Riders and Drivers Associates was set up in 2004 to provide an identity and resource for the thousands of self-employed courier riders and drivers who previously had only themselves to rely on for support and assistance.

• Help With Insurance:
  RDA finds out who will and who won't supply you with a quote and supplies that information in an easy-to-use format.
  
  
• Save Time and Effort:
  You are busy, working hard and then get hit with that parking ticket which you know to be incorrect. Our model letter helps you appeal.
  
• Kit and Resources:
  We regularly secure discounts and special deals for members on necessary components for successful couriers, like computer systems, tracking devices and clothing.
  
  
• Keep You Informed:
  Despatches Magazine Online, out bi-monthly, informs about the latest equipment, what's happening politically in the industry, technological developments and more. Regular sections include: information on money news, road transport and business developments, plus occasional articles from budding courier journalists.
  
  Regular newsletters sent out by the DA to its members and RDA members alike keep you absolutely up-do-date on issues that affect you today and tomorrow.
  
• Build Up Your Business:
  Tell your clients that you are professional and reliable. Membership of the only trade association just for freelance couriers says exactly that, as does that fact that by belonging, you agree to abide by and stand behind a Code of Practice. Put yourself a cut above the rest.

2 Publications of Interest.
First, the RDA Business Support Letter introduces you to new clients as an RDA member and therefore committed to providing a high level service. Piloted in The Despatch Association, it should definitely put you one step ahead when in competition with another (non-RDA member) freelancer for that special contract.

The second, A Guide to Income Protection for the Self-Employed, tackles an important area that sometimes the owner-driver is too busy to fully consider when healthy and business is booming and too occupied in other ways when not.

You may have one vehicle today, but success will enable you to grow and perhaps 'graduate' to corporate membership of The Despatch Association tomorrow, where many more resources await.

• Acquire a Voice - At Last!
  RDA, along with the DA, lobbies on behalf of the despatch and courier industry to preserve its interests and your business. From road tolls to increased vehicle and fuel tax, we work at local, regional and national levels to ensure its voice - your voice - is heard.

All for just £58.75 p.a.!!