DPD Couriers to Lose Earnings Amid Delivery Payment Cuts
London, Tuesday, 7 October 2025.
DPD couriers face financial strain as payment cuts could slash income by up to £25 daily, affecting thousands of drivers and potentially disrupting logistics services.
Impact on DPD Couriers
The planned reduction in delivery payments by DPD, set to commence on January 5, 2026, is poised to significantly impact the financial stability of its couriers. The company announced a 65-pence cut per delivery, which is expected to cost drivers up to £25 per day. This measure could potentially lead to an annual income drop of £6,500 for many drivers [1][2].
Drivers’ Reactions and Industry Implications
In response to DPD’s payment cut announcement, around 1,500 couriers staged a work stoppage on October 3, 2025. This protest highlights the growing discontent among drivers, who argue that the cuts make it exceedingly difficult to cover essential living costs. Most DPD drivers are self-employed, aligning with the broader gig economy trend, which often lacks the security of benefits such as holiday and sick pay [1][3].
Company’s Stance and Broader Context
Despite the backlash, DPD management maintains that the payment adjustments reflect changes in their parcel traffic profile. The company has introduced new incentive payments for larger parcels, claiming that their remuneration package remains competitive within the industry. However, drivers argue that the frequency of larger parcels is insufficient to offset the loss from smaller deliveries, creating a precarious situation for their income [2][4].
Looking Ahead
The decision to defer the rate reduction until after the Christmas period suggests an acknowledgment of the potential disruption that such a change could cause during peak delivery times. As the logistics sector continues to grapple with increased competition and the growing reliance on online shopping, the implications of DPD’s payment cuts could reverberate throughout the industry, affecting service levels and operational costs [1][3][5].