By a Logistics Deliveryman
Every day, before I start my delivery route, I grab three things: my scanner, my keys, and my reflective safety vest. That vest is as essential to me as my vehicle—maybe more so. It's not just part of my uniform; it's part of what keeps me alive.
Most people don’t think twice when they see someone in a fluorescent yellow or orange vest. But for those of us in logistics and delivery, that vest means something. It means visibility. It means caution. It means getting home safe.
I’ve been doing this job for a few years now. Early mornings, late nights, rain, snow, traffic—you name it, I’ve delivered through it. And in all those conditions, visibility is everything. Whether I’m hopping out on a quiet suburban street or a busy city block, drivers often aren’t expecting to see a person in the road. That little strip of reflective material on my chest and back? It grabs their attention. And in some cases, it’s the reason they slow down instead of speeding past.
There’s a certain peace of mind that comes with wearing the vest. It’s lightweight and simple, but it tells the world: “I’m here. Watch out.” I’ve had close calls—too many, honestly. A distracted driver checking their phone. A delivery in a dimly lit alley. The vest isn’t a shield, but it gives me a fighting chance. And out there, that’s sometimes all you need.
It’s not just about safety for me, either. It’s about professionalism. When I show up at a customer's door wearing my vest, it sends a message: I take my job seriously. I’m prepared. I care about doing things the right way.
Some folks laugh or roll their eyes when I say this, but putting on that vest is a small ritual. It grounds me before a shift. Reminds me what’s important—not just the packages I’m delivering, but the people waiting for me at home. The vest helps make sure I get to see them again at the end of the day.
So, the next time you see a delivery driver in a reflective vest, know this: we’re not wearing it because it looks cool. We’re wearing it because we’ve seen what happens when you don’t.
And trust me, I’d rather look like a highlighter than end up as a headline.
Stay safe out there.
