The Ultimate Guide to Make Money With Your Car in 2025

What should you know about earning money with your car?

Using a smartphone for navigation. (Source: iStock)

The gig economy has transformed cars from money-draining assets into potential earners. With the cost of living constantly rising, more people are getting jobs as drivers in Australia. Our marketplace data from the past three years paints a clear picture: using your car to earn money is not only accessible but increasingly in demand.

Pick up & delivery: Australia’s most consistent gig

Across yearly, quarterly, and monthly insights, the pick up & delivery category stands out as the most dependable and competitive category. Task volumes have more than doubled since 2022, while earnings per task remain strong. In June 2025 alone, the average closed price reached over $150 per job with more or less 3 offers per task, reflecting strong demand and growing interest from Taskers.

Even during pricing slowdowns, platform revenue and Tasker earnings have stayed consistent, proving the category’s long-term reliability.

Whether it’s parcels, takeaway, or retail goods, this is a high-volume category where efficiency and consistency can drive strong, repeatable income.

Transporting/taxi services: High payouts with market swings

Transport services saw a strong rise in 2023, followed by a market correction in 2024 and declining task volumes into 2025. However, per-task earnings remain among the highest, often exceeding $300, especially during peak pricing periods.

Month-on-month data shows that while task volume is dipping, pricing has stayed resilient, ideal for drivers focused on quality over quantity. Offers per task also remain stable at around 3 offers, showing steady competition and ongoing Tasker interest.

This category can be very profitable, but it’s not as stable as delivery gigs. It suits drivers who can time their availability with high-demand periods or use it as a top-up to their regular delivery income.

Courier gigs: Niche category with strong upside

Couriers acting in a professional capacity represent a small but high-value opportunity. Task volumes remain low but growing steadily, more than tripling between 2022 and 2024. Tasker offers surged to 5+ per job in some months, and even with pricing dips, many tasks continued to pay over $130–$140.

Courier services are ideal for Taskers with flexible schedules and a professional setup. The tasks are limited, but the value per job can be high, making this a smart supplemental income stream.

Essential skills to get started and make money using your car in Australia 

Driving in heavy rain. (Source: iStock)

Essential skills

Driving for a living might sound simple, but to actually earn extra money with your car and keep the income flowing, there’s more to it than just having a licence. While you won’t always need formal driving lessons to build these habits, the skills below will help you stay safe, avoid penalties, and get consistent five-star ratings.

Safe and defensive driving skills and habits

Your driving style affects more than just your arrival time. It affects your earnings, safety, and platform status. Ridesharing apps often monitor driver behaviour through accident reports, cancellations, and rider feedback. A single reckless trip could get your account suspended or deactivated.

Defensive driving means anticipating hazards, keeping safe distances, and staying cool in traffic. It’s especially important if you’re transporting fragile goods. Bonus: a clean driving record often means lower insurance premiums—a big win when you're paying for private hire or courier cover.

Good interpersonal skills

Being friendly, clear, and professional goes a long way for rideshare and delivery jobs. Think: polite greetings, status updates, and respecting people’s time and property.

Whether you're dropping off a package or giving someone a lift to the airport, a good impression often leads to repeat bookings, better tips, and glowing reviews.

Time management

The best gig drivers know how to work efficiently. Time management helps you line up jobs across different apps, take advantage of peak pricing, and avoid late arrivals that could hurt your reliability score.

Good navigation and route planning

Apps can help with navigation, especially if you’re not familiar with the area or your destination. Still, it’s essential to know your way around nearby areas and pay attention to road signs for unexpected road closures to plan ahead. Good route planning keeps you from getting lost, stuck in traffic, or taking a wrong turn into a zone that charges fees.

For drivers working on logistics, route planning also means avoiding narrow lanes, low bridges, or tricky loading spots, especially with larger or delicate items.

Basic vehicle troubleshooting

When your car is your job, every breakdown costs you money. Learning how to check your oil, change a tyre, jump-start a battery, or spot a warning light can save you time and stress.

Delivery and rideshare platforms won’t cover missed trips due to mechanical issues. Being self-reliant keeps you on the road and in control of your income.

Basic digital literacy 

Every gig platform runs on apps. If you want to make money with your car, you'll need to know how to install, navigate, and update them confidently.

You’ll also need to communicate clearly using in-app messaging, upload documents, understand your ratings, and respond to alerts about incentives or safety. 

How to prepare and build your car-based income stream

A passenger getting into the vehicle. (Source: iStock)

Knowing how to earn money with your car is one thing. Actually getting started is another. To turn your vehicle into a steady income stream, you’ll need to make a few decisions and tick off some setup steps first.

1. Decide how you want to use your car 

Start by figuring out what kind of work makes the most sense for your schedule, vehicle and skills. 

If you've got a clean, comfortable sedan or SUV, rideshare through Uber, Ola, or Shebah (female-only rideshare) might be a good fit. Got a ute, van, or vehicle with larger boot space? Look into moving services or courier services through Airtasker or Sherpa.

If you’d rather keep things low-contact, parcel drop-offs through Zoom2u or Amazon Flex offer flexibility without too much interaction. You can even think about how to make money by advertising on your car. For those with more time and a customer-friendly approach, jobs like pet transport, airport runs, or wine tours suit them better.

The goal is to match the work to how hands-on you want to be and what your car can handle.

2. Get your paperwork and legal documents in order

Before you can legally start, make sure your driving licence is valid and up to date. Most platforms require a full, unrestricted C-class licence held for at least 12 months. 

Requirements vary by state and service type:

• NSW: For rideshare, you’ll need a Passenger Transport Licence Code (PTLC) via Service NSW

• VIC: Register as a Commercial Passenger Vehicle Driver through Commercial Passenger Vehicles Victoria (CPVV)

• QLD: Apply for a Driver Authorisation (DA) through the Department of Transport and Main Roads

• Other states: Check with your local transport authority for similar requirements

You’ll also need to sort your insurance based on the type of work you’ll do. Standard cover won’t cut it—you’ll need specific insurance for commercial use. Platforms like Uber offer limited third-party coverage, but this may only apply while on a job.

For most delivery and courier work, you’ll need an Australian Business Number (ABN). Some services also require a recent police check.

3. Prepare and/or upgrade your vehicle

Your car needs to be reliable, efficient, and ready for the type of work you’re taking on. For example, if you’re trying to earn money from car advertising, you have to make sure that your car’s paint and body are flawless. You should also conduct a full-service check before starting:

• Check tyre tread depth and inflation

• Ensure brakes are responsive and quiet

• Top up oil, coolant, and fluids

• Verify all lights and indicators are functioning properly

• Test your battery to ensure reliability for long days

• Have any necessary repairs performed

Stock up on required tools and equipment as well:

• Phone mount and in-car charger: Required by most platforms for navigation safety

• Dashcam: Recommended for rideshare and delivery (liability protection)

• Insulated bags: Required for food delivery platforms

• Straps, trolley, and blankets: Necessary for Airtasker moving jobs or large item transport

• Tracking app or signage: Sometimes needed for courier work

Lastly, keep your car clean inside and out. Even car upholstery matters! After all, passengers and renters expect a tidy ride. Plus, food and pet transport require even higher hygiene standards.

4. Think about your business model

There are plenty of ways to earn with your car in Australia, but not all will suit your goals or lifestyle. Some people stick to one platform, while others mix rideshare, delivery, and task-based apps to maximise income.

Choose your income style:

• On-demand jobs: Food and parcel delivery apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Menulog are best for ad-hoc work. Use multiple apps to stack jobs and avoid idle time.

• Scheduled or pre-booked gigs: Platforms like Sherpa and Airtasker let you schedule in advance. These are ideal if you prefer structure or larger gigs like weddings or wine tours.

Track your income and expenses using a simple spreadsheet or apps for mileage and fuel tracking. This helps with tax reporting and calculating your actual profit after costs.

Factors that determine your rates and price your services 

Refuelling the car at a service station. (Source: iStock)

Setting the right prices to earn quick money with your car involves balancing what customers will pay with what you need to earn. Before listing your first job, consider these key factors that can affect your bottom line.

