What does a city courier, driver do? – Tasks and work environment
City couriers focused on driving are primarily responsible for transporting goods, parcels, and other items within urban areas and cities. Tasks include loading and unloading, route planning, and managing delivery documentation. The work often occurs at a fast pace with many stops throughout the day, requiring good local knowledge and the ability to interact professionally with customers. The work environment involves outdoor work and vehicle operation, leading to varying weather conditions and sometimes heavy lifting. Flexibility and a service-oriented attitude are essential qualities, as workdays can be unpredictable and require quick adjustments.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary for city couriers, drivers has shown a declining trend. In 2022, the average salary was 29,900 SEK, which decreased to 29 500 SEK in 2023 and further down to 28 200 SEK in 2024. The decrease amounts to approximately 5.7% over the period. This trend can be explained by an oversupply of labor within the profession, putting pressure on wages. Meanwhile, demand for courier services has stabilized after a period of increased e-commerce, which may also have contributed to the slowdown in wage growth. Despite the downward trend, the salary level remains stable compared to similar transport sector occupations.
City courier, driver salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 28 200 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 23,600 SEK/month (men), 25,400 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (men), 35,500 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage (average): 169 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 104% of what men do (men: 28 100 SEK, women: 29 100 SEK)
- Regional differences: Varies depending on labor market and demand
Education and qualifications
To work as a city courier, driver, usually no extensive formal education is required, but a B driver's license is mandatory. Many employers value prior experience in transportation or service roles. Some introductory training or internal onboarding is common, especially regarding handling specific vehicles or logistics systems. Enhancing your chances on the job market can be achieved by completing relevant courses or certifications in transport and logistics.
- B driver's license: Basic requirement for working as a driver
- Internship/training: Often includes introduction to work routines and safety
- Service experience: Previous work in logistics, transportation, or customer service is advantageous
- Professional certificates: Additional courses in safety, logistics, or vehicle knowledge can be beneficial
- Physical ability: Ability to handle heavy lifts and work under varying conditions
City couriers specializing in driving often develop a unique local knowledge and can become invaluable to companies needing quick, flexible deliveries in cities. The social contact with customers and recipients is an important part of the profession and can make workdays both varied and stimulating.
Common benefits and compensations
In the profession of city courier, driver, benefits such as compensation for unsociable hours, per diems for longer deliveries, and performance-based bonuses are common. Some employers also offer wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes access to public transportation cards or parking benefits. Retirement plans and insurance are typically included when employed under collective agreements.
Competitions and challenges
The labor market for city couriers and drivers is currently characterized by an oversupply of labor, meaning competition for available positions is high. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, demand will remain unchanged over the next five years, and job opportunities are limited. Challenges in the profession include monotonous tasks, time pressure, physically demanding work, and sometimes stressful traffic situations. Digitalization and automation may influence the profession in the long term, but personal service and local knowledge continue to be valuable competitive factors.
Tips for those who want to become a city courier, driver
To succeed as a city courier, driver, it’s good to combine punctuality and responsibility with a high level of service. Being precise with routes and deliveries reduces mistakes and helps keep customers satisfied. Good physical endurance is an advantage, especially since the work often involves heavy lifting and many stops. Flexibility and adaptability facilitate handling changing schedules or unexpected events during the day. Social skills and a friendly demeanor are appreciated by colleagues and customers, while the ability to manage stress helps maintain pace even under time pressure. Finally, it’s wise to stay updated on traffic safety and new digital tools in the transport sector.
Key facts about city couriers, drivers
- Average salary: 28 200 SEK/month
- Salary range: 23,600–36,300 SEK/month
- Gender differences: Women earn 104% of men's salary
- Education level: B driver's license, often no formal education beyond that
- Available jobs: 412 advertised positions within the profession
Career paths and future prospects
After a few years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as transportation coordinator or team leader within logistics. Some choose to further their education for larger vehicles and become truck drivers or distribution managers. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates that job opportunities within the profession are limited and the recruitment situation is characterized by oversupply. Over the next five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, which may keep competition high for available positions. Nonetheless, there is a continuous need for experienced and reliable drivers, particularly in regions with high turnover in logistics and distribution.
Frequently asked questions about city couriers, drivers
- What does a city courier, driver earn?
- The average salary for a city courier, driver is 28 200 SEK per month, with a range between 23,600 and 36,300 SEK depending on experience, employer, and region.
- What are the gender differences within the profession?
- Women earn on average 29 100 SEK while men earn 28 100 SEK, meaning women earn 104% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a city courier, driver?
- The basic requirement is a B driver's license, but no extensive formal education is typically needed. Intern training and experience from similar work are advantageous.
- What does the job market look like for city couriers, drivers?
- The Employment Service estimates that job opportunities are limited and there is a surplus of applicants, but there are still about 412 available jobs within the profession.
- What tasks are included in the role of a city courier, driver?
- The profession involves transporting goods, loading and unloading, route planning, customer contact, and document handling.
- Are there opportunities for further education and career development?
- Yes, you can pursue further training for larger vehicles, supervisory roles, or within logistics and distribution.
