How to Be Mail Delivery Driver - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 21, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The increasing number of online shoppers has had a direct effect on mail delivery drivers. With more people buying items from the comfort of their own homes, there is a greater demand for the delivery services of postal workers. This has resulted in an increase in the number of mail delivery drivers needed to meet the growing demand for deliveries.

As a result, mail delivery drivers have seen an increase in job opportunities, higher wages, and better working conditions. The improved outlook for mail delivery drivers is also beneficial to the wider economy, as it contributes to increased consumer spending and job creation.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a valid driver's license. Most states require drivers to have a valid driver's license to drive a commercial vehicle.
Pass an initial driver's exam. In order to become a mail delivery driver, you must pass an initial driver's exam administered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). This exam is designed to test your knowledge of driving laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
Complete an on-the-job training program. After passing the initial exam, you must complete an on-the-job training program. This program will teach you the specifics of mail delivery, such as how to load and unload mail from the truck, how to safely navigate routes, and how to deal with customer inquiries.
Complete a background check. The USPS requires all mail delivery drivers to complete a background check prior to being hired. This check will include a criminal record check, a credit report, and a drug test.
Obtain a commercial vehicle. In order to become a mail delivery driver, you must have access to a commercial vehicle. The USPS provides vehicles for its drivers, but you may need to purchase or rent your own if you plan to drive for a private company.
Get certified. Most states require mail delivery drivers to be certified in order to operate commercial vehicles. You must pass a written exam and driving test in order to become certified.
Maintain your vehicle. Once you are hired as a mail delivery driver, it is important that you keep up with vehicle maintenance and safety inspections. This will ensure that your vehicle is in good working condition at all times.

If you want to be a reliable and competent mail delivery driver, it is important to be organized, punctual, and safety conscious. Being organized will help you to manage the time spent on each route while ensuring that all packages are delivered in a timely manner. Punctuality is key in this job, as it shows your commitment to getting packages to their destinations on schedule.

it is critical to always take safety precautions while on the job, such as wearing a reflective vest and following all traffic laws. By being organized, punctual, and safety conscious, mail delivery drivers can ensure that their packages are delivered quickly and safely.

You may want to check Mailroom Supervisor, Night Mail Sorter, and Postal Services Manager for alternative.

Job Description

Ensure timely and accurate delivery of mail and packages to customers
Load mail, packages and other materials onto delivery vehicle
Collect and verify signatures for packages and items requiring proof of delivery
Sort mail and packages for route delivery
Scan packages and mark appropriate codes for tracking
Prepare reports and maintain records of deliveries
Maintain cleanliness of delivery vehicle and adhere to safety regulations
Assist customers with inquiries, problems or requests
Contact customer service or supervisor in the event of delays or other problems
Deliver mail in all weather conditions

Skills and Competencies to Have

Good customer service skills
Ability to lift and carry heavy packages
Good knowledge of geographical area
Good time management and organizational skills
Ability to read maps and follow directions
Ability to work in all weather conditions
Excellent driving skills and safe driving record
Familiarity with postal regulations and procedures
Knowledge of postal software and delivery equipment
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Time management is an essential skill for mail delivery drivers. Being able to efficiently plan routes, schedule drop-offs and pickups, and complete deliveries on time is paramount to success in the role. Failure to do so can result in missed deadlines, unhappy customers, and potential fines for late deliveries.

Furthermore, effective communication is also a must for mail delivery drivers. They must be able to communicate with customers, supervisors, and other drivers in order to ensure that all packages are delivered correctly and on time. By honing these two skills of time management and communication, mail delivery drivers can ensure they are providing the highest level of service and upholding their professional responsibilities.

