Tips & Advice

Making money with a cargo van can be an excellent way to generate extra cash or even create a full-time business.

Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur looking for a lucrative business opportunity or just searching for a way to supplement your income, a cargo van can be a great asset to help you make money. 

In this article, we’ll explain how to make money with a cargo van and the steps you need to take to get started.

Can You Use a Cargo Van To Make Money?

A cargo van is the perfect vehicle for making money because it offers a large amount of space to store goods and supplies. It is also an economical choice as it is a great way to transport goods while keeping costs low. 

Moreover, cargo vans are great for making deliveries as they have plenty of room to store items securely. Plus, with enough practice, you’ll find that they are actually easy to maneuver.

Research the Market

Researching the market is essential before committing to any business venture. You will need to consider what types of delivery services are already in your area, what the competition looks like, and who your potential customers are.

You can also research flat rates for different types of deliveries and what types of equipment, such as cargo straps, you may need.

Additionally, take a look into the trucking industry to get a better idea of what kind of cargo van business you want to start. Consider delivery driver jobs, grocery delivery services, and other lucrative cargo van business opportunities in your area.

Research the Legal Requirements

Before getting started, it is important to understand the legal requirements in your area for operating a cargo van business. Depending on the type of business you intend to run, you may need to get a valid driver’s license and a proper insurance plan.

You may also need to acquire the proper equipment for the job, such as cargo straps, heavy lifting equipment, and any other items necessary for safely transporting goods or services.

Research the local laws, regulations, and licensing requirements to make sure you are compliant with all legal requirements.

What Are the Different Ways To Make Money With Your Van?

You will find no shortage of options when looking for ways to make money with your cargo van. To give you an idea, here are the most common ventures that can earn you the most money:

Deliveries/Courier Services

Deliveries or courier services involve picking up items from one location and delivering them to another. Sometimes, this business can also include heavy lifting. It is a great way to make passive income and can be a lucrative business opportunity.

To make money with this type of service, you will need to research potential customers and the types of deliveries they need. You may also need to consider flat rate prices, as well as the costs of cargo straps and other equipment necessary for the job.

This type of service is also great for pet owners, as you can offer pet grooming services and other services that require transportation. That said, independent contractors are often hired for delivery jobs, such as food delivery drivers or restaurant delivery services.

Lease/Rental Service

Renting or leasing a cargo van can provide a steady stream of additional income. Potential customers may include landscaping businesses, pet owners, or independent contractors. 

Unlike deliveries, renting or leasing your cargo van requires little effort on your part. Depending on the type of rental vehicle you have, you may be able to charge a flat rate or offer a discounted rate for longer-term rentals.

If you choose to rent or lease your cargo van, you will need to be aware of the competition in your area, as well as the types of rentals available. You will also need to determine the rental price range you want to charge.

Additionally, you will need to make sure your van is in good condition and that you have the necessary insurance plan to protect yourself and your customers.

Selling Goods

Selling goods is another great way to make money with a cargo van. That said, there are a few different ways to approach this type of business. 

You could use your van to transport and sell items at flea markets, farmers’ markets, and craft fairs. Others use their cargo vans to purchase items from wholesalers and then resell them at a higher price. Additionally, you could buy items from thrift stores and resell them on websites like eBay or Amazon.

Regardless of the method you choose, remember to do your research to determine what items are in demand and what prices people are willing to pay. This will help ensure that your business is profitable.

Mobile Services

Mobile services involve taking your business to the customer and providing services such as pet grooming, landscaping, heavy lifting, and more. 

To get started, gather the proper equipment, such as cargo straps, ramps, and any other necessary items. Decide on a flat rate or hourly fee for your services, and consider potential customers in your area. 

If you are considering offering deliveries, research food delivery services and delivery driver jobs to get an idea of what’s involved. After weighing the pros and cons of each, you can then decide which type of delivery suits you best.

How To Make Money With a Cargo Van

If you are interested in earning money with your cargo van, here are the steps you can take to get started on the right path:

Step 1: Consider Your Options

When exploring how to make money with a cargo van, you’ll come across a variety of options to choose from. From delivering packages to people to transporting a pet grooming business, there are a number of potential ways to generate extra money.

Before diving in, it’s important to conduct some research on your local market to identify the services that are in demand and to understand the legal requirements of running a small business.

