Local business delivery service

Local retailers, restaurants, florists, furniture and appliance shops, wholesalers and small online sellers who lack their own drivers.

Per-delivery fees, a weekly or monthly route contract with regular clients, or hourly rates for dedicated runs. Distance, size and weight affect the price.

• Safe, reliable driving
• Route planning
• Customer service
• Lifting and handling goods

• Commercial auto insurance with goods-in-transit cover; personal car insurance often won't cover paid deliveries
• Check your province for commercial vehicle, plate or hours-of-service rules, which can apply above certain vehicle weights
• Check your municipality for a business licence
• Winter driving costs and delays; plan for snow tires and slower days
• Damaged or lost goods: agree terms with clients in writing

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $20,000, depending on the van and equipment you need. Monthly revenue is estimated at roughly $2,000 to $9,000, depending on your clients, routes and how many runs you book.

Check for commercial auto insurance with goods-in-transit cover, as personal car insurance often won't cover paid deliveries. Check your province for commercial vehicle, plate or hours-of-service rules, which can apply above certain vehicle weights, and your municipality for a business licence.

You need safe, reliable driving, route planning, customer service and the ability to handle goods. Estimates suggest at least around 15 hours a week. Plan for winter driving costs and delays, and agree terms with clients in writing.