Mail Room Technician, Postal Clerk Supervisor, and Delivery Person are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have driving a mail delivery truck?
How would you handle challenging weather conditions while driving a mail delivery truck?
What safety procedures do you follow when delivering mail?
How would you handle a difficult situation if a customer were to become hostile during a delivery?
How do you ensure that you are following all applicable traffic laws while driving a mail delivery truck?
What measures do you take to ensure the accuracy of the mail delivery route?
Are you familiar with the safety regulations for loading and unloading a mail delivery truck?
How do you stay organized while delivering mail on a route?
Describe a time when you overcame a difficult obstacle while delivering mail.
What methods do you use to maintain the cleanliness and orderliness of the mail delivery truck?

Common Tools in Industry

GPS Tracking Device. Tracks the location of delivery vehicles in real-time (e. g. Garmin GPS).
Barcode Scanner. Reads barcoded labels to ensure accurate delivery (e. g. Honeywell Voyager).
Mail Sorter. Automatically sorts mail into designated bins for efficient delivery (e. g. Neopost SI-30).
Delivery Bag. Secures mail for delivery and organizes packages for easy access (e. g. Stanley Adventure).
Delivery Vehicle. Vehicle used to transport mail from one location to another (e. g. Ford Transit Van).
Smartphone. Used to access delivery instructions, contact customers, and digitally record proof of delivery (e. g. iPhone 11 Pro).
Printer. Prints labels, invoices, and other documents needed during the delivery process (e. g. HP LaserJet Pro M404n).
Tablet. Used to access delivery apps, track orders, and digitally record proof of delivery (e. g. iPad Pro).
ID Badge. Used to identify delivery driver and gain access to secure areas (e. g. HID Global Prox Card).
Safety Gear. Protective gear used to stay safe while on the job (e. g. high visibility vest).

Professional Organizations to Know

National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC)
American Postal Workers Union (APWU)
National Rural Letter Carriers Association (NRLCA)
National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU)
International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT)
United Motorcoach Association (UMA)
United States Postal Service (USPS)
National Postal Transportation Association (NPTA)
National Private Truck Council (NPTC)
National Automobile Transporters Association (NATA)

We also have Letter Carrier, Mail Services Coordinator, and Part-Time Mail Carrier jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Delivery Vehicle. A motorized vehicle used for delivering goods, such as a van, truck, or car.
Route. A predetermined path that a mail delivery driver follows when delivering mail.
Postal Regulations. Rules and regulations set forth by the United States Postal Service that govern the activities of mail delivery drivers.
Postal Code. A code used to identify a specific geographical area for the purpose of delivering mail.
Postal Scales. Devices used for weighing mail and parcels in order to determine postage costs.
Security Procedures. Measures taken to ensure the safe handling of mail, such as verifying identification and scanning parcels for prohibited items.
Safety Practices. Practices and protocols that a mail delivery driver must follow in order to ensure their own safety while on the job. This includes wearing a safety vest, avoiding distractions, and following traffic laws.
Customer Service. Interacting with customers in a courteous and professional manner in order to ensure satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical hours of a Mail Delivery Driver?

Depending on the employer, Mail Delivery Drivers typically work part-time hours between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., with an average of 25-30 hours per week.

What is the average salary for a Mail Delivery Driver?

The average salary for a Mail Delivery Driver in the United States is about $38,000 per year.

What qualifications do I need to become a Mail Delivery Driver?

To become a Mail Delivery Driver, you typically need a valid driver's license and a clean driving record. You may also need to pass a background check and drug test.

What are the duties of a Mail Delivery Driver?

The duties of a Mail Delivery Driver include picking up, sorting, and delivering mail, packages, and other items to businesses and homes. They may also provide customer service and answer questions about mail delivery services.

What type of vehicle does a Mail Delivery Driver use?

Mail Delivery Drivers typically use a van or truck to transport their mail, packages, and other items. They may also use a bicycle or cart if they are delivering in a smaller area.

Web Resources

Mail & Delivery Services | Harvard Mail & Print www.hums.harvard.edu
Mail Delivery Service | Campus Mail | SIU campusmail.siu.edu
Mail Services | University Procurement and Logistics | Michigan State upl.msu.edu