Additionally, you should evaluate the types of services you can offer with your cargo van. For example, if you have access to heavy-lifting equipment, you may be able to offer a delivery service or even rent out your van for larger items.

Also, think about potential customers and whether a flat-rate or per-mile fee would be more beneficial. Lastly, if providing deliveries, make sure you have cargo straps and other necessary materials to ensure your cargo is safe.

Step 2: Create a Business Plan

To transform your cargo van concept into a profitable venture, it’s crucial to develop a comprehensive business plan. This should include key information such as the services you intend to offer, the necessary equipment, pricing strategies, target market, and incidental costs. 

You’ll also need to consider if you will be hiring independent contractors to help you with deliveries or if you’ll be doing all the work yourself. This is a crucial step to ensuring the success of your cargo van business.

Lastly, be sure to research the laws and regulations in your area to ensure you are compliant with all the needed requirements.

Step 3: Market Your Business

The success of your new cargo van business depends on your marketing effort. Start by creating a website and social media accounts to showcase your services. Utilize search engine optimization (SEO) to make sure your business is visible to potential customers, and use paid advertisements to reach a wider audience.

Some even use direct mail campaigns to promote their services. They also look for other creative ways to reach out to people in the local area.

Be sure to list your services, fees, and any special features your business offers. It’s also a good idea to offer special discounts or incentives to attract more customers.

Networking with other local businesses can be a great way to market your services. Finally, don’t forget word-of-mouth. Ask customers to spread the word and let others know about your cargo van business.

Step 4: Stay Organized

Maintaining organization is essential for the smooth operation of any profitable cargo van business, big or small. It is also important to have the appropriate equipment and to be knowledgeable about its proper use.

Equipment such as cargo straps, blankets, and trolleys can be employed to ensure the safe and secure transportation of goods. Make sure you keep track of the types of deliveries you do, how much you charge, and the average trip cost.

Of course, you should also keep track of your potential customers and follow up with them regularly to ensure they are satisfied and that you have repeat business. Finally, be sure to follow the routine maintenance requirements of your van and keep up with all necessary repairs.

Step 5: Track Your Earnings

Once you have your business plan in place and have begun to market your services, you will need to keep track of your earnings. This allows you to monitor your progress and determine if you are achieving your goals. 

You will also need to keep track of expenses, such as fuel and maintenance costs, to ensure that your business is profitable. Keeping accurate records is essential for any business, and it can help you make informed decisions about the types of jobs you accept and the rate you charge for them.

Additionally, tracking your earnings will help you identify potential customers as well as lucrative business opportunities.

Making Money With Your Van

With the right research, preparation, and dedication, you can create a successful cargo van business that yields a steady income. Whether you choose to deliver goods, provide mobile services, or start a delivery business, you can make a great living as a cargo van business owner.

Remember to obtain the necessary qualifications, plan your business carefully, market yourself efficiently, and stay organized. By having the right attitude, you can create a lucrative business and enjoy the many benefits of self-employment.

If you are looking for ways to make extra money, Turo can be a great way to turn your van into a source of passive income.

Turo is a car-sharing company that allows you to rent out your van for extra cash. It is the world’s largest peer-to-peer car rental marketplace, where you can list your van for rent and connect with travelers looking for a unique and convenient way to travel.

Want to learn how to make money on Turo with your van? Below, we’ll talk about the basics of the platform, what you need to get started, and how to maximize your earnings.

What Is Turo?

As a vehicle owner, you can take advantage of the Turo platform to make some extra money. Whether you’re looking for a passive income stream or if you just have a van that you’re not using, you can use the platform to earn money.

With Turo, you have the advantage of being able to list your van as an individual, as opposed to other rental companies like Hertz or Enterprise. It also offers trip price protection and a user experience guarantee so that both you and your renters have a great experience.

What we like most about Turo is that it lets you set your own rates and even a daily rate, allowing you to earn more money for longer rentals. By partnering with Turo, you don’t have to worry about the hassle of managing a rental business.

The platform offers liability insurance so that you can feel secure that your van is protected while it’s being rented out. Turo also gives vehicle owners the opportunity to purchase physical damage insurance to provide additional insurance protection. 

Liberty Mutual offers insurance plans specifically designed for rental vehicles, so you can rest assured your van is adequately protected while it’s out on the road. You can choose from a variety of insurance options to make sure your personal insurance is not affected by your rental business.

What Are the Benefits of Using Turo?

