-package couriers may use sedans, SUVs, or cargo vans, while drivers transporting motorcycles, furniture, vehicles, or equipment may need trailers, pickup trucks, enclosed cargo trailers, or specialized transport equipment. Vehicles should be well-maintained, properly registered, and capable of safely securing cargo during transit.
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Meeting these requirements helps drivers qualify for more transportation opportunities while giving customers confidence that their shipments will be handled safely and professionally.
How Much Do Courier Drivers Make?
One question that is frequently asked is “How much can I make?”. This will depend on the size of the shipment, and how far it needs to travel. Typical courier rates are between $1 and $2 per mile. So, a local job could pocket you somewhere in the range of a few hundred dollars, whereas something that needs to go out of state could very well be worth thousands of dollars. And the reality is that, according to ZipRecruiter and other salary websites, you can make up to $40,000 per year as a courier driver.
One very popular way to use this site is for the case that you are planning on making a trip somewhere anyway. Let’s say you’ve got the weekend off, and plan to drive to a nearby city to visit friends and relatives. Why not search our site and find a shipment that needs taking along? That way, you’ll have your gas paid for, and probably make a little extra on the side.
Another way this site could be used is to help pay for a road trip. If you’re thinking of taking a few days off, and seeing the country by road, you could plan your trip based on CitizenShipper deliveries. That way, you get to enjoy the open country, and not worry about how much gas is costing you!
Why Choose CitizenShipper for Courier Work
One of the ways we help you win jobs is by allowing you to build a profile. On your profile, you can upload pictures of yourself and your vehicle. This gives potential customers confidence that your vehicle is up to the job, and by adding a picture of yourself, the client knows who to expect and feels more confidence in selecting you. We also operate a feedback system so you can build your reputation. When you make a bid, clients see feedback that has been left by your previous clients and this further provides the client with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Requirements vary by company and shipment type, but most courier drivers need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, a reliable vehicle, and the ability to pass a background check. Drivers transporting larger items may also need specialized equipment such as trailers or cargo vans. Courier driver earnings depend on distance, shipment size, and the number of jobs completed. Typical courier rates range from $1 to $2 per mile. Local deliveries may generate a few hundred dollars, while long-distance shipments can be worth significantly more. Some drivers earn up to $40,000 per year or higher depending on workload and route availability. Courier drivers can transport a wide variety of items, including small packages, pets, motorcycles, furniture, vehicles, equipment, and household goods. The types of shipments available often depend on the driver's vehicle size and capabilities. Not necessarily. Many courier drivers use standard cars, SUVs, or cargo vans for small deliveries. Larger shipments such as motorcycles, furniture, or vehicles may require a pickup truck, trailer, flatbed, or other specialized transport equipment. CitizenShipper allows customers to review driver profiles, vehicle information, customer feedback, and ratings before booking. Drivers can build a reputation through completed deliveries and positive reviews, helping customers feel confident that their shipment will be transported safely and professionally.What are the requirements to become a courier driver?
How much do courier drivers make?
What types of deliveries can courier drivers transport?
Do I need a special vehicle to work as a courier driver?
Why do customers choose courier drivers through CitizenShipper?
Patrick MacFarland has been a teacher, a candidate for public office, and a local tour guide. But now he dedicates his time writing full-time, currently at CitizenShipper and VeraContent.
I am interested in learning more about these jobs.
I want to make extra cash on the weekend I have a suburban money is what I want so let’s work
I am very interested in becoming a courier. Please contact back with more information.
I’m lookin for a driving job with my class E drivers license
Hello
I am very interested in doing local moves in the Chicagoland area. I have a cargo van and a suv.
Thank you.
Interested in signing up for some courier work any citizenshippers help would be thankfull
I want to know more about this courier job? So far I am interested. Where can I get more information and how do I get started?
Hi , I am interested in a job as a driver, I would like to know more about , what the driver needs , I do know a car. But the type of car or the year of the the car, how does one get paid in this. So there is no how does one set up to pay their taxes. These are things I would like to know.
Am interested in doing courier work but I’m not sure if my area has much demand. I live near Asheville, NC. I currently work on call evenings as a Registered Nurse and would like to make a few extra dollars during the day.