Applying for a new job can feel like a lot of effort, especially if you have not done it for a while. You might be wondering what forms you need to fill in, what checks there are, how long it all takes and whether you will be good enough. The truth is that applying for a delivery driver job is much simpler than most people expect.
This guide walks you through the whole process, from spotting a vacancy to your first shift. It is based on how we recruit at Skilled Solutions, where we place multi-drop drivers with major carriers such as Amazon Logistics and DPD across Essex, London, Kent and West Sussex. Most of it will also apply to other driving jobs, so it is worth a read wherever you plan to apply.
Before you apply: check you meet the basics
Save yourself time by making sure you meet the core requirements before you start. For our multi-drop delivery driver roles, you need to:
- Have held a full UK or EU driving licence for at least one year.
- Be happy to complete a DBS background check.
- Have a smartphone you can use for the delivery app.
- Be available to work four to six days a week, including at least one weekend day.
You do not need any previous delivery experience. We train new drivers and cover the cost, so if you are reliable and motivated, you already have what matters most.
It is also a good idea to have a few things ready before you begin. Keep your driving licence to hand so you can check the dates and categories. Think about which days you can work and how far you are happy to travel to a delivery station. If you have a CV, dust it off. If you do not, that is fine, but it is worth putting one together, as it helps later on.
Step 1: Find a live vacancy near you
Start by looking at roles that are close to where you live. Early starts are much easier when the delivery station is a short drive away, and a shorter commute also saves on fuel.
Skilled Solutions is currently hiring multi-drop delivery drivers in:
- Barking, Essex, advertised from £184.75
- Bow, East London, advertised from £204.25
- Maidstone, Kent, advertised from £184.75
- Basildon, Essex, advertised from £184.75
Each job page gives you the key details about the role, including the type of work, the requirements and a quick way to apply. For example, if you live in east London or the Essex borders, have a look at our delivery driver role in Barking.
If none of these locations suit you, do not give up. We cover towns right across Essex, London, Kent and West Sussex, and new routes open regularly. You can still register your interest, and our team will let you know when something comes up nearby.
Step 2: Complete the online form
Our application form takes just a few minutes. You will be asked for simple details such as:
- Your name and contact details.
- Your location and the areas you can cover.
- Your driving licence details and how long you have held it.
- Any driving or delivery experience you have.
Take a moment to double-check your phone number and email address before you submit. It sounds obvious, but it is one of the most common reasons we cannot get hold of a good applicant. Use an email address you actually check, and make sure your voicemail is set up in case you miss our call.
Step 3: Answer a few screening questions
After the form, you will be asked a few short screening questions. These help us understand whether the role is a good match for you, and whether there is a better location or shift pattern we could offer.
Screening questions usually cover things like:
- Whether you have held your licence for at least a year.
- How many penalty points you have, if any.
- Which days of the week you can work.
- Whether you are comfortable with a DBS check.
- Whether you need help with van rental.
There are no trick questions here. Just answer honestly. If something in your background worries you, such as a few points on your licence, mention it. It is far better for us to know up front, and it may not stop you from getting the job.
Step 4: Our team gets in touch
Once your details are in, a member of our recruitment team will contact you, usually by phone, WhatsApp or email. This is a friendly first chat rather than a formal interview. We will talk through:
- The location and route type you are interested in.
- How many days you want to work.
- What the job involves on a normal day.
- Any questions you have about pay, vans or training.
This is a great chance to ask anything you are unsure about. Our frequently asked questions page also covers the most common queries, such as working days, requirements and whether you need experience, so it is worth reading before the call.
Step 5: Book and attend your interview
If the role is a good match, we will book you in for an interview so you can meet the team. Interviews for delivery driver jobs are usually relaxed and practical. We want to get to know you, understand your availability and make sure you know what the job involves.
You can expect questions about your driving experience, your reliability, how you handle pressure and how you would deal with common situations on a route, such as a customer not being home. You do not need to prepare a speech, but thinking about a few examples beforehand will help you feel more confident.
Bring your driving licence and any documents we have asked for. Dress neatly and comfortably, arrive a few minutes early and have your phone switched to silent.
Step 6: Background and licence checks
Delivery drivers handle other people’s property and visit homes and businesses every day. Because of this, carriers ask for a DBS background check before you start.
A basic DBS check shows any unspent criminal convictions or conditional cautions. It is quick and straightforward, and GOV.UK explains how to request a basic DBS check if you want to understand what is involved. We will guide you through exactly what you need to do as part of your onboarding.
We will also check your driving licence to confirm your categories and any points. Make sure the address on your licence is up to date, as an out-of-date address can slow things down.
Step 7: Training and onboarding
Once your checks are complete, you will move on to training. Training for multi-drop work focuses on the practical things you need to do the job well:
- How to use the delivery app for navigation and recording drops.
- How the delivery station works, including collection and returns.
- How to load your van so parcels are easy to find.
- Safe handling of parcels and safe driving around busy streets.
- What to do when a customer is not home or an address is hard to find.
At Skilled Solutions we cover the cost of training, so there is nothing to pay to get started. If you need a van, we can also help you secure a rental, which removes one of the biggest hurdles for new drivers.
Step 8: Your first shift
Your first day on the road is exciting, and it is normal to feel a bit nervous. You will arrive at the delivery station, collect your parcels, load up and head out on your route. Routes are around nine hours, and the app will guide you from one stop to the next.
Do not worry if you are slower than experienced drivers at first. Everyone is. Speed comes from knowing your route, loading well and getting used to the app. Within a few weeks most drivers feel much more comfortable.
How long does the process take?
Every application is different, but the process can move quickly. The main things that affect timing are how fast you respond to our messages, how quickly your background check comes back and whether there is an opening at your chosen location.
You can speed things up by:
- Answering calls and messages promptly.
- Having your licence and documents ready.
- Being flexible about start dates or locations if you can.
- Replying straight away if we ask for any extra information.
Common application mistakes to avoid
We see a few small mistakes again and again. Avoiding them will give you a much better chance of success.
Wrong contact details. A typo in your phone number means we cannot reach you.
Not answering calls. Recruiters speak to a lot of people. If you miss a call, ring back the same day.
Overpromising availability. Only offer the days you know you can work. Reliability matters more than how many days you say yes to.
Hiding licence points. Be upfront. Honesty builds trust and saves problems later.
Missing the interview. If something comes up, let us know as early as you can so we can rearrange.
Tips for a strong application
A little preparation makes a big difference. Keep your CV short and clear, with your licence details near the top. Mention any work that shows you are dependable, whether that was in a warehouse, a shop, a kitchen or a care role. Show that you are comfortable with customers and technology. Above all, be positive and ready to learn.
Apply today with Skilled Solutions
If you are ready to start your journey as a multi-drop delivery driver, now is a great time to apply. We are currently recruiting in Barking, Bow, Maidstone and Basildon, with more opportunities across Essex, London, Kent and West Sussex.
Apply online in a few minutes, email your CV to recruitment@skso.co.uk, call or WhatsApp our team on 01268 203504, or send a message to our recruitment team through our contact form. We are available from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, and we are always happy to talk you through the process before you apply.
No experience is needed, training is covered and we can help with van rental. Send us your details today and let us help you get on the road.