Using Turo to make money with your van comes with the following benefits:

• Create a passive income stream by setting your own rates
• Make more money than with traditional rental companies
• Liability insurance from Liberty Mutual
• User experience designed to make it easy to make money
• Automatically collect payment and transfer it to you
• Physical Damage Protection in case of any damage to your van
• Variety of insurance options to choose from for the best coverage

Getting Ready to List Your Van

As with any business venture, you need to plan and prepare before you can push through with your cargo van business idea.

Step 1: Set Your Rates

Setting your rates for renting out your van is an important part of the process. With Turo, you have the option to set your own daily, weekly, or monthly rates. This makes it possible to earn more than with traditional rental companies.

It’s important to keep in mind that the rate you set should cover your liability insurance and other costs associated with renting your vehicle. Fortunately, Liberty Mutual offers an insurance plan specifically for Turo users.

While Turo offers insurance plans with Liberty Mutual, you can also use your personal insurance options instead. That way, you can protect yourself and your vehicle in case of any physical damage.

When setting your rates, you’ll also want to factor in the price of the trip and the user experience. You can also set other fees like cleaning fees. Once you’ve decided on a daily rate, you can move on to the next step.

Step 2: Create Your Listing

Before you can start making money on Turo, you need to create your listing. Provide as much information as possible about your van, including its make, model, year, and features. You will also need to upload photos to your listing to help users get an idea of what it looks like.

Step 3: Prepare Your Van

Of course, you need to make sure your van is in the best possible condition. Pay special attention to safety, as Turo requires all vehicles to pass a safety inspection.

You can only provide a good user experience if your van is clean and stocked with the basics, such as a first-aid kit, jumper cables, and a tire jack.

Last but not least, make sure you have the necessary documents on hand. This includes the vehicle identification number, proof of ownership, and personal insurance for the vehicle in case of physical damage.

Completing the Verification Process

After listing your van, you will need to complete the Turo verification process. This process is designed to ensure the safety of both the vehicle owners and the renters. As such, it will require you to upload a driver’s license, verify your phone number, and provide proof of insurance.

Step 1: Upload a Driver’s License

Uploading a driver’s license helps Turo verify the identity of drivers to provide extra security and peace of mind to vehicle owners. To upload a driver’s license, drivers need to provide a valid license issued by the state they live in.

After that, Turo will review the information and approve the driver’s license for use. Once approved, drivers can start booking vehicles and start making extra money with Turo.

Step 2: Verify Your Phone Number

Verifying your phone number is a straightforward process. Upload a photo of your driver’s license, and then enter your phone number for a code that Turo will send you. Once you enter the code and click Submit, your phone number will be verified, and you’ll be ready to start earning money on Turo.

Step 3: Provide Proof of Insurance

There are a few insurance options for vehicle owners, so make sure to research and find the best plan for you. A valid insurance policy must include liability insurance, physical damage insurance, and personal injury protection for the rental vehicle.

If you are located in San Francisco, you can purchase the Liberty Mutual Turo protection plan to provide the necessary coverage. You can also use your personal insurer to provide insurance protection for your van.

Whichever option you choose, make sure it meets Turo’s minimum requirements and provides the best user experience. 

Making Money With Turo

After completing the verification process and putting up your listing, you can start making money. To make sure you’re on top of things, remember to pay attention to the following steps:

Step 1: Track Your Earnings

Once your van is listed, you can track your earnings through the Turo dashboard. You will be able to see the trip prices, daily rates, and annual earnings you are receiving from your rental vehicle. This will help you determine which vehicles are the most profitable and which ones need to be adjusted. 

Additionally, tracking your earnings will help you determine if you need to get additional insurance protection for your vehicle. You can also adjust your rates to maximize your earnings.

Step 2: Respond to Inquiries

Knowing how much you make on Turo is key to maximizing your earnings. To make sure you receive payment for your rentals, use the Turo app or website to track your earnings in real-time. 

You’ll be able to see the daily rate for your van, the trip price, and other details about your rental. Doing this will also help you keep track of your annual earnings to see how well your van is doing on Turo.

Step 3: Schedule Pickup and Drop-off Times

You’ll need to establish a pickup and drop-off time that works for you and your renter. Consider their needs but also make sure you’re not overworking yourself. You will also need to make sure your vehicle is available for the times you’ve selected.

