If you’re looking to boost your net worth and earn some extra cash, starting a side hustle is a great way to do it. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right side job for you. That’s why we’re here to help.
In this article, we’re going to explore the best ways to make money with a van in the UK. Whether you already have a van or are looking to buy one, there are plenty of opportunities for you to earn extra income on the side. From deliveries and logistics to mobile retail and food vendors, there are a variety of side hustles that you can start with your van.
We’ll also cover some important legal requirements, such as the licenses and permits you need to operate a van for a side hustle. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of the different ways you can make money with a van and be inspired to start your own side hustle. So let’s dive in!
Licenses and Permits
Before we jump into the different ways you can make money with a van, it’s important to cover the legal requirements you need to fulfill before starting a side hustle. First and foremost, you need a valid UK driver’s license. In addition, you may need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) depending on the weight and type of your van.
You also need to make sure you have the appropriate licenses and permits for the specific side hustle you choose. For example, if you’re using your van for food vending, you’ll need a food hygiene certificate and a street trading license. If you’re transporting goods for businesses, you’ll need a goods vehicle operator’s license.
It’s important to do your research and find out exactly what licenses and permits you need for your specific side hustle. Not having the right permits and licenses can result in fines and legal trouble. So make sure you’re compliant before starting your side hustle.
Deliveries and Logistics
One of the most popular ways to make money with a van is by doing deliveries and logistics. There are several platforms you can sign up with, such as Deliveroo, UberEats, and Amazon Flex. These platforms allow you to use your van to deliver food, packages, and other items to customers.
The requirements for signing up with delivery platforms vary, but generally you need to have a clean driving record, a reliable vehicle, and a smartphone. You can choose your own hours and earn money for each delivery you complete. This is a great option if you’re looking for a flexible side hustle that you can do on your own time.
Removals and Moving Services
Another option for making money with a van is by offering removals and moving services. This can include helping people move house, transporting furniture, or delivering large items such as appliances or mattresses. You can advertise your services on classified websites or social media, or sign up with platforms like AnyVan or Shiply.
To start a removals or moving service, you need to have a reliable van with enough space to transport items. You also need to be physically fit and able to lift heavy objects. This is a good option if you enjoy working with your hands and don’t mind a bit of heavy lifting.
Mobile Retail and Food Vendors
If you’re looking for a more creative side hustle, you can use your van as a mobile retail or food vendor. This allows you to sell your products or food in different locations and at events. You can customize your van to create a unique look and feel that matches your brand.
To start a mobile retail or food business, you need to have a van with enough space to store your products or food. You also need to obtain the appropriate licenses and permits, such as a street trading license and a food hygiene certificate if you’re selling food. You can sell a variety of products, from clothing and accessories to crafts and homemade goods. You can also specialize in a specific type of food, such as gourmet burgers, vegan food, or a coffee van.
Mobile retail and food vending can be a bit more challenging than other side hustles, as you need to find the right locations to park your van and attract customers. But with the right marketing and branding, you can build a loyal following and earn a steady income.
Carpet Cleaning
Carpet cleaning is another side hustle you can do with your van. You can offer your services to homeowners, landlords, and businesses who need their carpets cleaned. You’ll need to invest in some equipment, such as a carpet cleaning machine and cleaning supplies, but this can be a profitable side hustle if you have the skills and equipment.
You can advertise your services on classified websites or social media, or sign up with platforms like Rated People or Checkatrade. You can also offer additional services such as upholstery cleaning, rug cleaning, and stain removal.
Dog Walking and Pet Grooming
If you’re an animal lover, you can use your van to offer dog walking and pet grooming services. You can offer your services to pet owners who need help exercising their furry friends or keeping them well-groomed. You’ll need some basic supplies such as leashes, collars, and grooming tools, but this can be a rewarding side hustle if you love spending time with animals.
You can advertise your services on classified websites or social media, or sign up with platforms like Rover or Wag. You can also offer additional services such as pet sitting, dog training, or pet photography.
To get started with dog grooming, you’ll need to learn the basics of grooming such as bathing, brushing, and trimming. You can take a course or find online resources to help you get started. You’ll also need to invest in some equipment such as grooming clippers, scissors, and shampoo. You may also need to obtain liability insurance to protect yourself and your clients.
Gardening Services
If you enjoy working outdoors and have a green thumb, you can use your van to offer gardening services. This can include mowing lawns, trimming hedges, and planting flowers. You can offer your services to homeowners and businesses who need help maintaining their outdoor spaces.
You’ll need some basic gardening tools, such as a lawnmower, hedge trimmer, and pruning shears. You can advertise your services on classified websites or social media, or sign up with platforms like TaskRabbit or Bark. You can also offer additional services such as garden design, landscaping, and tree surgery.
Mobile Photography Studio
If you’re a photography enthusiast, you can turn your van into a mobile photography studio. You can offer your services to people who need headshots, family portraits, or product photography. You’ll need to invest in some equipment, such as a camera, lighting, and backdrop, but this can be a lucrative side hustle if you have the skills and equipment.
You can advertise your services on social media or sign up with platforms like Snappr or Thumbtack. You can also offer additional services such as photo editing and retouching.
Mobile Car Valeting and Detailing
Car valeting and detailing is another side hustle you can do with your van. You can offer your services to car owners who want their vehicles to look like new. You’ll need some equipment and supplies, such as a pressure washer, wax, and cleaning solutions, but this can be a profitable side hustle if you have the skills and equipment.
You can advertise your services on classified websites or social media, or sign up with platforms like Autoglym or Detailing World. You can also offer additional services such as paint correction and ceramic coating.
Mobile Bike Repair
If you’re a cycling enthusiast, you can use your van to offer mobile bike repair services. You can offer your services to cyclists who need their bikes serviced or repaired. You’ll need some tools and supplies, such as a bike stand, tire pump, and bike parts, but this can be a profitable side hustle if you have the skills and equipment.
You can advertise your services on classified websites or social media, or sign up with platforms like Velofix or Beeline Bikes. You can also offer additional services such as bike fitting and custom builds.
Conclusion on best ways to make money with a van
As you can see, there are plenty of ways to make money with a van in the UK. From deliveries and logistics to mobile retail and food vending, there’s a side hustle for every interest and skill set. Just remember to research the licenses and permits you need, invest in the right equipment and tools, and market your services effectively.
Starting a side hustle can be a great way to boost your net worth and earn some extra cash. And with a van, you have the flexibility and mobility to offer a variety of services and products. So why not start your own side hustle today? With some hard work and dedication, you can turn your van into a money driving machine.
