Pick up and deliver messages, documents, packages, and other items between offices or departments within an establishment or directly to other business concerns, traveling by foot, bicycle, motorcycle, automobile, or public conveyance.
SOC: 43-5021.00
Common Job Titles
Courier
Driver
Laboratory Courier
Messenger
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate delivery vehicles and mechanized transportation equipment navigating urban and suburban routes while following traffic regulations and safety protocols.
Developing
Hands-onHandle packages, documents, and sensitive materials ensuring secure transport and maintaining item integrity during pickup and delivery.
Developing
KnowledgeOrganize delivery schedules and route priorities optimizing time management across multiple stops under time-sensitive constraints.
Developing
KnowledgeApply geographic knowledge and navigation systems using GPS devices and route mapping software to locate delivery destinations efficiently.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain delivery instructions and documentation requirements when communicating with clients, supervisors, and recipients to ensure accurate handoffs.
Developing
MindsetEngage with customers and business contacts maintaining professional interpersonal relationships while representing the organization.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate compliance verification and record-keeping procedures documenting signatures, timestamps, and delivery confirmations using handheld scanners and tablets.
Developing
KnowledgeIdentify security concerns and public safety hazards during route execution, responding appropriately to changing conditions and delivery environments.
Developing
MindsetRespect customer service standards and confidentiality protocols when handling sensitive documents and interacting with the public.
Developing
KnowledgeApply problem-solving techniques to delivery obstacles resolving access issues, scheduling conflicts, and route disruptions independently.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Couriers and Messengers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
71,920
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $29,880. 25th percentile: U.S. $35,130. 50th percentile: U.S. $38,340. 75th percentile: U.S. $44,630. 90th percentile: U.S. $50,590. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$29,880
10% of workers earn the following or more
$50,590
Workers on average earn
$40,060
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service3.8/5
Transportation3.8/5
English Language3.5/5
Public Safety and Security2.4/5
Administrative2.3/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
