Your car isn’t just a means of getting from one place to another; it can be a source of income if you know how to leverage it. Here’s how to turn your vehicle into a moneymaking machine without necessarily increasing its mileage significantly.
1. Become a Rideshare Driver
The most straightforward way to earn money with your car is by driving for a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft. This option does mean you’ll be driving more, but the flexibility and immediate income can be appealing. Remember to consider the additional costs such as gas, insurance, and maintenance, which can affect your net earnings.
2. Food Delivery Services
Food delivery apps have exploded in popularity. Services like DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats offer the chance to earn cash by delivering food to people’s doorsteps. This gig can often be combined with ridesharing to maximize your income during driving hours.
3. General Delivery Services
Broaden your delivery horizons beyond food with services like Postmates or Amazon Flex. You could be delivering anything from groceries to Amazon orders, diversifying your income streams.
4. Car Advertising Wraps
If you have a newer car and commute regularly, consider wrapping your car with advertisements. Companies pay for the ad space on your vehicle, and as long as you drive a set minimum number of miles, you can earn passive income. Just make sure the wrap is removable and won’t damage your car’s paint job.
5. Peer-to-Peer Car Rental
Platforms like Turo or Getaround allow you to rent your car to others when you’re not using it. It’s like Airbnb, but for your car. This can be especially profitable if you have a second car that’s often idle or if you live in a city with robust public transportation options.
6. Help With Moving
If your vehicle has ample space, offer your services to help people move. Platforms like TaskRabbit can connect you with individuals who need assistance with small-scale moves. A pickup truck is ideal for this type of work, but even a spacious trunk can do the job for smaller items.
Before diving into any of these side hustles, make sure you’re properly insured and understand the tax implications of your additional income. With some strategic planning and a little hustle, your car can become more than just a cost center—it can be a significant source of income.
