What happens if my van breaks down on a DPD route?
Find out what happens when your van breaks down during a DPD round, how parcels are recovered, and what it means for your daily earnings.
Last checked 25/10/2026.
If your van breaks down while you are out on a DPD route, you must contact your depot or operations manager right away. You are responsible for your own vehicle maintenance and recovery, but the depot needs to know immediately so they can manage the undelivered parcels.
How DPD handles the situation generally depends on whether you are an owner driver franchisee or working for a subcontractor. Usually, another driver or a depot runner will be sent to meet you, transfer the remaining parcels out of your broken van, and finish the round so customers still get their items.
You will not get paid the full rate for parcels you fail to deliver because of a breakdown. If you use a leased van for DPD, check your lease agreement to see if it includes breakdown cover and a replacement vehicle. Having breakdown cover that includes roadside assistance and a replacement commercial vehicle is essential for parcel couriers.
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