How to Start a Courier Business in the UK

How to Start a Courier Business in the UK

Thinking about starting a courier business? You’re not alone. With online shopping booming, food delivery flying, and same-day everything now expected as standard, the UK delivery market has never been busier. But while it sounds as simple as “van + driving = income”, there’s a bit more to it than loading up and legging it to the next postcode.

Courier businesses come in all shapes — from solo operators doing local drop-offs to larger fleets serving national contracts. Whether you’re looking to build a full-scale logistics company or just want to earn independently on your own schedule, a courier business can be a smart, flexible way to earn.

What Is a Courier Business?

A courier business handles the pick-up and delivery of goods for customers — usually parcels, packages, or documents. You’re the middleman between seller and receiver, expected to deliver quickly, safely, and reliably.

This could mean last-mile deliveries for online retailers, local same-day drop-offs for businesses, specialist services like medical samples, or bulk runs between warehouses and depots. Some courier businesses operate as subcontractors for major carriers like DPD, Evri, or Amazon. Others go independent and build their own client base.

You can run it from home, start with one vehicle, and scale up with more drivers or contracts as demand grows.

How Does a Courier Business Work?

It’s straightforward in theory. Someone needs something delivered. You pick it up and drop it off. They pay you for the service. But behind the wheel, there’s a lot more to manage: route planning, time tracking, fuel costs, customer service, paperwork, and (inevitably) traffic.

You’ll need to decide your model — are you doing local same-day delivery? Scheduled multi-drop runs? Contracted services for larger firms? Are you a self-employed driver or running a team?

You’ll also need a system for bookings and tracking. Even if you’re solo, clients expect basic updates, proof of delivery, and fast communication. Larger operations will need proper dispatch software and fleet tracking tools to keep everything moving smoothly.

What Do You Need to Get Started?

First, a reliable vehicle — van, car, or motorbike depending on your delivery type. You don’t need to buy brand-new, but it should be roadworthy, fuel-efficient, and big enough for your typical jobs.

You’ll need courier insurance — not just standard car insurance. This means ‘Hire and Reward’ cover, which legally allows you to carry goods for payment. If you plan to expand, you’ll also want goods-in-transit insurance and possibly public liability cover too.

Next, register your business with HMRC (as a sole trader or limited company), keep records of income and expenses, and stay on top of tax returns. You’ll also want to track mileage, fuel costs, tolls and maintenance — it all affects your profit.

And don’t forget the extras: a mobile phone with a strong data plan, basic delivery gear (sat nav, straps, blankets, maybe a trolley), and a system for managing bookings — even if it’s just a Google Sheet to begin with.

What Are the Benefits?

Flexibility is the big one. You choose your hours, your routes, and your workload. If you want to start small and build around another job or family commitments, you can. Many drivers start solo and gradually expand as they pick up regular work or bigger clients.

Demand is constant. Businesses need deliveries every day — even more so with the rise of e-commerce and local buying. And if you can offer reliable same-day service, you’ll quickly build a loyal base.

It’s also relatively low barrier to entry. You don’t need fancy qualifications, just a clean licence, common sense, and a strong work ethic. Plus, you’re not tied to one location — your business moves wherever the van does.

What Are the Drawbacks?

It’s physical graft. Long hours, lifting packages, traffic delays, dodgy parking situations — it’s not glamorous. And if your vehicle breaks down, your income stops.

Fuel and maintenance costs eat into profits. Insurance isn’t cheap either, especially if you’ve got multiple drivers or specialist items. Margins can be tight if you’re undercharging or relying on low-paying gig platforms.

Then there’s competition. With big names dominating national delivery, smaller courier businesses need to carve out a niche or provide a better, faster or more personal service to stand out.

And finally, it can be a lonely job. If you’re driving all day solo, you’ll need to be comfortable with your own company — and your own playlist.

Summary

Starting a courier business in the UK is a practical, scalable option for anyone who wants to work independently and doesn’t mind a bit of driving and hustle. With the right vehicle, insurance, and business mindset, you can go from local runs to long-term clients and grow at your own pace.

It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme — it’s a hard-working, steady-earning, service-based business. But in a world that keeps ordering online and wanting it delivered yesterday, being the one who gets it there is a smart place to be.