If you are a courier driver then you will be well aware that the few weeks leading up to Christmas Day are possibly the busiest time of your year. This is potentially great from a financial perspective but it can be a tiring time behind the wheel of your delivery vehicle.

In this respect, make sure that you get plenty of sleep before starting your potentially long day. Also, whilst it may be easier said than done, endeavor to make sure that you take a few breaks during the day. If you are tired then you are more likely to be involved in a road traffic accident that is something you would prefer to avoid happening.

Before setting out, you may wish to consider that you have filled your delivery vehicle up with diesel or petrol thus hopefully avoiding having to stop off during the day to top up your fuel tank.

At very least make sure that you carry enough drinking water with you or perhaps a flask of tea or coffee plus take a sandwich or two with you and perhaps a chocolate bar. Better still, plan a break in your day to get out of your vehicle and have lunch in the likes of a burger bar or pub.

Is there anyone that could assist you with your deliveries such as a family member? Obviously, it will need to be cost effective but such help could mean that you can deliver more parcels and cover the potential additional cost of employing a temporary worker. If you do then make sure that you have adequate insurance cover.

Take extra care whilst driving as during the weeks leading up to Christmas you may encounter wintery weather such as snow and ice as well as some heavy rain showers and gusty winds. Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front bearing in mind that it may take you longer to stop if the roads are icy or wet. Has your delivery vehicle been serviced and are the tyres, lights and brakes etc all in good working order? After all, you really don’t want to break down at your busiest time of the year as this could have a negative impact upon your takings resulting in a difficult time for your own family.

It may only seem to be a small thing but why not wish your customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year when delivering his or her parcel. Who knows – they may even give you a small tip bearing in mind the time of year.