If you own a van, you're sitting on a goldmine of income opportunities. Whether a passenger or cargo van, your vehicle can be transformed into a money-making machine with the right strategy.
Below, we’ll discuss the most practical and profitable ways to make money while driving a van, including side gigs and full-time business ideas.
1. Start a Local Delivery Service
One of the easiest ways to earn money with a van is by offering delivery services. Small businesses, local florists, furniture stores, or even independent eCommerce sellers often need reliable transportation to deliver goods. You can transport items that won’t fit in a standard car with a cargo van.
Bonus Tip: Partner with multiple businesses in your area to create consistent weekly work.
2. Join Courier Platforms and Apps
Apps like Amazon Flex, Roadie, and GoShare allow van owners to sign up and earn almost immediately.
These platforms connect you with delivery gigs ranging from packages to bulky items. Since your cargo van can handle larger loads, you’ll often get paid more than sedan drivers.
Pro Tip: The larger the cargo, the bigger the paycheck, especially for same-day or urgent deliveries.
3. Offer Moving Services
People are constantly moving, and hiring a large company can be expensive.
Your cargo van can offer affordable local moving services. This is especially useful for small apartment moves, students relocating, or individuals shifting to nearby cities.
Add extra value by offering help with packing, loading, and unloading.
4. Rent Out Your Van
If you don’t want to be behind the wheel all the time, you can still earn money with a van by renting it out.
Websites like Turo, Getaround, and Outdoorsy let you list your van for rent. This is a great passive income source if your van is often idle.
Cargo vans are in demand for weekend projects, small business needs, or even as temporary moving vehicles.
5. Start a Mobile Business
From mobile pet grooming and car detailing to food delivery and repair services, there’s no limit to the types of mobile businesses you can run from your van. Your van can become your storefront if you have a particular skill or trade.
Some unique ideas include:
- Mobile bike repair
- Mobile thrift store
- Pop-up coffee bar
Your cargo van becomes not just transportation, but the heart of your business.
6. Hauling and Junk Removal
People constantly need help removing old furniture, appliances, or renovation waste.
You can offer hauling or junk removal services to homeowners and landlords. This is a low-investment business with high demand, especially in urban areas.
You’ll need to be ready for some heavy lifting, but the income potential is solid, especially with repeat clients or property managers.
7. Event and Equipment Transport
Musicians, DJS, caterers, and event planners need help transporting gear to venues.
Your van can be the solution they’re looking for. Create listings on gig websites or contact local event companies directly.
Build relationships and offer reliable, on-time service to earn referrals.
Final Thoughts
Whether looking for a side hustle or a full-time business, there are countless ways to make money with a cargo van.
Cargo vans are exceptionally versatile and open the door to many gigs that cars simply can’t handle.
From hauling and deliveries to mobile business ventures, your van is more than just a vehicle—it’s a powerful income-generating asset.
Creativity and hustle can turn your van into a steady cash stream.