How much does it cost to start a courier business?

Example budget, own car versus a used cargo van (your costs will differ):

Item	Low (your own car)	High (used cargo van)
Vehicle down payment or purchase	$0	$12,000
Commercial auto insurance (down payment)	$300	$2,500
Business registration and license	$50	$400
Phone, mount and route app	$100	$500
Hand truck, bins, straps	$100	$500
Medical coolers and spill kit (if needed)	$0	$600
Training courses clients ask for	$0	$500
Magnetic signs, business cards, website	$100	$800
First month of fuel and upkeep	$300	$1,200
Total	$950	$19,000

Many owners start with their own vehicle. A car or small van usually does not need a USDOT number. A vehicle of 10,001 pounds or more used across state lines does, and some states require one for in-state trucks (see answer 125).

Price each run so it covers miles and waiting. In the guide's worked example, a same-day run is a $20 base rate, plus 18 loaded miles at $1.75 ($31.50), plus 20 minutes of wait time at $0.50 a minute ($10), for $61.50. Track every mile from day one, and put your own numbers into the free startup cost calculator.

General information, not tax, legal or financial advice. Check the rules for your state and your situation.