They may know all the best shortcuts but they’ll still go the extra mile! National Delivery Driver Week from September 15 to 21 was created by dlivrd Technology to recognize and show appreciation for the men and women who deliver your meals and packages to your door, no matter the time, weather, or traffic. Delivery drivers have become a part of our everyday lives and they put in the legwork (or driving work) so that you don’t have to. From busy parents who don’t have time to shop for groceries, hungry college students who need fuel while cramming for exams, and late-night snackers with sudden cravings to businesses that require larger catering orders and time-sensitive deliveries where professionalism matters, we all depend on their fast, reliable service.
Behind every delivery is a skilled driver managing orders, navigating traffic, and staying on schedule. They often deal with limited parking, unpredictable road conditions, and the pressure of tight time constraints. Additionally, many pay for fuel and vehicle upkeep out of their own pockets, and tips can vary from one delivery to the next. It’s a demanding role that requires sharp focus, time management, and adaptability. National Delivery Driver Week celebrates these unsung heroes who make a difference one delivery at a time.
History of National Delivery Driver Week
They always deliver—literally. Delivery drivers have long been the unsung heroes behind our favorite takeout meals, catered lunches, and last-minute packages that arrive on time. National Delivery Driver Week shines a spotlight on the people who make everyday logistics look effortless. This week doesn’t just celebrate the effort of the drivers, it recognizes their essential role in a world that depends on fast, reliable service.
Food delivery services, which can be traced back to 1768 in Korea, have drastically evolved over time. What started as hand-delivered meals to scholars and Italian royalty or home-cooked meal delivery systems in Mumbai, India, has transformed into a high-tech, app-driven industry connecting millions with their favorite foods quickly. Over time, delivery became faster and more efficient.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and lockdowns were put in place, the demand for essentials and food deliveries surged. Many restaurants adapted by joining delivery platforms and shifting to delivery-only models, while grocery apps saw record usage. Contactless service became widespread, and delivery drivers played a critical role in keeping businesses afloat and people fed. Many people also turned to delivery work for income, and the industry became a lifeline for both customers and workers. It marked a turning point in how society relied on delivery as part of everyday life.
Naturally, customer expectations rose too, and so did the bar for drivers. Today, delivery drivers need more than just a working vehicle and GPS. These professionals juggle route planning, traffic, time-sensitive deliveries, and the delicate art of keeping meals hot (or cold) and intact. They also manage customer interactions, problem-solve on the spot, and often work in challenging conditions. Delivery drivers have had to master many skills including, safe driving, timeliness, and stress management.
They play a key role in keeping daily life running smoothly by helping restaurants reach more customers, supporting busy families with meals on demand, and ensuring businesses and events receive important orders on time. Delivery drivers connect people and businesses with what they need when they need it.
National Delivery Driver Week was launched by dlivrd Technology to say thank you and recognize their hard work. Founded in 2018, dlivrd Technology is a last-mile omnichannel logistics and technology firm for restaurant catering, on-demand and same-day food, and small package delivery. Currently operating in 170+ U.S. and Canadian markets, their AI-driven technology ensures deliveries aren’t just fast but smart. They’ve partnered with restaurant chains like Dig and Freebirds, and use the services of independent, professional drivers who are empowered with the right tools and real-time support, and who specialize in catering and high-touch deliveries nationwide.
Join us this National Delivery Driver Week as we celebrate the champions of reliability and convenience. Whether you’re ordering a simple lunch for yourself or hosting a business event, greet your delivery driver with a smile, gratitude… and a generous tip.
National Delivery Driver Week timeline
The first known food delivery takes place in Korea during the Joseon Dynasty when naengmyeon (cold noodles) is delivered to a scholar’s home.
This service is established in Mumbai, India, and becomes one of the most successful food delivery systems.
Chef Raffaele Esposito delivers a custom pizza to Queen Margherita, the Queen of Italy.
A fish and chip shop in Edinburgh begins delivering fish suppers, chicken, and hamburgers by car around the city and uses stainless steel insulated pots to keep the food warm.
World Wide Waiter, known as Waiter.com today, is launched by two Stanford University Business School students in December and it pioneers the online food ordering concept.
