subject: Holiday Stress Tips For The Courier Driver [print this page] The holidays are a mixed blessing for the courier driver. On one hand, the sheer volume of holiday deliveries that need to be made translates to a dramatic rise in work, which is a happy problem in this economy. On the other hand, the holidays are stressful for everyone, including the courier driver. Last-minute rush deliveries from last-minute shoppers, frantic clients who want their deliveries now, unpredictable weather, and revellers driving erratically on the road are only some of the things that add stress to an already-challenging job. However, by using a few simple techniques, you can minimise the effects of holiday stress.
Have a plan
With the increase in deliveries, you may often be assigned several deliveries in the same area. By taking a few minutes to organise your itinerary in order to make sure you maximise each trip, you can do your deliveries more efficiently. This translates to more deliveries with less time and fuel costs, as well as minimising the number of trips you have to make and your time on the road per load.
Stretch
Chances are, as a courier driver, you will be spending a great deal of time in your vehicle navigating the roads. Sitting still in for long periods, especially if your car has manual transmission, can lead to an aching back and knees, which can aggravate stress. To prevent such pains, which can affect your driving and lead to more severe health problems, do stretching exercises before you begin and regularly throughout your day. Stretching can help you centre yourself to keep your mind clear and alert, and helps keep your blood flowing, decompress your spine, and keep you limber. Breathing exercises can also help counteract the effects of being cooped inside your vehicle all day.
Be safe
Because you spend most of they time on the road, you have to be very aware of road and vehicle safety as a courier driver. You must be even more vigilant during the holidays, when there are more people on the road, roads can be icy and slippery, weather can be unpredictable, and other drivers may have indulged in too much holiday spirit. At this time, knowing you are being as safe as possible greatly reduce your stress. Keep warm and alert; be sure your phone and communications systems are working properly; have your vehicle checked to make sure it is running in top condition; make sure your spare tyre is good to go and your battery has a full charge; make sure your anti-freeze levels are optimal, and invest in snow tires and chains in case of icy roads; and, finally, make sure you have an emergency kit in case you need it.
