Onboard Couriers are the frontline of our OBC industry, the ones who ensure that goods move efficiently from point A to point B. But behind every successful delivery is a professional navigating a range of challenges that often go unnoticed.

We recently conducted a survey to better understand what’s really impacting onboard couriers on the ground. The results were clear and consistent. Here are the top three concerns they raised, and why they matter for everyone in our logistics chain.

1. Low or Inconsistent Pay Rates

Onboard Couriers consistently reported that current pay structures don’t reflect the urgency, responsibility, or complexity of their work. Many feel underpaid for the level of service they’re expected to deliver, especially when dealing with last-minute jobs, long distances, or high-value shipments.

Why this matters: Fair compensation isn’t just about morale, it’s about performance and retention. When onboard couriers are paid appropriately, they’re more likely to stay engaged, deliver reliably, and represent your brand professionally. Underpaying leads to high turnover, lower service quality, and ultimately, dissatisfied customers.


2. Lack of Transparency

Another major issue is the lack of clear, timely information. Onboard couriers often find themselves in the dark about shipment details, client expectations, or changes to the delivery plan. This creates confusion, delays, and unnecessary stress.

Why this matters: Transparency is a key driver of efficiency. When onboard couriers have access to accurate, up-to-date information, they can plan better, avoid costly mistakes, and deliver a smoother experience for clients. It also builds trust, something that’s essential in a fast-moving, high-stakes environment.


3. Payment Delays

Perhaps the most frustrating concern: delayed payments. Many onboard couriers reported waiting weeks, sometimes months, to receive payment for completed jobs. For independent contractors, this can create serious financial strain.

Why this matters: Timely payments are a basic expectation in any professional relationship. Delays not only damage trust but also make it harder for onboard couriers to manage their own operations. If you want to build long-term partnerships with reliable couriers, paying on time is non-negotiable.


💡 What Can We Learn?

These concerns aren’t just complaints, they’re insights into how the Onboard Courier industry can improve. Whether you’re a broker, freight forwarder, or platform operator, here are three clear takeaways:

  • Re-evaluate your pay structures to ensure they reflect the true value of courier work.
  • Invest in better communication tools to keep couriers informed and aligned.
  • Streamline your payment processes to ensure fast, reliable compensation.

By addressing these issues, we don’t just improve onboard courier satisfaction, we strengthen the entire OBC ecosystem.


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *