Starting up a courier business should be simple, but it's not. First a decision needs to be made as to which way you will be trading - a sole trader or limited company. Both have their advantages and disadvantages and you will need to investigate your options thoroughly before you commence trading. You may consider starting a partnership, that may need some formal agreement in place before you start to trade.

The work you do as a same day or next day courier will be defined by the vehicle you use. The work can be done on a bicycle, a motorcycle, right up to a 18 tonne lorry. Have a look at the who your potential customers will be before deciding what vehicle to get. If you already have a vehicle, check that you can get work for it. If you live in the countryside, a bicycle courier may not be wanted, although it would be very nice to do. In the city or town centres a 18 tonne lorry would have restricted access, so check the market is correct for your vehicle.

Insurances, look into your insurance options. If you are hoping to transport high value goods, you customers will ask about insurance so make sure you have the right kind in place. You will need at least £10,000 of goods in transit insurance. Often the items you will deliver will be less than value, but quote often the items you move will be worth thousands, make sure you are NOT under insured. If you are looking at delivering second hand goods, make sure you inform your customers if they are not covered by your policy, things could work out expensive if they are not.

Becoming a same day courier or self employed courier can be really rewarding, but get it right first time so your fledgling business survives.

Becoming a free lance courier means a home based business, you will need the space for an additional office to contain your paperwork and copies on jobs that you have invoiced for. As you expand your business look at all the options, you may find if you get really busy and use sub contractors yourself you will need the use of an office a few days a week. Limit your expenses by sharing one at first with another local business or rent one at a local business centre.

Whatever you decide is right becoming a courier can be a very rewarding home based job.