The Despatch Association is an independent trade association which exists to protect the interests of its members whilst raising the profile of the courier industry nationally.
Our aim is to balance the need to support our members with a mission to set and maintain
The Despatch Association was formed in 1985 when the Radiocommunications Agency decided not to issue any more radio frequencies to courier companies. A group of courier company proprietors organised themselves into the DA to fight that decision.
That campaign was successful and since then, the Association has grown and developed in keeping with the needs of our members and changes in the courier industry. We continue to lobby for the industry as a whole but as well, we offer a rapid-response helpline, keep members informed through regular newsletters and provide business backup and support.
Most recently, the DA developed a branch for own-drivers. Riders and Drivers Associates (RDA http://www.ridersanddrivers.com/ ) helps sole traders by giving them a ‘voice’ as well as providing them with advice and information.
It was our efforts in 1998 that brought about the legality of the exemption for delivery and collection on most roads; now, the Association is lobbying for the extension of this exemption to Red Routes. We argue the case for couriers on congestion charging and road pricing. We represent the industry on all the major bodies such is Skills for Logistics, the National Motorcycle Council and ORSA and our contacts within the Department for Transport and regional and local government means that the opinions of couriers are heard.
Our 'Terms of Business', registered with the Office of Fair Trading, is just one of our many model policies, free to members, that is now the industry standard. Our easy-to-use Information Sheets in the areas of Business Management, Health and Safety and Employment keep members informed while saving them time and money.
Our rapid-response helpline gives members all they need to know, usually within 48 hrs., on such topics as provision for carrying dangerous goods, best employment practice, insurance and customer service.
It’s tough on the courier industry at the moment and things do not look set to get any easier. There is only one way to help ensure a thriving courier industry and, more importantly, your business. That way is to join the only trade association that has the muscle, the influence and the commitment to fight for you at all costs - The Despatch Association.
Membership starts at £200 per annum plus a one-off £50 joining fee (plus VAT). So why not join the organisation that's doing more for the courier industry and join the DA Now!