Fuel

Petrol or diesel costs add up quickly and vary based on your vehicle type, journey distance, and local prices. Use apps like Waze or Google Maps to estimate mileage before accepting jobs. Electric vehicle owners should also calculate charging costs and plan routes around charging points.

Time

Your time is valuable beyond just driving hours. Factor in traffic delays, waiting time at pickups or restaurants, and delivery complexities. A 10-mile airport run might take 20 minutes at 5 am but over an hour during rush hour.

Insurance

Standard car insurance won’t cover commercial use. You’ll need specific coverage depending on your work: courier insurance for parcels, hire and reward cover for goods, or private hire insurance for passengers. 

Vehicle wear and tear (based on make and model)

Every mile you drive for work accelerates your car’s decline. Higher mileage means more frequent tyre replacements, brake servicing, oil changes, and faster depreciation. Your vehicle’s make and model also affect pricing: larger or premium vehicles justify higher rates but cost more to run.

Platform/service fees

Most gig platforms take a cut of your earnings. Always calculate your rates after these deductions, or you might end up working at a loss.

Pricing models you can offer

• Hourly rate: Perfect for moving help or event transport, where time is the main factor. 

• Per trip rate: Ideal for airport transfers or fixed-route journeys.

• Per mile rate: Common for courier work or long-distance transport.

• Package deals: Great for regular clients or multi-stop jobs.

How to calculate your profit margins for your car-based services

Use this simple formula to track your actual earnings: 

For example, if you earn $600 from deliveries in a week but spend $90 on fuel, $50 on insurance, $40 on maintenance reserves, $75 on platform fees, and $25 on parking and tolls, your actual profit is $320.

Keep detailed records of all expenses to understand your true hourly rate and identify the most profitable jobs or platforms.

How to price your services competitively

• Start in the middle: Don’t be the cheapest or the most expensive when you're new. Aim for the middle of the market until you build a reputation.

• Add value instead of cutting prices: Offer extras like boot organisers for groceries or phone chargers for passengers rather than competing solely on price.

• Create tiered pricing: Offer basic, standard, and premium options to capture different customer segments.

• Adjust for time of day: Charge more during peak hours, weekends, or holidays when demand is higher.

• Know your minimum: Calculate the absolute lowest rate you can accept while still making a profit, and never go below it—even for "exposure" or promises of future work.

Types of car-based services you can offer

Putting luggage into the trunk of a car. (Source: iStock)

When considering how to make money with your car in Australia, you've got more options than just the obvious taxi work. Here are five of the best ways to make money with your car.

Rideshare driving

Transport passengers via on-demand apps like Uber, Ola, or Shebah (female-only rideshare) for a flexible income stream. There are a few requirements, but they’re straightforward.

You’ll need a full, unrestricted driver’s licence held for at least 12 months in most states, plus driver accreditation or transport authorisation specific to your state (detailed in the paperwork section above). Your 4-door car must also pass safety and registration checks, and you’ll need an ABN and valid insurance with a rideshare endorsement.

Drivers in Australia typically earn around $38 per hour on average, with surge pricing, referral bonuses, and incentives boosting their potential. Stand out by offering premium rides with a luxury car, focusing on late-night transport when demand is high but drivers are scarce, or specialising in a specific clientele.

Furniture delivery or removals

Help individuals and businesses move furniture, appliances, or other bulky items using a ute, van, or trailer. Platforms like Airtasker, LoadShift, and Gumtree Services connect you with these people needing help with moves. 

This is perfect if you already own a vehicle with sufficient cargo space, like a pick-up truck, basic equipment like straps and a trolley, and protective blankets or padding. An ABN for invoicing and potential public liability insurance are also essential.

Popular specialisations include local IKEA, Bunnings, or Marketplace pickups, treadmill or gym equipment moves, and end-of-lease moves or student relocations.

Long-distance private hire

Offer personalised, long-distance transport for events, city-to-city trips, or private tours of wine regions. This service is ideal for high-end vehicles, SUVs, or vans with excellent comfort and space. 

You can operate through Airtasker, private listings, Facebook Marketplace, or your own website. It’s also up to you if you want to offer fixed-package pricing for full-day or half-day trips.