Companies begin bringing restaurants together on one platform to make browsing and ordering food easier and the rise of smartphones leads to mobile apps that make ordering even more convenient.
dlivrd Technology, a last-mile omnichannel logistics and technology firm for restaurant catering, on-demand and same-day food and small package delivery, is founded.
The COVID-19 pandemic rapidly increases the demand for food delivery, leading to more restaurants joining delivery platforms, the widespread adoption of contactless service, and a long-term shift in customer habits.
dlivrd Technology establishes National Delivery Driver Week, September 15-21, to show appreciation for the men and women who deliver your meals and packages to your door.
National Delivery Driver Week FAQs
What makes delivery drivers essential?
They ensure food arrives hot, catering orders are on time, and businesses meet customer expectations. They handle logistics, routes, traffic, and timing, often with little room for error. In addition, delivery drivers are expected to set-up large catering orders. Without them, convenience, service speed, and customer satisfaction would suffer.
What are some challenges delivery drivers face daily?
Common issues include traffic delays, parking restrictions, difficult delivery locations, weather conditions, and tip inconsistencies. Many also pay for their own fuel and vehicle maintenance, which adds to the challenges of the job.
How do delivery drivers impact local communities?
Delivery drivers support local economies by helping small businesses reach more customers and ensuring food access for people who can’t always leave home. Their efforts help keep neighborhoods connected, fed, and thriving.
National Delivery Driver Week Activities
Tip generously
During National Delivery Driver Week, consider giving a generous tip—and with dlivrd Technology, 100% of tips go directly to the driver. Many delivery drivers rely on tips as a major part of their income and a big tip not only shows appreciation, it helps offset their gas and vehicle maintenance costs. It’s a wonderful, impactful way to say thank you.
Set up a snack station at your door or company
Delivery drivers are often on the go for hours and may not have time to stop for food or drinks. Set up a small table with water, energy drinks, granola bars, and other grab-and-go snacks. A quick snack or drink can go a long way to keep them energized and there's no doubt they'll appreciate the thoughtfulness.
Give them a shout-out on social media
Have you had a great delivery experience? Share it on your social media pages and personalize your message by thanking your delivery driver by name (with their permission, of course). Tag the delivery platform and use the hashtag #NationalDeliveryDriverWeek to expand your reach.
5 Key Delivery Driver Skills
Safe driving
Delivery drivers are masterful at staying alert, following traffic rules, and adapting to changing road conditions to keep themselves and others safe.
Route planning
Delivery drivers know how to factor in traffic, time of day, and road conditions to find the fastest, most fuel-efficient routes. This helps them save time and keep deliveries on schedule.
Geographical knowledge
They have a good knowledge of the neighborhoods, landmarks, and local streets, which allows them to navigate smoothly and adjust quickly to unexpected road closures or traffic jams.
Vehicle maintenance basics
Delivery drivers must stay on top of their vehicle maintenance to prevent breakdowns. They perform regular checks on tires, fluids, and brakes to keep their vehicles safe and reliable.
Stress management
Juggling tight deadlines and tricky situations requires them to effectively manage stress. Delivery drivers keep cool under pressure, make smart decisions, and maintain friendly service, and they make it look easy.
Why We Love National Delivery Driver Week
It shines a spotlight on the people behind the deliveries
Delivery drivers are more than just a car pulling up to your door. They’re real people juggling routes, schedules, and your extra fries, onion rings, and sauce requests. National Delivery Driver Week gives them the respect and appreciation they deserve.
It brings awareness to the job’s challenges
Drivers deal with traffic, tricky parking, unpredictable weather, sometimes low or no tips, and the occasional hangry customer. This week serves as a reminder that every delivery takes skill, patience, and a lot of hustle, and it encourages an empathetic response in the event that your next delivery is a little late because of an unavoidable setback.
It’s a chance to explore new delivery services
If you’ve been thinking about switching things up, now’s the perfect time to discover fresh ways to access your favorite meals. By exploring different options, you’ll be introduced to drivers and companies that prioritize care, efficiency, and quality service.
National Delivery Driver Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 15–21 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2026 | September 15–21 | Tuesday–Monday |
| 2027 | September 15–21 | Wednesday–Tuesday |
| 2028 | September 15–21 | Friday–Thursday |
| 2029 | September 15–21 | Saturday–Friday |
