Starting a courier business in the UK can be a smart move, especially with the continued growth of e-commerce, local deliveries and on-demand services. From parcel delivery to specialised same-day drop-offs, there’s constant demand for fast and reliable couriers. If you're looking for a self-employed opportunity or want to build a delivery business from the ground up, the steps are fairly straightforward — but success depends on planning, consistency and knowing your market.
A courier business can start small, with just one vehicle and a mobile phone, but can also scale into a larger operation with multiple drivers, routes and clients. Whether you want to operate independently or contract through a larger network, the key is understanding how the industry works and what customers need.
Set Up Your Business Structure
The first step in launching a courier business is choosing how you'll operate legally. Most people start as a sole trader, which is simple to register and manage. This allows you to invoice clients directly, file your own taxes, and operate under your own name or a trading name. Others may choose to register a limited company for more protection and to appear more professional when pitching to larger clients.
Once you’ve registered, you’ll need to keep records of income and expenses and set aside money for tax. Many self-employed couriers work under contract for major delivery companies, while others build their own customer base locally.
Choose a Vehicle and Insurance
Your vehicle is your biggest asset in this business. Whether you start with a small car, a van or a bike will depend on the type of deliveries you plan to offer. Local documents and small packages can be done on two wheels, but parcels and bulk deliveries will require a reliable van.
You’ll need the right insurance — not just standard car or van insurance, but specific courier or “hire and reward” insurance, which covers you for transporting goods professionally. Without it, your policy may be invalid in the event of a claim. You should also consider goods-in-transit cover, which protects the items you're carrying in case they are lost or damaged.
Get Equipment and Plan Your Services
To operate efficiently, you'll need a smartphone, a basic logistics app, and a system for tracking deliveries. Many couriers use apps provided by the platforms they work for, while independent couriers may use route planning software or delivery management tools to stay organised.
Think about what services you’ll offer — same-day delivery, scheduled routes, local business deliveries or urgent point-to-point drop-offs. If you want to stand out, you might focus on niche areas like fragile items, legal documents or eco-friendly local delivery.
Find Work and Build a Client Base
When you're just starting, you might choose to work through a larger company like Evri, Yodel, DPD or Amazon. These services offer regular work and structure, which can help you learn the business without the pressure of finding your own clients.
If you want to operate independently, you’ll need to find local businesses who need regular deliveries — florists, pharmacies, catering companies and online sellers are all potential clients. Building strong relationships, being reliable and offering fair pricing will help you grow through word of mouth.
Online marketing, local ads, or even a simple website can help you present your services professionally.
Grow and Manage Your Business
As demand grows, you may decide to take on more work or hire other drivers. This brings new challenges like scheduling, payroll, vehicle maintenance and customer service. Keeping things organised from the beginning — using clear systems for payments, bookings and route planning — will help you grow sustainably.
Good customer communication, consistent service and clear pricing will build trust and loyalty. Whether you're working alone or running a small fleet, the courier industry rewards those who deliver on time and go the extra mile.
Summary
Starting a courier business in the UK can be a profitable and flexible way to earn an income, especially with the ongoing demand for delivery services. By setting up legally, choosing the right vehicle, getting the correct insurance and building strong client relationships, you can launch a successful service with minimal upfront investment. With hard work and consistency, your courier business can grow steadily and become a trusted part of your local economy.