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What a last-mile driver does
A last-mile driver carries out the final delivery step in the supply chain — moving parcels from a local depot or hub directly to homes and businesses. The role usually involves a dense route of many stops, with a strong focus on completing deliveries within the day’s window.
It combines efficient local driving with accurate handovers, proof of delivery and handling of returns. A last-mile driver is generally expected to hold a valid driving licence appropriate to the vehicle and jurisdiction and to drive safely within local rules.
Core responsibilities
- Loading and sorting parcels for the day’s route.
- Driving an efficient route across many delivery stops.
- Delivering parcels to the correct address on time.
- Capturing proof of delivery and handling failed deliveries.
- Managing returns and undelivered items back to the depot.
- Communicating with the depot about progress and issues.
Skills and qualities
- A valid driving licence appropriate to the vehicle and jurisdiction.
- Efficient local navigation and route management.
- Speed balanced with safe, careful driving.
- Accuracy in matching parcels to addresses.
- Physical fitness for frequent stops and lifting.
- A polite, reliable manner at the door.
Typical employers and settings
- Parcel networks and last-mile delivery companies.
- E-commerce and grocery fulfilment operations.
- Logistics and courier operators.
- Owner-driver and delivery-partner arrangements.
- Driver-supply and recruitment agencies.
How the role is recruited
- Roles are filled directly, through platforms or as delivery partners.
- Screening confirms the licence, driving record and right to work.
- Interviews are short and practical, with a focus on reliability.
- Engagement may be employed, agency or self-employed, set out in the terms.
- Onboarding covers the vehicle, handheld device, route and procedures.
Documents involved
- Proof of a valid driving licence and a clean record where required.
- An employment contract, agency assignment or delivery-partner terms.
- An offer letter or onboarding confirmation where employed.
- Vehicle and insurance documents where the driver uses their own vehicle.
- Right-to-work and identity checks as required.
- A safety induction and onboarding checklist.
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