If you’re looking for a flexible way to earn extra income, one of the fastest-growing opportunities is to deliver packages with your own car. More companies than ever are hiring independent drivers to meet the demand for fast, reliable delivery services. All you need is a dependable vehicle, a valid license, and a willingness to hit the road.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get started, from understanding how the process works to finding the best companies that let you use your own vehicle to deliver packages. We’ll also cover the costs to consider, tips for maximizing earnings, and how to prepare financially so you can start driving with confidence.
Why Deliver Packages with Your Own Car?
Choosing to deliver packages with your own car is one of the most flexible and accessible ways to earn money. If you have a reliable vehicle and some free time, you can get started almost immediately—no special equipment or commercial license required.
Many gig workers prefer this path because it allows them to create their own schedules and control how much they work. Whether you want a steady side hustle or a full-time income, using your car for delivery can easily fit into your lifestyle.
Benefits of Using Your Own Vehicle
When you use your own vehicle to deliver packages, you set your hours, choose your jobs, and work at your own pace. This freedom makes it easier to balance deliveries with other commitments. Plus, with the growing demand for fast shipping, drivers enjoy steady earning potential.
More Ways to Earn Money
Curious about how does car delivery work in different areas? In busy cities, you’ll find plenty of short, frequent deliveries. You may cover longer routes in suburban or rural areas, but earn more per trip. No matter where you live, there’s high demand for dependable drivers who want to deliver Amazon packages in your own car or work with other delivery platforms.
For more insights into gig worker benefits and flexible income options, check out this guide from Giggle Finance
How Does Car Delivery Work?
If you’re new to this type of gig, you might wonder, how does car delivery work in practice? The process is straightforward, and once you understand the steps, you can start earning quickly. From signing up on a platform to completing your first drop-off, the path is designed to be beginner-friendly. Plus, many drivers appreciate that instant pay options make it easier to manage cash flow.
General Process
Sign-Up
Start by choosing a delivery platform that works in your area. Popular options include Amazon Flex, DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Postmates. Each has its own app and sign-up process, but most are quick to complete online.
Background Check
Before you can start, most companies will run a basic background check. This typically includes your driving history and criminal record to ensure customer safety.
Orientation
Some platforms offer virtual or in-person orientation to explain how their system works, from navigating the app to handling deliveries. This step helps you get comfortable before your first shift.
Picking Up and Delivering Packages
Once approved, you’ll receive delivery requests through the app. You’ll head to the pick-up location, load your vehicle, and follow the app’s GPS to deliver packages to customers. Most apps track your progress and confirm each delivery in real time.
How to Deliver Amazon Packages in Your Own Car
If you’ve been curious about how to deliver Amazon packages in your own car, Amazon Flex makes it possible. This program allows you to work as an independent contractor, using your personal vehicle to deliver orders. You choose your schedule, get paid directly to your bank account, and can plan work around your life. It’s also a great way to keep income flowing between other gigs, helping you manage cash flow between gig work payments.
How Does Car Delivery Work with Amazon Flex?
Amazon Flex makes it simple to use your own vehicle to deliver packages:
Requirements
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have a valid driver’s license
- Maintain auto insurance
- Drive a mid-sized sedan or larger vehicle
Sign-Up Process
- Download the Amazon Flex app
- Create your account
- Enter your personal and vehicle details
Scheduling Deliveries
Amazon Flex operates with “delivery blocks,” which are fixed shifts you reserve in the app. These blocks typically last 3–6 hours, and you can book as many as your schedule allows.
Pay Rates
Drivers typically earn $18–$25 per hour, depending on location and demand. Payments are sent twice a week, and in some cases, same-day pay is available.
Other Companies That Let You Use Your Own Vehicle to Deliver Packages
Amazon Flex isn’t the only option if you want to use your own vehicle to deliver packages. Several companies and gig platforms offer similar opportunities, each with its own requirements, pay rates, and flexibility. Exploring multiple platforms can help you keep a steady income and fill in slow days with extra work. If you need quick cash in between pay cycles, you can also check out the best cash advance apps for gig workers to stay on top of expenses.
UPS Seasonal Support Driver Program
UPS hires drivers through its Seasonal Support Driver Program, especially during peak seasons. You’ll use your own car to deliver packages, with pay rates often ranging from $21–$25 per hour. The work can be fast-paced and physically demanding, but it’s a great seasonal income boost.
FedEx SameDay
FedEx works with independent couriers for urgent, same-day deliveries. Pay depends on location, package volume, and contractual arrangements, but drivers typically earn competitive hourly rates.
Local Courier Services
Many cities have courier companies that hire independent drivers for medical, legal, and same-day deliveries. These jobs often pay $15–$25 per hour and may provide consistent local work.
Gig Apps
Platforms like Roadie, GoShare, and Dispatch connect drivers with customers needing packages delivered. You can choose jobs based on location, pay rate, and schedule, giving you flexibility to fit deliveries into your day.
Costs and Considerations Before You Start
Before you jump into delivering packages with your own car, it’s important to understand the costs and commitments involved. While the earning potential is real, there are expenses that can eat into your profits if you don’t plan ahead.
Vehicle Wear and Tear
Frequent driving means more maintenance—think oil changes, tire replacements, and brake checks. These costs add up, especially if you’re putting on extra miles every week.
Gas and Insurance
Fuel prices can change quickly, so tracking your gas expenses is key. You may also need to update your insurance policy to include commercial or delivery use. Some companies require proof of this before you start.
Self-Employment Taxes
If you’re working as an independent contractor, you’ll be responsible for your own taxes. This means setting aside a portion of your earnings to cover quarterly tax payments. You can learn more in our guide on tax tips for 1099 workers.
By calculating these costs before starting, you’ll have a clearer picture of your net earnings and you’ll be better prepared to keep your delivery side hustle profitable.
Tips to Maximize Your Earnings
Once you’ve started delivering packages with your own car, small adjustments can make a big difference in your earnings. The goal is to work smarter, not just longer.
Plan Routes Efficiently
Use GPS apps that optimize multiple stops to cut down on fuel use and time on the road. This means you can fit in more deliveries without burning extra gas.
Choose Peak Times
Some platforms offer higher pay during busy hours or high-demand days. Working evenings, weekends, or around major shopping events can boost your earnings.
Maintain Your Vehicle
A well-maintained car not only avoids costly repairs but also ensures you don’t lose work time to breakdowns.
Track Your Expenses
Keeping detailed records of gas, maintenance, and tolls helps you understand your true profit. It also makes tax season easier, especially for gig workers. If you need help staying financially steady between payouts, check out our guide on managing cash flow between gig work payments.
Keep Customer Service in Mind
Politeness and reliability can sometimes open the door to better routes or preferred status with certain companies, giving you more consistent work.
Final Thoughts
Delivering packages with your own car can be a flexible and profitable way to earn extra income—whether it’s a side hustle or a full-time gig. By choosing the right platform, planning routes wisely, and maintaining your vehicle, you can keep expenses low and maximize earnings. Remember, success in delivery work comes from balancing efficiency with reliability.If you’re ready to start or need fast, flexible funding to cover vehicle expenses and keep your gig running smoothly, apply for funding with Giggle Finance. We’re here to help you stay on the road and in control of your cash flow.