Same-Day van courier

Local businesses such as solicitors, print shops, florists, parts suppliers and online sellers, plus some private customers.

Per job, per mile or per hour for direct runs, or a fixed price for regular scheduled rounds. Repeat business clients give steadier income than one-off jobs.

• Reliable and punctual
• Route planning
• Comfortable driving for long stretches
• Clear communication with customers

• Standard car or van insurance usually does not cover carrying goods for payment, so check you have hire and reward cover
• Goods in transit insurance for loss or damage to items you carry
• Public liability insurance is worth checking too
• Van running costs, fuel and wear can eat into earnings, so price jobs carefully
• Some customers pay late, so agree payment terms upfront
• Check whether you need an operator licence if you carry goods for hire and reward in heavier vehicles

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £1,000 to £8,000, depending on your van, insurance and any equipment you need. Van running costs, fuel and wear can eat into earnings, so price jobs carefully.

Things to check: standard van insurance may not cover carrying goods for payment, so look at hire and reward cover; goods in transit and public liability insurance; and whether you need an operator licence for heavier vehicles.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £1,200 to £5,000, depending on your jobs, regular runs and hours. Many couriers work at least 15 hours a week. Agree payment terms upfront, as some customers pay late.