Small Van School Shuttle for Families

Parents or guardians, private schools, and sometimes daycare or after-school programs.

A monthly or term fee per child, based on distance and number of pupils per run. Extra runs for activities or appointments can add income.

• Safe, patient driving with children
• Good communication with parents
• Route planning and punctuality

• Rules on vehicles carrying students differ by province and may treat them like school buses, so verify before buying
• Licence class, vehicle inspections and any municipal or provincial passenger transport permit
• Criminal record and vulnerable sector checks, which parents and schools will expect
• Commercial insurance that covers paid passenger transport; personal car insurance usually won't
• Winter driving risks and the need for backup when you or the van are unavailable
• Income drops during school holidays

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on the van or minibus you choose and your insurance and set-up. Treat it as a rough range and plan your own budget.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on how many students and runs you take on. The idea needs about 10 hours a week at minimum, and income drops during school holidays.

Check whether your province treats vehicles carrying students like school buses before buying. Also check licence class, vehicle inspections, any municipal or provincial passenger transport permit, criminal record and vulnerable sector checks, and commercial insurance covering paid passenger transport.