How to Be Package Delivery Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 30, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

When a package delivery technician is on the job, they have an important role to play in the process of delivering goods. When they arrive on time, it can cause a positive ripple effect throughout the entire delivery chain. If the technician is able to make their deliveries on time and with the right packages, it can lead to a satisfied customer and repeat business.

On the other hand, if they are late or fail to deliver the right packages, it can cause delays and lead to frustrated customers who may not use the delivery service again. the success of any package delivery service is largely dependent on the timely and accurate execution of the package delivery technician.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Most employers require package delivery technicians to have a high school diploma or GED.
Obtain a driver's license. Package delivery technicians must have a valid driver's license to operate delivery vehicles.
Complete on-the-job training. Package delivery technicians receive hands-on training from their employer on the use of delivery equipment and protocols.
Become familiar with the delivery area. Package delivery technicians must be familiar with the area in which they are delivering packages to ensure efficient and safe delivery.
Develop customer service skills. Package delivery technicians interact with customers regularly and must be comfortable providing courteous and efficient customer service.
Obtain certification. Package delivery technicians may need to obtain certification from the Department of Transportation to drive certain types of vehicles, such as a box truck.

Becoming a package delivery technician requires a high level of skill and qualification. First, it is important to have a valid drivers license in order to be able to operate the necessary vehicles. In addition, customer service skills are essential for the job, as it is important to be able to interact with customers in a courteous and professional manner.

Practical skills such as basic mathematics and problem-solving are also needed in order to calculate delivery charges and solve any issues that may arise. Furthermore, it is important to have good organizational skills in order to ensure packages are delivered in a timely and efficient manner. Finally, physical fitness is also necessary, as the job requires lifting and carrying heavy items for extended periods of time.

With all of these skills and qualifications, one can become a successful package delivery technician.

You may want to check Courier Delivery Technician, Package Delivery Worker, and Grocery Delivery Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Greet customers in a friendly and professional manner.
Receive packages from customers and verify contents.
Load, transport, and deliver items to customer destinations in a safe and timely manner.
Provide exceptional customer service by answering questions and addressing complaints.
Collect payments from customers for packages delivered.
Maintain a log of deliveries and pickups.
Inspect vehicles for mechanical safety issues and maintain cleanliness.
Follow all applicable laws and safety regulations while on the road.
Follow all company policies and procedures when delivering packages.
Complete daily paperwork including delivery records, customer invoices, and log books.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Strong time management and organizational skills
Excellent customer service skills
Ability to lift, carry, and move heavy packages
Proficiency in using delivery tracking software
Knowledge of local roads and streets
Ability to follow directions accurately
Ability to troubleshoot technical problems
Good communication skills
Attention to detail
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Time management is an essential skill for any Package Delivery Technician. Without the ability to plan and manage their time effectively, the technician may be unable to meet the demands of their job. Not only will the technician be expected to deliver packages in a timely manner, they must also keep accurate records and be mindful of safety protocols.

Poor time management can lead to missed deadlines, incomplete deliveries, and even potential harm to themselves or their customers. By using effective time management strategies, such as creating a daily plan and breaking down tasks into smaller chunks, the Package Delivery Technician can ensure that their deliveries are completed on time and safely.

Grocery Delivery Driver, Food Delivery Supervisor, and Courier Delivery Manager are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in package delivery?
What challenges have you faced while delivering packages?
What methods do you use to ensure the safety of packages while in transit?
How do you handle customer complaints or issues that arise during deliveries?
How do you stay organized and manage multiple tasks when delivering packages?
What precautions do you take when making deliveries in inclement weather?
How would you handle a situation in which a package is too large to fit in the vehicle?
What measures do you take to ensure packages are delivered on time?
What do you think are the most important qualities for a successful package delivery technician?
How do you stay up to date on changes in delivery regulations and procedures?

Common Tools in Industry

Handtruck. A two-wheeled cart used to transport packages. (eg: Amazon Delivery Driver's Handtruck)
Vehicle. A motorized vehicle used to transport packages. (eg: UPS Delivery Truck)
Barcode Scanner. A device used to scan barcodes on packages. (eg: FedEx handheld scanner)
Computer/Tablet. An electronic device used to access online delivery systems. (eg: Smartphone with delivery app)
Protective Clothing/Gear. Clothing and/or equipment used to protect the package delivery technician while on duty. (eg: Safety vest, hard hat, safety goggles, gloves)
Package Tracking Software. Software used to track and route packages. (eg: UPS My Choice, FedEx Delivery Manager)
Communication Device. A device used for communication purposes, such as a two-way radio or cell phone. (eg: Walkie-talkie for communicating with dispatch)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Association of Professional Drivers (NAPD)
American Trucking Associations (ATA)
International Parcel Delivery Association (IPDA)
Package Delivery Network (PDN)
National Private Truck Council (NPTC)
National Courier Association (NCA)
National Association of Small Package Delivery Services (NASPDS)
Express Delivery and Logistics Association (EDLA)
International Delivery Drivers Association (IDDA)
United Parcel Service Driver Alliance (UPSDA)

We also have Delivery Manager, Medical Supply Delivery Manager, and Grocery Delivery Supervisor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Shipping. The process of transporting goods from one place to another, usually via air, land or sea.
Courier Service. A professional service that specializes in the transportation of goods or documents from one location to another.
Logistics. The process of planning, implementing and controlling the efficient and effective flow of goods, services and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption.
Package Handler. An individual who is responsible for receiving, sorting, loading and unloading packages that are to be delivered.
Delivery Vehicle. A vehicle used for delivering packages and items to their destination.
Delivery Route. A predetermined route a package delivery technician takes when delivering packages to their destination.
Dispatching. The process of assigning tasks or jobs to workers or delivery vehicles for the purpose of completing a delivery.
Tracking System. A system used to monitor the progress of packages from the point of origin to their destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical salary of a Package Delivery Technician?

The median annual salary for Package Delivery Technicians is approximately $30,000.

What qualifications are needed to become a Package Delivery Technician?

Package Delivery Technicians typically need a valid drivers license and a clean driving record. In some cases, a commercial drivers license may be required.

What type of tasks do Package Delivery Technicians perform?

Package Delivery Technicians are responsible for delivering and picking up packages from residential and commercial customers. They may also be responsible for loading and unloading packages, sorting packages according to delivery routes, providing customer service, and handling payments.

How long does it typically take to become a Package Delivery Technician?

Most Package Delivery Technicians require no formal education or training, so individuals can typically become certified in as little as a few weeks.

Does a Package Delivery Technician need to be able to lift heavy items?

Yes, Package Delivery Technicians often need to lift items that weigh up to 50 pounds, so physical strength and endurance are important skills for this position.