How to Start a Transport Business in the USA with Low Investment (2025 Guide)

Looking to launch a transport business in the USA on a budget? This 2025 guide breaks down low-cost, practical ideas you can start today — even without owning a truck.

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Introduction

Starting a transport business in the USA doesn’t require a huge budget or a fleet of vehicles. If you have a smartphone, a valid driver’s license, and some hustle, you're already halfway there.

This 2025 guide reveals real, affordable transport business ideas that are already working — and how you can start your own, step by step.

1. Start a Local Delivery Service Using Your Own Car

Estimated Cost: Under $500

What You’ll Need:

- A reliable car

- Basic insurance (personal or commercial, based on platform)

- Partnerships with local stores or restaurants

- Free apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, or Roadie

Why It Works:

Local businesses need delivery help, especially in suburban or rural areas. With platforms doing the heavy lifting, you can earn $15–$30/hour — and even grow into a multi-driver operation.

Pro Tip:

Focus on underserved areas with limited delivery options. Less competition = more business.

2. Start a Medical Courier Service

Estimated Cost: $300–$600

What You’ll Need:

- Insulated delivery bags

- Local permits & insurance

- Relationships with pharmacies, labs, or clinics

Why It Works:

Medical deliveries are urgent and critical. This niche is less crowded and pays more reliably than food or retail delivery.

Good News:

You don’t need a van — many couriers operate with just a personal car or even a bicycle in urban areas.

3. Rent a Cargo Van for Moving Jobs

Estimated Cost: $100–$200 per rental day

What You’ll Need:

- Driver’s license & insurance

- Access to van rental (like U-Haul or Penske)

- A simple online presence (website,

Facebook page)

- Ads via flyers or Facebook Marketplace

Why It Works:

Many people just need help moving a few items — not a full moving service. Rent a van when needed and charge $50–$150 per job.

4. Deliver for Amazon Flex or Walmart Spark

Estimated Cost: Minimal (fuel, smartphone, driver’s license)

How It Works:

Sign up, schedule delivery blocks, and get paid to deliver packages using your own car.

Potential Income: $18–$25/hour

Why It Works:

No need to find customers. 

These platforms provide everything — you just drive.

5. Offer School Transport or Senior Ride Services

Estimated Cost: $300–$1,000 (for insurance and permits)

What You’ll Need:

- A safe, well-maintained vehicle

- Clean driving and criminal record

- Trust-based relationships with parents or senior communities

Why It Works:

Parents and seniors often seek reliable local drivers. Once you build trust, it turns into consistent, repeat business.

Legal & Licensing Essentials

Even small-scale transport businesses must stay compliant. You may need:

- A local business license or home occupation permit

- Commercial auto insurance

- LLC registration (if expanding or hiring)

- A USDOT number (for interstate or commercial freight work)

Tip:

Check SBA.gov or your state’s Department of Transportation for accurate licensing requirements.

Final Thoughts

The best way to start is small. Test one transport idea for 30 days, adjust your approach, and scale gradually.

Whether you’re driving part-time or dreaming of a fleet, the U.S. transport sector offers real, flexible income opportunities — even on a tight budget.

Helpful Resource:

Need funding for a vehicle or business license? Check out our blog post: *Top U.S. Banks Offering Startup Loans for New Businesses* (Insert your loan article link here).