Couriering like many industries has seen considerable growth as business continues to flourish across Europe. To assist employers and employees alike in the courier industry, several associations have been formed which offer mutual benefits to its members and the industry as a whole.

The following is an overview of some prominent associations within the courier industry and explains how they benefit the industry and how they can assist you.

When the NCA first came about in 1988, it was known as the ‘National Network of Courier Companies’ (NNCC). Its primary objective was to allow its members the ability to inter-trade and provide their customers with a national same-day collection and delivery service. At this time the business relied solely on strong performance and word of mouth to acquire new members.

By 1990 the organisation was renamed the National Courier Association (NCA), and had managed to acquire a vast number of members throughout the UK. The members wanted to nationalise and expand their same day courier activities. The NCA gave members that were involved and trading with one another a chance to synchronise their aims.

Over the next few years the NCA evolved beyond all expectations. In 1992 the NCA devised a new image including a new logo. The NCA demanded high standards from its membership, checking out its potential members thoroughly before granting them membership status. Even when this status is granted the association continuously monitors its members to make sure they continually maintain high levels of service.

Today the NCA consists of around 100 members from all around the UK, operating a fleet of over 2,500 couriers. In addition, the NCA has also granted membership to associate members representing European firms.

In 2000, the European Express Organisation (EEO) merged with the Association of European Express carriers (AEEC). The result saw the creation of the European Express Association (EEA), representing the European courier industry with one single voice.

In Europe the express distribution industry employs 250,000 employees that deliver around 450 million packages each year. The European Express Association (EEA) represents companies both large and small in the air express cargo industry, including four of the world’s largest air express carriers DHL, FEDEX, TNT and UPS.