In a country where immigration status can be a barrier to accessing job opportunities, one Chilean immigrant has defied expectations, earning $5,000 a month as a package delivery man in the United States.
This story not only highlights the ability to overcome difficulties, but also the complexities that immigrants face when trying to build a better life abroad.
Jorge’s story: How does he make $5,000 a month in the United States?
Jorge, a Chilean immigrant who has been in the United States for just over a year, shares his experience in a job sector that has grown in recent years: package delivery. All of this is part of a video made by the YouTuber “Call me Jorge,” who has more than 600,000 subscribers.
Without legal papers and with a basic level of English, Jorge has managed to establish himself as a delivery driver, facing challenges ranging from navigating complex delivery routes to interacting with customers who can sometimes be unsympathetic.
“I started this job with another vehicle that consumed a lot of fuel. I realized that if I wanted to earn more, I had to reduce those costs,” says Jorge, who purchased a more efficient car to maximize his earnings. This change has allowed him to increase his net income, despite the high costs associated with the job, such as insurance and gasoline expenses.
How many packages do you deliver per day?
Jorge’s job involves delivering between 80 and 240 packages a day, a task that requires meticulous organization. From loading the vehicle to verifying addresses, every step is crucial to ensure that the packages reach their destination.
“Leaving a package at the wrong address can be a big problem, both for the customer and for me. I have to be sure everything is in order before I get out of the van,” he explains.
Language, a barrier that is always difficult to overcome for immigrants
One of the main challenges he faces is the language barrier. Although his English is limited, Jorge has found ways to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues. He uses translation apps and, when necessary, sends text messages to avoid misunderstandings.
“Sometimes it is difficult when you don’t fully understand what they are saying to you, but I always find a way to resolve it. It is not convenient for me to return a package because that means I won’t get paid for that delivery,” he explains.
In addition to the daily difficulties of the job, Jorge stresses the importance of having a valid driver’s license in the United States, a fundamental requirement to work as a delivery driver. “You don’t need a high level of English, but without a driver’s license, you can’t do this job,” he says.