Couriers and Messengers
Pick up and deliver messages, documents, packages, and other items between offices or departments within an establishment or directly to other business concerns, traveling by foot, bicycle, motorcycle, automobile, or public conveyance.
Common Job Titles
- Courier
- Driver
- Laboratory Courier
- Messenger
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate delivery vehicles and mechanized transportation equipment navigating urban and suburban routes while following traffic regulations and safety protocols.Developing
- Hands-onHandle packages, documents, and sensitive materials ensuring secure transport and maintaining item integrity during pickup and delivery.Developing
- KnowledgeOrganize delivery schedules and route priorities optimizing time management across multiple stops under time-sensitive constraints.Developing
- KnowledgeApply geographic knowledge and navigation systems using GPS devices and route mapping software to locate delivery destinations efficiently.Developing
- KnowledgeExplain delivery instructions and documentation requirements when communicating with clients, supervisors, and recipients to ensure accurate handoffs.Developing
- MindsetEngage with customers and business contacts maintaining professional interpersonal relationships while representing the organization.Developing
- KnowledgeDemonstrate compliance verification and record-keeping procedures documenting signatures, timestamps, and delivery confirmations using handheld scanners and tablets.Developing
- KnowledgeIdentify security concerns and public safety hazards during route execution, responding appropriately to changing conditions and delivery environments.Developing
- MindsetRespect customer service standards and confidentiality protocols when handling sensitive documents and interacting with the public.Developing
- KnowledgeApply problem-solving techniques to delivery obstacles resolving access issues, scheduling conflicts, and route disruptions independently.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Couriers and Messengers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
71,920
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $29,880. 25th percentile: U.S. $35,130. 50th percentile: U.S. $38,340. 75th percentile: U.S. $44,630. 90th percentile: U.S. $50,590. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $29,880 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $50,590 |
| Workers on average earn | $40,060 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service3.8/5
- Transportation3.8/5
- English Language3.5/5
- Public Safety and Security2.4/5
- Administrative2.3/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Route mapping software
Tools & Equipment
- Bank deposit bags
- Bicycles
- Computer data input scanners
- Copy machines
- Delivery trucks
- Document shredders
- Envelope sealers
- Global positioning system GPS devices