Sunday , February 9 2025

More Drivers Are Turning Their Vehicles Into Side Hustles

The gig economy has reshaped how many earn money, turning everyday resources like your car into income opportunities. Whether you’re looking for flexibility, passive income or something more entrepreneurial, a car-based side hustle could be right for you. Discover some of the most creative and profitable ways people turn their cars into money-making machines.

1. Delivery and Ridesharing Apps

While ridesharing is popular, food delivery apps amount to over $90 billion in revenue, so app-earning is a perfect way to monetize your ride. Platforms like Uber, Lyft, DoorDash and Uber Eats allow you to earn money in your spare time. You can work flexible hours, choose when to log in and get paid per trip, with bonuses for peak hours and promotions.

You’ll need a reliable vehicle, sound health and the relevant insurance. Some services require a background check and valid driver’s license. Maximize earnings by signing up for multiple apps and focusing on high-demand times, like weekends or the lunchtime rush.

2. Advertising on Your Car

Did you know you can get paid to turn your car into a mobile billboard? Companies like Wrapify and Carvertise pay drivers to display advertisements on their vehicles. Sign up, and the business pays to wrap your car in ads.

You can reportedly earn around $450 per month by driving your wrapped vehicle on your usual routes — the income depends on your driving routes and mileage. However, stick with reputable enterprises to avoid scams. Legit platforms won’t ask you to pay for wrapping services.

3. Hauling and Delivery Services

If you own a truck, van or SUV, hauling and delivery are great options. Apps like TaskRabbit, Bungii and GoShare connect you with people who need help moving furniture, delivering large items, or completing other odd jobs.

Hotshotting is another way to earn money. It involves making rush, trailer-loaded deliveries of heavy or essential loads for brands. You could deliver raw materials, less-than-truckload items, machinery or equipment to various people, such as contractors, builders and farmers.

Use your truck or SUV to haul a small trailer with heavier loads or deliver larger packages and loads like fridges and appliances from local suppliers. Your vehicle must be in good condition and have enough power and space to accommodate larger loads. Remember to factor in fuel costs and vehicle wear when calculating your rates.

4. Turning Your Car Into a Mobile Business

Use your car as the foundation for a small, mobile business like pet grooming, auto detailing and food trucking. Consider the additional equipment necessary for your idea and keep yourself mobile for a more extensive client base without brick-and-mortar overheads.

You don’t have to be “The Lincoln Lawyer,” but car-based businesses are booming. Market your services and show up reliably for side-hustle success.

5. Teaching or Guided Tours

If you have a passion for teaching or a deep knowledge of your local area, your car can help you share those skills with others. Earn a good income by offering driving lessons, conducting city tours, and guiding travelers to the local wine country or historical sites.

Ensure your ride is clean, neat and in good working order. You could also enhance your passengers’ experience with local stories and themed adventures.

Starting Considerations

While these opportunities offer exciting ways to earn, considering over a third of Americans run a side gig of some form, turning your car into a side hustle comes with responsibilities. Before diving in, weigh the potential costs and risks to ensure your side project runs smoothly.

Your vehicle may need more maintenance, fuel and tire replacements. Depending on your part-time venture, you might need special insurance with higher premiums and still have to pay taxes on your earnings. Safety and driving skills are essential to keeping your passengers and cargo safe.

Take Your Gig on Wheels

Car-based incomes abound, from ridesharing and delivery apps to advertising and mobile businesses. Whether you maximize downtime or build a company from scratch, your vehicle can help you reach your financial goals. Take control of your finances by choosing the opportunity that fits your lifestyle and start earning with your car now.

Jack Shaw has over seven years of experience writing about cars and the automotive industry. He serves as senior automotive editor of Modded and has been published by the National Motorists Association, Hennessey, Ford Muscle and more. When not writing, you can often find Jack driving across the country or off-roading.

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