Local courier by car or bike

Offices, solicitors, estate agents, opticians, local shops and individuals needing quick local delivery.

A set price per delivery or by distance band, with a minimum fee. You can also sign up with courier networks or delivery platforms, which pay per job.

• Good local knowledge
• Reliable and punctual
• Physical fitness if using a bike
• Friendly, professional manner

• Ordinary car insurance may not cover delivery for payment, so check hire and reward cover
• Cycle couriers should check cover for goods and for third party injury or damage
• Platform work can mean low pay per job once costs are counted, so work out your real hourly earnings
• Check whether being self-employed or a sole trader suits you and register with HMRC
• Weather and traffic can affect timings and safety

Startup costs are typically around £100 to £1,000, depending on whether you already have a suitable car or bike, plus insurance and any carrying gear. These are estimates, so check what your own set-up needs.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £300 to £1,500, depending on how many hours you work and the jobs you win. The estimate starts from about 6 hours a week, and platform work can pay little per job once costs are counted.

Check whether ordinary car insurance covers delivery for payment, or whether you need hire and reward cover. Cycle couriers should check cover for goods and third party injury or damage. Also check whether sole trader status suits you and register with HMRC.