If you’re interested in working as a delivery driver, the best courier companies offer reliable jobs, competitive pay, and growth opportunities. Over the past few years, the courier industry has expanded, driven in part by the surge in eCommerce and delivery services.
Keep reading for a look at some of the top courier companies to drive for, updated to reflect the latest industry trends.
Quicklook: Best couriers to drive for
- Best for new drivers: UPS
- Best for experienced drivers: FedEx
- Best for owner-operators: Purolator
- Best for independent contractors: OnTrac
- Best for CDL drivers with special certifications: TFI International
What is a courier company?
A courier company collects and delivers packages, documents, and freight as quickly as possible. The concept of courier companies has been around in the U.S. since the early 1900s, when what became UPS was called the American Messenger Company.
Services have evolved over the years to offer features like same-day and next-day delivery, live tracking, and contactless pickup. Courier companies like UPS and FedEx use a hub-and-spoke distribution model to streamline deliveries across the globe.
How does a courier company work?
Courier companies operate by receiving goods from senders and transporting them to recipients. Many large companies, like FedEx and UPS, also offer a wide range of freight and supply chain logistics services to businesses, providing customized delivery options.
Couriers take everything from a single package from an individual to bulk shipping contracts with major companies. There are also carrier companies that specialize in large or unusual shipments.
Courier companies vs. delivery companies
Courier companies focus on direct, one-stop deliveries, while package delivery companies may make multiple stops along a last-mile route. A courier delivery service is typically faster and more specialized, catering to specific client needs.
5 best courier service companies
UPS
United Parcel Service (UPS) continues to be the largest and one of the most respected courier companies globally, with over $100 billion in revenue in 2023. UPS remains a top choice for drivers, particularly those seeking stable employment, growth opportunities, and attractive benefits.
Best for: New and part-time drivers
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Average salary: After gaining seniority, UPS drivers potentially can reach $95,000+ per year with overtime and benefits.
Qualifications:
- Valid driver’s license
- Ability to handle packages weighing up to 35 pounds regularly
- Strong customer interaction skills
- Capability to operate manual transmission vehicles
Benefits:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance (including for part-time workers)
- PTO and generous salary increases
- Pension and 401(k) plans
- High job security
Disadvantages:
- Long hours, especially during peak seasons
- Physically demanding, with heavy lifting required regularly
FedEx
As a pioneer in express delivery and logistics services, FedEx offers its employees excellent benefits, a strong work environment, and opportunities for advancement. FedEx has been recognized for its company culture and was listed on Fortune Magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” as recently as 2022.
Best for: Experienced drivers
Location: Memphis, Tennessee
Average salary: Experienced drivers earn around $65,000-$85,000 annually, plus benefits.
Qualifications:
- Professional driving experience within the last three years
- Clean driving record and a valid driver’s license
- Must pass DOT physical and background checks
Benefits:
- Comprehensive health benefits
- Tuition assistance
- Paid time off and maternity/paternity leave
- Personal shipping discounts for employees
Disadvantages:
- Pay can be lower than competitors like UPS
- Some employees report that company processes can be bureaucratic and slow
Purolator
As Canada’s leading courier service, Purolator has solidified itself as a trusted name in logistics. Purolator continues to expand its presence in North America, providing owner operators and drivers a good mix of autonomy and company-backed resources.
Best for: Owner operators and Canadian drivers
Location: Ontario, Canada
Average salary:
- $26 per hour
- $55,000 annually (plus benefits)
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid driver’s license; owner operators can apply as well
Benefits:
- Employer-funded health savings accounts
- Generous PTO and paid holidays
- 401(k) with employer match
Disadvantages:
- Reports of favoritism or workplace politics
- Union support is sometimes inconsistent, depending on the region
OnTrac
OnTrac, known for its personalized delivery services, is growing rapidly in the Western U.S.. OnTrac caters to small businesses, schools, and essential service providers with competitive delivery solutions. It remains a strong choice for independent contractors looking for flexible work schedules.
Best for: Independent contractors
Location: Chandler, Arizona
Average salary:
- $22 to $25 per hour
- $45,000 to $50,000 annually (flexible schedules)
Qualifications:
- Valid driver’s license
- DOT compliance for linehaul services
Benefits:
- Flexible work hours and routes
- Paid time off
- Lower entry requirements for owner operators
Disadvantages:
- As an independent contractor, you’re responsible for your own taxes and expenses
- Lower salary compared to some larger companies
TFI International
Operating across Canada and the U.S., TFI International has built a strong reputation in the logistics industry. With a large fleet of over 12,000 trucks, they cater to both full-truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments. TFI is ideal for certified CDL drivers, particularly those with specialized endorsements.
Best for: CDL A certified drivers
Location: Montreal, Canada
Average salary:
- $24 per hour
- $50,000 annually (plus benefits)
Qualifications:
- CDL A license with endorsements for hazmat, twin trailer, and tanker
- Must pass a DOT physical and background check
Benefits:
- 401(k) pension plan with company match
- Paid sick leave
- Health and dental coverage
Disadvantages:
- Some employees report a lack of advancement opportunities
- Pay can fluctuate based on workload and hours
4 factors to consider when choosing a courier services job
If you’re considering a career with a courier company, here are some important factors:
- Salary and bonuses: Pay rates can vary significantly depending on the company and region. Make sure to look for companies offering competitive pay and incentives.
- Delivery speed: Consider the company’s track record for on-time deliveries, as this directly impacts customer satisfaction and your experience as a driver.
- Proof of delivery: Proof of delivery options help protect drivers from disputes and ensure customers feel confident in the delivery process.
- Insurance coverage: Look for companies that offer robust insurance, including coverage for packages and employee liability.
Enjoy stability and growth at the top courier companies
All of the top courier companies offer excellent base salaries with opportunities for growth. Look for base salary and benefits, as well as company pricing, insurance, proof of delivery, and delivery speeds to choose the best courier company to work for.
FAQ
UPS remains the largest and most popular courier company worldwide, handling billions of shipments each year.
For lightweight packages, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is often the most affordable option. For heavier items, UPS and FedEx provide competitive rates, but ultimately the ‘cheapest’ depends on the size and weight of the shipment.
Yes, DHL is known for reliable international shipping and environmental sustainability efforts, although its domestic service within the U.S. is limited.
FedEx Express couriers typically earn among the highest salaries in the delivery industry, with experienced drivers earning around $65,000-$85,000 annually plus benefits. UPS drivers can earn similar or slightly higher wages after gaining seniority, potentially reaching $95,000+ per year with overtime and benefits.
