With logistics a part of his DNA, Paul Cockerham, a driver for Pall-Ex shareholder member Longs of Leeds, is yet to find something he dislikes about his role, six years on from joining the team.
We spoke to Paul to learn more about his career in logistics so far.
What made you choose a career in logistics?
“Logistics has always been a part of my life and has run in my family for years.
“For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a driver and it was the obvious choice of what to do when it came to my career choice.
“I spent 20 years working as a Tramper (long distance driver) and loved every minute of it, but the last six years working with Longs, making Pall-Ex deliveries and collections have been just as good too!”
What is it that you enjoy most about your role?
“I enjoy getting out and about and meeting different people every day.
“Being able to see such a wide range of customers on a daily basis means there is never a dull day or two that are the same.
“It is definitely better than a lot of other jobs where you don’t get meet other people much, so it’s a good choice if you are sociable like me.
“On top of this, the people I work with are fantastic. They are always up for a laugh but don’t let that get in the way of getting the job done. They are a great bunch!”
What does an average day look like for you?
“I normally start at 7 AM and then I’m done by between 5 and 6 PM.
“On an average day, I can make anywhere between 15-20 drops and it can be quite a physical moving the pallets off the back of the vehicle.
“I have noticed in recent years that other drivers and I are making more and more deliveries to home addresses as that side of the business grows.
“This causes a few challenges but most of the time, everything is fine and customers are happy their pallet has arrived.”
Is there anything that might surprise people about your job and what you do each day?
“Customers are usually surprised by how helpful I am.
“I always try to go the extra mile for them and make sure they are completely happy with their delivery before I leave.
“Where I can, as long as it is safe to do so, I will try and put the pallet where the customer needs it, to make their life easier.
“I have been told I am very polite too which is nice to hear! I always try to be when speaking to customers because I want to give a good impression of myself, Longs and Pall-Ex.”
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about your job?
“I don’t think many people would believe the amount of opportunities there are available in logistics, especially driving.
“It can be a really rewarding career and anyone who is considering taking that path, I would definitely recommend doing so.
“There are not many other jobs that can offer the freedom, social interaction and opportunities that logistics can, so definitely consider it as an option.”
For more information about Longs of Leeds, please visit; https://www.longsofleeds.co.uk/