Home-based car transport broker

Private owners relocating or buying a car online, used car dealers, snowbirds sending cars south or home again, leasing companies and small fleets.

You quote the customer a price, pay the carrier a lower agreed rate, and keep the difference as your fee. Some agents charge a flat booking fee or a commission from the carrier instead.

• Clear, honest communication
• Negotiating prices with carriers
• Organising pickups and delivery dates
• Calm handling of delays and complaints

• Check with your province and municipality whether any broker or transport registration applies, and whether a home-based business licence is needed
• Confirm each carrier has valid cargo insurance and operating authority, and ask for proof before you book
• Check what commercial general liability or brokers' errors and omissions cover you need
• Winter weather and mountain passes cause delays, so set realistic delivery windows
• Be careful with deposits and payment terms, and write down who is responsible if a vehicle is damaged

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your set-up, insurance and marketing. You don't own trucks, because you coordinate carriers who move the vehicles, so the main costs are running the business.

Check with your province and municipality whether any broker or transport registration applies, and whether a home-based business licence is needed. Confirm each carrier has valid cargo insurance and operating authority, and check what liability or errors and omissions cover you need.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many jobs you book and the fees you agree. The estimate assumes at least 15 hours a week. Winter weather can cause delays, so set realistic delivery windows.