Local delivery runs for businesses

Small shops, cafes, wholesalers, florists, local makers and online sellers who need regular drop-offs but don't run their own vehicles.

Fixed price per run or per drop, or an hourly or per-kilometre rate. Regular weekly contracts give steadier income than one-off jobs.

• Reliable driving and route planning
• Good time keeping
• Careful handling of goods
• Simple record keeping and invoicing

• Commercial vehicle insurance, as private car cover often excludes carrying goods for a fee
• Goods in transit and public liability insurance, check what is covered if items are damaged
• Vehicle weight limits and licence class, check with your state transport authority
• Fuel, tolls and vehicle wear can eat into margins, so price them in
• Check GST registration once your turnover reaches the threshold

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on your vehicle, insurance and any equipment for carrying goods. Fuel, tolls and vehicle wear also affect your margins, so price them into your rates.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on how many regular runs you win and the routes you cover. Fuel, tolls and vehicle wear can eat into margins, so price them in.

Things to check: commercial vehicle insurance, as private car cover often excludes carrying goods for a fee, plus goods in transit and public liability cover. Check vehicle weight limits and licence class with your state transport authority, and GST.