Tips for Maximizing Your Earnings

Knowing how to make money on Turo with your van is more than just listing your vehicle. These tips and tricks can help you maximize your earnings and provide your renters with the best possible experience:

• Start by setting your daily rate at a competitive price. Many owners in San Francisco list their vans for over $200 a day. When setting your trip price, consider including an extra fee for additional kilometers or a cleaning fee.
• Look into getting liability insurance through Liberty Mutual or another provider. This will provide you with protection in case of an accident and will make you a more attractive option for renters.
• Make sure your van is in top condition at all times. A good-looking and well-maintained van will help you get more bookings.
• Finally, make sure all your vehicle identification documents and personal insurance information are up to date. This will help you provide a safe and secure experience for your users.

How To Make Money on Turo With Your Van

With the right approach, you can maximize your earnings and enjoy a steady stream of income with Turo. But before you do, you’ll need to obtain liability insurance, prepare your van, and complete the verification process.

Once you’re listed, remember to track your earnings, respond to inquiries, and schedule pickup and drop-off times to ensure the best experience.

With the user experience, competitive rates, and the potential for high annual earnings, Turo is a great option for vehicle owners looking to make extra money and book vehicles with safer vehicle exchanges.

Have you ever seen a car in a color you like and wished it was yours? As the old saying goes, change is the only constant thing in this world. And if that’s the case, can you change the color of your car or van?

With the right preparation and approach, you can.

In this article, we’ll discuss the factors you should consider, different types of color changes, and the pros and cons of painting your car or van. We’ll also explore some alternatives to painting your vehicle.

Can You Change the Color of Your Car or Van?

It is not necessarily illegal to change the color of your vehicle. However, laws vary by state, so research your state’s regulations before you commit to this project.

Generally, insurance companies require that you alert them of any changes you make to your car, and this includes color changes. If you fail to do this, you may face a hefty fee or even a denied claim should you need to file one.

In some states, you may need to provide proof of your paint job during vehicle registration, and the paint must match the original color. You may also be required to avoid fluorescent colors. Moreover, some states may require that you have your paint job inspected for approval.

What To Consider Beforehand

There are many reasons why someone might want to change the color of their vehicle. Maybe you want to give your car a unique look with a custom paint job, or perhaps you just want to update the color.

Whatever the reason, it is important to consider all of the factors before making this decision. It is also important to make sure you are using a high-quality paint shop that is experienced in painting cars so that you can get the best possible finish.

Additionally, you may need to repair any paint damage before you begin painting, which could cost you hundreds of dollars.

If painting your car isn’t an option, you could opt for a vinyl wrap or a vinyl film instead. Both of these options are much cheaper than a full paint job and can give your car a unique and eye-catching look.

How To Change Your Car Color

Changing the exterior color of your vehicle can be a daunting task. The process can be expensive and time-consuming, so it is important to be sure you are making the right decision. To give you an idea, here are the steps you’ll need to take:

Step 1: Find a Professional

If you’re thinking of changing the color of your vehicle, the best way to do it is to find a professional. They’ll be able to give you the best advice and recommendations for a high-quality finish.

Keep in mind that most insurance companies won’t cover you for any paint damage or for any costs associated with changing the color of your vehicle. You should also research and compare different auto shop prices and services to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.

When it comes to the paint itself, there is a wide range of colors available, from fluorescent to the exact same color as your original car or van. Paying attention to the details of the paint job is important, as a high-quality finish will last much longer than a cheap one.

Step 2: Prepare the Car/Van

After finding a reputable paint shop, it’s time to prepare it for painting to get the best results. This includes cleaning the car to ensure that the paint sticks, sanding rough spots, and filling in any dents or other body damage. 

Basically, you’ll want to make sure that all of the little imperfections are taken care of before you paint your vehicle. 

Start by washing and cleaning the car to remove as much dirt and grime as possible. Then, use a putty knife and sandpaper to remove any areas of rust and corrosion.

If the car has any dents or scratches, use a body filler to repair them. You will also need to remove any adhesive residue, such as decals, with a rubber eraser. Finally, use a degreaser to get rid of any oil or grease.

Step 3: Start Painting

Depending on the color you choose, the professional may need to apply a few coats of primer before the paint job to ensure a high-quality finish. In some cases, you can even choose a fluorescent color or other special paint finishes for your vehicle.

Make sure you choose the exact color you want, as well as the type of paint you want to use. The paint will then be applied in several thin coats, allowing time for each layer to dry before applying the next coat.

