Independent Contractor Merchandiser Jobs in Decatur, GA

About the Role

VPLS Logistics, LLC is contracting road-ready, self-motivated professionals to run assigned delivery and sales routes out of our Riverdale, Georgia office. You will operate our vehicle and equipment across a defined Georgia-area territory, build genuine customer relationships, and grow your route's revenue.

This is a 1099 contract position. You set your pace, you own your results, and your earnings reflect exactly how hard you work — no micromanagement, just clear expectations, solid pay, and uncapped commission for every account you grow.

Responsibilities

•     Drive a designated daily route, delivering product accurately and on time to all assigned accounts.

•     Build and maintain strong customer relationships through consistent, professional service.

•     Load, unload, and verify orders using load sheets and handheld devices; rotate and merchandise product on-site.

•     Actively upsell, introduce new products, and execute promotions to grow route revenue.

•     Collect payments (cash, check, card, ACH); complete daily settlements and deposit reconciliation.

•     Plan efficient stop sequences and adapt to conditions such as traffic, weather, and special requests.

•     Perform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections; report maintenance needs promptly.

•     Maintain accurate DOT logs, route books, delivery documentation, and inventory records.

•     Install and set up product displays, signage, and promotional materials at customer locations.

•     Report on route performance, customer feedback, and sales opportunities to management weekly.

•     Perform any other duties, tasks, or responsibilities as management deems necessary.

What We Provide

•     Route truck and all equipment supplied — zero vehicle cost to the contractor.

•     Fuel card for all route-related driving.

•     Handheld scanner, route software, and navigation tools.

•     All product loaded and inventory ready at the start of each shift.

•     Defined route and established customer base — no cold prospecting.

•     Weekly pay — commission settlements processed each pay period.

•     Access to larger or additional routes for strong performers.

•     Local routes — home daily, with no overnight travel on standard routes.

Qualifications

Required

•     Valid Georgia driver's license with a clean motor vehicle record.

•     Must pass a pre-contract drug screening — zero-tolerance policy in effect.

•     Must provide a current Motor Vehicle Record (MVR), reviewed prior to route assignment.

•     Must hold a valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) before operating a company vehicle.

•     Ability to lift, carry, and move up to 75 lbs repeatedly throughout the workday.

•     Strong customer-service mindset with professional verbal communication.

•     Basic math skills for payment collection and inventory counts.

•     Ability to operate handheld devices and GPS/navigation apps.

•     High school diploma or GED equivalent.

•     Must be 21 years of age or older (DOT / insurance requirement).

•     Available Monday through Friday with a 6:00 AM shift start.

Preferred

•     CDL Class B or Class A (or willingness to obtain within 90 days).

•     1–3 years of DSD, route sales, or delivery driver experience.

•     Familiarity with route management or CRM software.

•     Prior merchandising or retail account management experience.

•     Experience operating pallet jacks, hand trucks, or powered industrial equipment.

•     Basic mechanical aptitude (higher pay tier available).

•     Bilingual English/Spanish a strong plus.

Schedule

Days

Monday through Friday

Start Time

6:00 AM from the VPLS Logistics office, 6030 GA-85, Riverdale, GA 30274

Route Size

Variable — from short high-density runs to longer multi-stop routes; flexibility required

Hours

Typically 8–10 hours depending on daily route assignment

Onboarding

Paid ride-along orientation before solo operation begins

Pre-Contract Requirements

All of the following must be completed and on file before route assignment:

1.  Pass a drug screening (zero-tolerance policy in effect throughout the contract term).

2.  Provide a current Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) — clean record required.

3.  Hold a valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) / current physical.

1099 Independent Contractor Disclosure

IMPORTANT — Please read before applying.

This is an independent contractor position governed under the laws of the State of Georgia. You will NOT be classified as an employee of VPLS Logistics, LLC.

•     You will receive a 1099-NEC at year end — taxes are not withheld from payments.

•     You are responsible for paying your own self-employment tax (15.3% on net earnings).

•     No employee benefits are provided (no health insurance, 401(k), or paid leave).

•     Georgia state income tax applies at a 5.39% flat rate — Georgia has no separate state self-employment tax.

•     You may need to make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS and Georgia DOR.

We recommend consulting a tax professional before beginning contract work. Contractors are encouraged to set aside approximately 25–30% of gross earnings for combined federal and state tax obligations.