Seasonal jobs at FedEx and UPS are among the most popular ways to earn extra money during the holiday rush.
From November to early January, parcel volumes increase sharply, and both companies hire thousands of temporary workers.
These roles are fast-paced and often physical, but they offer clear hourly wages, predictable shifts, and the chance to work overtime.
Why FedEx and UPS Seasonal Jobs Are So Popular
FedEx and UPS handle millions of additional packages around Black Friday, Christmas, and New Year.
To keep up with demand, they depend heavily on short-term staff to sort, move, and deliver parcels.
Many people are drawn to these roles because the hourly pay is often higher than retail jobs, and there is strong potential for extra hours.
Main Types of Seasonal Jobs at FedEx
Seasonal jobs are common in certain areas.
Package Handlers
These workers load and unload trucks, sort parcels by destination, and move packages around the warehouse.
The work is fast-paced and physical, with shifts usually lasting 3–6 hours, often in the early morning, evening, or overnight.
Because the work involves repetitive lifting, bending, and carrying, it suits applicants in reasonably good physical condition.
Seasonal Drivers and Couriers
These positions involve operating a company vehicle, following a planned route, scanning packages, and delivering parcels to homes and businesses.
Schedules can be full-time or part-time, depending on local needs.
A valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and the ability to lift and carry packages are usually required.
Admin and Support Roles
In some areas, FedEx posts seasonal administrative or support roles.
These may involve handling customer inquiries, assisting with routing and dispatch, or performing data entry.
Pay for these roles is usually similar to entry-level warehouse jobs but with less physical strain.
Main Types of Seasonal Jobs at UPS
Availability is more limited, so these positions tend to be filled quickly once advertised.
Package Handlers
At UPS, seasonal package handlers are essential to operations.
They work in large sorting hubs, moving parcels from conveyor belts to trucks and back again.
Many seasonal workers are later invited to apply for permanent part-time or full-time roles.
Personal Vehicle Drivers and Seasonal Delivery Drivers
One of the best-paying seasonal options at UPS is the Seasonal Personal Vehicle Driver (PVD).
These drivers use their own car to deliver packages, with UPS providing the parcels and route information.
Seasonal Delivery Drivers
UPS also hires seasonal delivery drivers who use company vehicles.
These roles involve long days, outdoor work, and strict safety procedures, but they can provide substantial short-term income in just a few weeks.
Warehouse and Support Positions
Beyond core sorting roles, UPS may post seasonal clerk or support jobs.
These can include scanning packages, updating tracking information, assisting drivers at local centers, or supporting dispatch operations.
Pay generally aligns with other hourly roles and may include opportunities for overtime during the busiest days.
How Much Can You Earn in One Peak Season?
Actual earnings depend on your hourly rate, hours worked, and whether you receive overtime.
FedEx seasonal package handler
At $18 per hour for 20 hours per week over 10 weeks, you could earn about $3,600 before taxes.
Extra shifts or overtime in December can push this higher.
UPS seasonal package handler
At $21 per hour for 25 hours per week over 8 weeks, you would earn around $4,200 before taxes.
If your hub offers more hours close to Christmas, total pay may increase.
UPS seasonal driver or PVD
At $22–$23 per hour for 40 hours per week over 6 weeks, you could earn roughly $5,000–$5,500 before taxes.
This plus mileage reimbursements if you use your own vehicle.
How to Apply for Seasonal Jobs at FedEx
Complete all sections carefully and honestly. Some sites allow you to apply for multiple nearby locations with one profile, which can increase your chances.
Step 1: Search for Openings Online
Start by visiting the official FedEx careers website.
Use the search filters to select your country or region, then add keywords like “seasonal,” “package handler,” or “courier.”
You can also search by city or ZIP code to find roles near you. Major job boards often list FedEx seasonal positions as well.
Step 2: Create a Profile and Submit Your Application
Once you find a suitable job, create an account on the careers site.
You will usually need to provide basic personal information, a simple résumé or work history, and your preferred shifts and availability
Confirmation that you can lift certain weights and work in a fast-paced environment
Step 3: Assessments, Interviews, and Background Checks
After applying, you might be asked to complete a short online assessment or be invited directly to a hiring event.
Hiring events can include a brief interview, an explanation of job duties, and, sometimes, a quick tour of the facility.
If selected, you’ll typically go through a background check and then receive your start date and training schedule.
How to Apply for Seasonal Jobs at UPS
Use these clear steps.
Step 1: Use the UPS Jobs Portal
Go to the official UPS jobs website and look for the section dedicated to hourly or seasonal roles. Use your ZIP code or city to search for nearby jobs.
Standard titles include “Seasonal Package Handler,” “Seasonal Personal Vehicle Driver,” and “Seasonal Delivery Driver.”
Many postings clearly mention “holiday season” or “peak season” in the description.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
To apply, you’ll need to create an account, fill in your personal and contact details, and provide information about your availability.
For driver roles, you may also be asked about your driver’s license status, driving record, and your personal vehicle (for PVD roles).
Having a clean driving record and a reliable vehicle increases your chances of higher-paid driver positions.
Step 3: Attend Hiring Events and Training
UPS frequently organizes mass hiring events or virtual info sessions to fill many seasonal positions at once.
If you’re selected, expect a background check and possibly a drug test, depending on local policies.
New hires usually attend a short training program covering safety rules, package handling procedures, use of scanners, and basic customer service.
Tips to Boost Your Chances and Maximize Income
Seasonal recruitment can begin as early as September or October in some areas. Early applicants get more choice of locations and shifts.
Early-morning, night, and weekend shifts are often harder to fill, so candidates who accept them may be hired faster and receive more hours.
Any past work involving lifting, warehouse duties, delivery, retail, or customer service can make your application stronger.
If you have a good driving record and a suitable vehicle, driver or personal vehicle driver jobs can pay several dollars more per hour than warehouse.
Final Thoughts: Is a Seasonal Job at FedEx or UPS Worth It?
Seasonal jobs at FedEx and UPS are challenging but with clear hourly pay, fixed tasks, and strong overtime potential.
The work can be physically demanding and involve early starts, late finishes, and bad weather.
However, pay in the $17–$19 per hour range at FedEx and around $21 or more at UPS, with driver roles paying even higher.
