A third-party carrier for packages, mail, and other goods is a delivery contractor. This is less expensive than using a package delivery service, and it eliminates the need for a company to maintain a fleet of delivery vehicles and personnel. Delivery contractors can work for themselves or for a courier service that provides services to customers on demand. They may be required to drive routes in a variety of conditions and to be able to handle large trucks and heavy loads.
Companies that sell appliances, mattresses, and furniture may provide delivery services to customers, but they do not want to keep delivery crews on staff because they are a significant business overhead expense. Instead, they can hire a delivery company and pay for services on a load-by-load basis. Depending on the nature of the contract, the contractor may have an agreement to provide same-day or next-day delivery on demand, and in some cases, can also install or assemble products.
A delivery contractor can also be used to send packages, including documents. This is a common method for same-day delivery in areas where materials must be transported quickly across a region. For example, an attorney might hire a delivery service to deliver documents to a courthouse or another law firm. Contractors can also deliver groceries and a wide range of other consumer goods. Many may cater to a wide range of customers, while others may specialize in specific areas, such as biomedical services such as sample transport.
People must usually provide their own delivery vans or trucks for this job, though if they work for a contracting company, these may be provided. Many people have insurance to protect themselves from claims of loss or theft. Delivery contractors begin the day by organizing their stops, and they may carry a phone with them so that they can make changes to the schedule as needed throughout the day to meet customer needs. A contracting firm can also use dispatch radios to contact personnel.
A delivery contractor can use a variety of payment schedules. Some may charge a flat rate, while others may charge based on distance traveled and may charge a premium for expedited services. If clients also want product assembly or installation, this is an additional cost, and not all contractors will provide this service. Depending on the nature of the contract, agency employees may be paid an hourly wage, a percentage, or a commission.