Courier drivers across the U.S. are often denied fair pay, and a recent $1 million settlement involving DHL Express (USA) Inc. and its last-mile delivery partner Sidwell Air Freight shows just how serious these violations can be.

In the case, 47 courier drivers sued, claiming they worked long hours but were denied overtime pay. Sidwell and DHL ultimately agreed to pay $1,000,000 to settle the claims.

How the Courier Drivers Were Allegedly Paid

According to the lawsuit, drivers were:

• Paid a flat daily rate of $150/day, and
• Paid a flat daily “overtime” rate of $165–$200, instead of receiving proper time-and-a-half for hours worked over 40 per week.

This type of payment structure violates the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which guarantees overtime pay to most employees after 40 hours in a workweek.

Broader Problem – Couriers Are Often Denied Overtime Pay

The allegations in the Sidwell–DHL case is not unique. Across the delivery and logistics industry, courier drivers are routinely:

• Paid by the mile, route, load, or day
• Misclassified as independent contractors, even when they follow company procedures, wear uniforms, and work company-controlled schedules
• Paid “straight time” only, with no increase for overtime hours
• Expected to work 40+ hours per week, without receiving overtime pay

These pay structures may be illegal—even if the company labels the drivers as “independent contractors.”

What the Settlement Covered

The $1 million settlement included:

• Payments to the members of the settlement class
• Attorneys’ fees (up to 33%)
• $30,000 in litigation costs
• $5,000 service awards for the named plaintiffs
• $17,250 in settlement administration costs

This case shows that courier drivers can fight back—and win.

Do You Work as a Courier or Delivery Driver?

If you’re a current or former courier driver and were: paid straight time, or by the load, mile, route, or day,

You may be owed thousands in unpaid overtime, plus double damages and legal fees.

Courier Drivers – Know Your Overtime Pay Rights!

I’m Josh Borsellino, an attorney who helps drivers and workers nationwide recover unpaid wages. I’ve helped hundreds of workers win the unpaid wages they earned.

📞 Call or Text: 817.908.9861
📧 Email: josh@dfwcounsel.com

Free consultation. No fees unless we recover for you.

If you’ve been paid a flat rate, by the load or mile, or as a contractor, contact me today to learn about your rights. Time limits apply, so don’t wait.