After the painting is complete, you’ll want the professional to apply a clear coat to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish. This final step will ensure your new paint job looks great for years to come.

What Are the Benefits of Painting Your Vehicle

While you can expect the project to set you back hundreds of dollars, there are several pros to giving your vehicle a fresh coat of paint. Not only will you be able to pick the exact color you want but also ensure a high-quality finish.

Here are more reasons to push through with the project:

• Increased Resale Value

Changing the color of your car or van can increase its resale value. This is because brighter colors tend to be more popular, and a new paint job can make a car look as good as new.

• Enhanced Appearance

As mentioned, changing the color of your car or van can give it a unique and attractive look. This can make it stand out from the crowd and can make it look more stylish.

• Improved Safety

Bright paint colors are more visible on the road, helping improve the safety of your vehicle. This is especially important when you usually drive at night.

• Increased Protection

A new paint job can protect your car against scratches, keeping it looking good for longer.

Are There Cons To Changing The Color of Your Car?

Before you proceed with changing the color of your vehicle, make sure you consider the following cons:

• Cost

Changing the color of your vehicle can be expensive. The overall cost will depend on the type of car or van and the type of paint job you choose.

• Time

The entire project can take a couple of days, so you will need to find alternative ways to get from point A to B while your car is in the body shop.

• Maintenance

Some types of paint jobs require more maintenance than others, such as waxing and polishing to keep the color looking fresh.

Alternatives To Painting Your Vehicle

Besides painting, there are now new methods to give your car or van a much-needed makeover.

Car Wraps

Car wraps are an effective and more affordable method of changing your vehicle’s color without paint. The best part is that since they are made of vinyl, they can be applied directly over the original paint.

Going for a wrap job means you get the flexibility to change the color quickly and easily with minimal damage to the paint job. 

You can also use car wraps to create a unique look, like using a fluorescent color, or to replicate an exact color you can’t find in paint shops. Most importantly, they offer a high-quality finish that won’t chip or peel.

Plasti Dip

Plasti Dip is a liquid-based coating you can use to customize your car or van’s color. It is a peelable, flexible, and removable rubber coating that can be sprayed or brushed on.

It can be used to change the color of your car in a variety of ways, including a complete color change, accent pieces, and various patterns. You can use Plasti Dip to create a unique look without the need for a paint job, which is a more affordable alternative.

Vinyl Film

Vinyl film is a great alternative to painting your car or van. It is a thin, flexible plastic material that can be applied to the car’s body to change its color. 

It is relatively inexpensive and can be easily applied and removed. As such, it is an excellent option for those who want to change their car’s color but don’t want to commit to a permanent color change.

That said, it’s worth noting that it won’t provide the same quality finish as a professional paint job.

Getting a Car Paint Job

Can you change the color of your car or van? The decision is ultimately up to you. Make sure you consider the factors and weigh the pros and cons to decide which option is right for you.

Whether you go with a professional paint job, a DIY paint job, or a vinyl wrap or film, beware of the potential risks and costs associated with each option. Depending on the type of change you are looking for, you may also need to factor in the cost of insurance, the time required, and other costs.

So if you read our last blog post, you will know that my wife Melanie told me we could get a super cool camper van on two conditions: It can’t look creepy and it has to be army green. Of course I went out and found a white, 2019 Chevy Express 3500 passenger van… fondly known as the “don’t get in that van with the man with the candy” van to most people. This thing is a tank and can carry 15 passengers! While it is in great condition, the stock wheels and white paint made it look creepy as hell.

We love to camp. I mean, that is the whole reason that we built an Adventure Van! But while the adventure van will carry all of us and the kitchen sink to our favorite camping spot or swimming hole, hauling our canoe and two kayaks was a different story. I mean sure, we could throw our two kayaks up on the roof rack, but we have a big ol bulky 13’ canoe that would literally kill me trying to get up on the roof rack every time.

So I have got this pretty sweet looking Adventure Van. And it has this beefy and well made roof rack on the top. One of the things that really catch your eye about the whole project is 4 old school type KC Lights. Now I had these hooked onto the roof rack when I had it installed but they were never hooked up to power. I drove this van around like this for almost a year as I was always intimidated or didn’t know where to start as far as hooking these KC lights up. I mean they came with instructions but I was hung up on installing 2 sets which is 4 lights together.