Requirements include commercial passenger vehicle registration in some states (like Victoria), appropriate insurance covering hire & reward or public liability, and maintaining a professional appearance with a clean, well-maintained vehicle. 

Grocery or food delivery

Deliver anything from meals to groceries from restaurants, supermarkets, or convenience stores directly to customers through platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or TipTop. The requirements are minimal. 

You can use any roadworthy vehicle, including cars, scooters, e-bikes, or even bicycles. You’ll need an ABN, smartphone with GPS, and an insulated delivery bag, with some platforms like DoorDash even allowing operation without a full licence.

Maximise your earnings by focusing on lunch or dinner rushes in CBD or dense suburbs, using electric vehicles or scooters to reduce operating costs, or offering exclusive grocery delivery for the elderly or busy professionals.

Airport pickups and drop-offs

Provide on-time, reliable airport transportation services for individuals, families, or corporate clients. You can offer this service either as part of your UberX or Uber Premier driving (with airport permits) or independently through Airtasker, Gumtree, or social media. 

Requirements include accreditation for rideshare or hire-and-reward transport, possibly specific driver ID or permits for commercial pickup/drop-off at certain airports, and maintaining a clean, presentable vehicle with sufficient luggage space.

Stand out by offering business travel packages with return trip discounts, family transport with child seats or additional luggage space, or a premium pickup experience including signage, assistance with bags, and refreshments.

How to market your car-based services and find clients

Boxes being loaded into the back of a pickup truck. (Source: iStock)

Even with the perfect vehicle and skills, you’ll need to get the word out about your services to make money from cars. Here are the most effective ways to market yourself and find your first clients.

Freelance platforms

Believe it or not, there are now digital marketplaces and apps to make money with your car. Platforms like Airtasker connect people who need transport services with those who offer them. 

Specifically, it connects people needing things done to Taskers who can help them out for a set fee. In the case of car owners, Airtasker connects drivers to people needing driving and delivery services. You get complete control over your schedule and can offer specialised services that big platforms don’t. 

To start, create a profile showing off you and your vehicle, then bid on relevant jobs with your price. Customers will pick based on your ratings and response time. 

Job ads or postings

Use Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, and Nextdoor to promote your services locally. Make your listings detailed with examples of prices, areas you cover, and what your vehicle can handle. Update them regularly and respond quickly to messages. 

Include testimonials to build trust. Put up physical ads in cafes, supermarkets, and community centres to reach people who aren’t always online.

Social media marketing

Create a dedicated business page on Facebook, Instagram, or WhatsApp Business with a catchy name like "Victoria Courier Van" or "City Airport Transfers." Share photos of successful jobs, update followers about your availability, and post customer reviews. 

You can also join local community groups where people often ask for transport help. Use location-based hashtags to get noticed by people in your area who need your services.

Networking with local businesses and organisations

Build relationships with businesses that regularly need transport—estate agents, furniture shops, florists, and event planners make great partners. Here are some specific ideas:

• Drop your business cards at car dealerships, rental agencies, and serviced apartments where customers might need a lift. 

• Contact care homes, schools, and small shops that could use reliable delivery options. 

• Pop into local business networking events to meet potential clients face-to-face.

Word-of-mouth referrals

Make every job count by being punctual, professional, and friendly. These small touches create lasting impressions. 

If you have extra time and knowledge, start a referral programme with discounts for customers who bring you new business. Hand out business cards that people can easily pass along. 

Basically, build a loyal base of repeat clients, especially for services like airport runs where trust matters. A personal recommendation carries more weight than any advert, particularly when it comes to transporting valuable items.

Drive carefully and learn as you go

Your car doesn’t just get you from A to B. It can also help you earn real money on your own terms. 

With the rising cost of ownership, it’s smart to turn your vehicle into a reliable income stream. Whether you’re delivering parcels, offering rides, or doing airport drop-offs, you’ve got options—and platforms like Airtasker make it easier than ever to find work that suits your schedule.

It’s flexible, straightforward, and a great way to start if you’re figuring out how to earn money by driving. You set the price, choose the jobs, and build your profile as you go. Sign up and find your next job today.