Amazon Flex offers delivery partners across the UK the opportunity to earn competitive rates while enjoying complete flexibility over their schedules. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about becoming an Amazon Flex delivery driver, including vehicle requirements, earnings potential, and the application process.
What is Amazon Flex?
Amazon Flex is Amazon’s gig economy delivery program that allows self-employed drivers to deliver Amazon packages using their own vehicles. Unlike traditional courier jobs, Amazon Flex operates on a “delivery block” system where drivers choose available time slots that fit their schedule, typically lasting 3-6 hours.
Who Can Deliver for Amazon Flex in the UK?
To become an Amazon Flex delivery partner, you must meet these essential requirements:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Hold a valid full UK driving licence
- Have the right to work in the UK
- Possess a valid UK National Insurance Number
- Own a smartphone (iPhone with iOS 13 or newer, or Android 6.0 or newer)
- Pass a background and criminal record check
- Have appropriate vehicle insurance covering commercial deliveries
Note that drivers with valid EU driving licences may also be eligible, though it’s advisable to check the latest post-Brexit regulations regarding whether you need to exchange it for a UK licence. Drivers withouth pre-settled and settled status might not be approved, but that depends on individual cases. Right to work certainly applies for all drivers.
Vehicle Requirements
Amazon Flex has specific vehicle standards that all delivery partners must meet.
Eligible Vehicles
Your vehicle must be:
- Mid-size car or larger – Must have a capacity of 5 seats or more
- 4-door configuration – Vehicles with fewer than 4 doors may not be accepted
- Van or enclosed pickup truck – Exempt from the 5-seat rule as they protect parcels from weather
- In good working condition – Must have a valid MOT certificate
- Weather protection – Must be able to protect parcels from the elements
Vehicles That Don’t Qualify
Amazon Flex does not accept:
- Compact cars with fewer than 5 seats (e.g., Toyota Aygo)
- 3-door vehicles (even if they have 5 seats)
- Vehicles in poor condition or without valid MOT
- Motorcycles, scooters, or bicycles
The policy specifies that even 5-seat compact cars may not qualify if they don’t meet the “mid-size or larger” requirement. Aim for vehicles like family saloons, estates, SUVs, or vans for the best chance of approval.
Insurance Requirements
Insurance is one of the most critical requirements for Amazon Flex delivery.
What Insurance You Need
To deliver for Amazon Flex, you must have:
- Standard motor insurance – Your regular vehicle insurance policy
- Hire and Reward insurance – Also called commercial courier insurance or Amazon Flex insurance
Hire and Reward insurance is essential because it covers you for carrying goods for payment, which is not included in standard private car insurance. This is a legal requirement and Amazon Flex will verify you have this coverage before approving your application.
Insurance Costs
While standard insurance varies, Hire and Reward coverage represents an additional expense you’ll need to factor into your earnings calculations. Many insurance providers now offer specific Amazon Flex insurance packages tailored for delivery drivers.
How Amazon Flex Delivery Blocks Work
Amazon Flex operates differently from traditional courier work through its delivery block system.
Understanding Delivery Blocks
- Duration – Typically 3-6 hours per block
- Flat rate payment – You’re paid the same amount regardless of how quickly you complete deliveries (as long as you finish within the block time)
- Self-scheduling – Choose blocks that fit your schedule through the Amazon Flex app
- Availability – New blocks can become available at any time, so regularly checking the app is recommended
Block Cancellation Rules
It’s important to manage your commitments responsibly:
- Cancel blocks at least 45 minutes before the start time to avoid penalties
- Missing blocks without cancellation affects your standing with Amazon Flex
- Repeated missed blocks could lead to deactivation from the service