If you're a truck driver or fleet owner looking to make money by delivering Amazon freight, Amazon Relay could be the perfect opportunity for you. Amazon Relay connects qualified drivers with freight from Amazon.
Offering flexible routes and the ability to choose loads that work best with your schedule and location. Whether you're just starting in the logistics industry or are an experienced driver, this guide will walk you through the entire process of signing up for Amazon.
What is Amazon Relay?
Amazon Relay is a transportation service that Amazon uses to move freight from its fulfillment centers to various delivery destinations, including distribution centers, sortation centers, and other Amazon hubs.
It allows independent truck drivers and fleet owners to book Amazon freight directly through the Amazon Relay platform. Relay is part of Amazon’s broader strategy to expand its logistics capabilities and streamline the movement of goods within its network.
Drivers who use Relay can pick up and deliver loads at Amazon’s distribution centers, ranging from full truckloads (FTL) to less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments. It's a great opportunity for drivers to find steady work, and it offers the freedom to select loads that fit their preferences.
Why Choose Amazon Relay?
Before diving into the sign-up process, let’s take a moment to discuss why is a popular choice for truck drivers and fleet owners:
Steady Work: With Amazon's vast distribution network, there is a constant flow of loads available, providing drivers with the opportunity to keep their trucks busy.
Flexible Schedules: Drivers can choose which loads they want to accept, offering flexibility and control over their work hours.
No Middleman: Amazon cuts out brokers, meaning drivers have direct access to Amazon’s freight and can choose loads directly without dealing with a middleman.
Competitive Pay: While pay rates vary depending on the load, is often viewed as offering competitive pay compared to other freight platforms.
Technology-Driven: The platform provides real-time tracking, automated payments, and other features that make the logistics process easier.
Now that you know a bit about Amazon, let’s go through the sign-up process.
Meet the Requirements
Before you can sign up for Relay, you need to make sure that you meet certain basic requirements. These include:
Driver or Fleet Owner: You must either be an independent driver or own a fleet of trucks.
Commercial Driver's License (CDL): A valid CDL is necessary if you are planning to drive a truck with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of over 26,000 lbs.
Truck Registration: Your truck must be properly registered, and you should have proof of registration.
Insurance: Amazon requires all drivers to have the proper insurance coverage. This typically includes commercial auto insurance, liability coverage, and additional types of insurance depending on your location and the type of freight you will be transporting.
Safety Rating: Your company (if you’re a fleet owner) must have a satisfactory safety rating with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This includes compliance with regulations and no history of significant safety violations.
Technology: You will need a smartphone or a tablet to use the Relay app, which is available on both Android and iOS devices.
Once you’ve confirmed that you meet these requirements, you can move to the next step.
Fill in Your Personal Information: You will be asked to provide basic personal details such as your name, address, phone number, and email address. This is the information Amazon will use to contact you.
Enter Business Information: If you are registering as a fleet owner, you’ll need to enter your company name, tax identification number, and other relevant business information.
Provide Your CDL Number: As part of the sign-up process, you will need to input your CDL (Commercial Driver's License) number to verify that you are legally able to drive the type of truck required for Relay.
Agree to Terms and Conditions: You will be required to agree to Amazon's terms and conditions, which outline your responsibilities and what is expected of you as a driver or fleet owner on the platform.
Submit Your Application: Once all of the necessary details have been filled in, submit your application. Amazon will review the information you’ve provided to ensure that you meet their requirements.
Complete the Safety and Compliance Checks
Once your application has been submitted, Amazon will conduct a series of safety and compliance checks. These checks ensure that you are qualified to operate under Amazon’s logistics network. They may include:
Safety Ratings: Amazon will verify your company’s safety rating, if you are a fleet owner, or check your personal driving history if you are an individual driver.
Insurance Verification: Amazon will confirm that you have the proper insurance coverage for your truck and business operations.
FMCSA Compliance: If you’re a fleet owner, Amazon will ensure that you comply with FMCSA regulations and that your fleet is registered with the agency.
This step could take a few days to complete, depending on the information you’ve provided and any necessary background checks.
Conclusion
Signing up for Amazon Relay is a relatively straightforward process that allows truck drivers and fleet owners to tap into Amazon’s vast logistics network. By meeting the requirements, completing the application process, and using the app, you can start earning money by transporting freight for Amazon.
It’s a great way to gain access to steady work with flexible scheduling and competitive pay. So, whether you're looking to increase your earnings or simply explore a new opportunity in the logistics industry, Relay is worth considering.