Looking for a way to make extra cash? Why not turn your car into a money-making machine? With the rise of the gig economy, there are plenty of opportunities to earn money with your vehicle. Whether you’re looking for a flexible part-time gig or a full-time side hustle, there are various options available that suit different preferences, car types, and locations. If you’re ready to maximize your earnings and put your car to work, here are some popular and legitimate ways to make money with your car.
Key Takeaways:
- Side hustles with your car offer a range of opportunities to earn extra cash.
- Ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft allow you to earn as a driver.
- Food delivery services such as DoorDash and Uber Eats provide flexible schedules and tips.
- Grocery delivery apps like Instacart and Shipt allow you to shop and deliver groceries.
- Amazon Flex offers independent contractor drivers the chance to deliver packages on their own time.
Drive for Ridesharing Apps
Becoming a rideshare driver is a no-nonsense way to make money with your car. Rideshare drivers must meet certain requirements to qualify. First, you must be at least 21 years old. Second, you need to pass driving record and criminal background checks. Lastly, your vehicle must meet the minimum age and quality standards set by the ridesharing company.
When it comes to ridesharing apps, two of the most popular options are Uber and Lyft. These platforms connect drivers with passengers in need of a ride. As a rideshare driver, you have the flexibility to choose when and where you want to work. You can enjoy the convenience of making money with your car while setting your own schedule.
A major advantage of driving for ridesharing apps is the potential to earn tips. Both Uber and Lyft allow you to keep 100% of the tips you receive from customers. This additional income can significantly boost your earnings and make your side hustle even more profitable.
Benefits of Driving for Ridesharing Apps:
- Flexible working hours and the ability to set your own schedule
- Potential for high earning potential, especially during peak hours
- Opportunity to meet new people and engage in interesting conversations
- Ability to explore your city and discover new routes
“Driving for Uber or Lyft has been a great way for me to earn extra money on the side. I control my own schedule, and the tips really add up. I highly recommend it!” – Jane, rideshare driver
Driving for ridesharing apps offers the flexibility and convenience you need to make money with your car. Whether you prefer driving during your free time or making it a full-time gig, becoming a rideshare driver is a popular choice for those looking to monetize their vehicles.
Deliver Food
Delivering food from local restaurants is another opportunity to make money with your car. Food delivery drivers pick up food from restaurants and deliver it to customers. This side hustle is especially popular because of the convenience and flexibility it offers.
Two common food delivery apps that you can consider are DoorDash and Uber Eats. Both platforms connect drivers with local restaurants and customers, providing a seamless experience for everyone involved. As a food delivery driver, you’ll have the freedom to choose when and where you want to work.
By joining these apps, you’ll gain access to a wide variety of restaurants in your area. You can explore different cuisines and satisfy the cravings of hungry customers. With the increasing demand for food delivery, there is a consistent need for reliable drivers like you.
Not only can you earn money by delivering food, but you may also receive additional income through tips. Customers appreciate the convenience of having their favorite meals delivered to their doorstep, and they often show their gratitude by tipping generously.
“Delivering food is a flexible way to make money with your car. It allows you to be your own boss, set your own schedule, and earn extra income while enjoying the freedom of the open road.”
One of the benefits of delivering food is the ability to work around your existing commitments. Whether you’re a student, parent, or have a full-time job, you can choose shifts that fit your schedule. This flexibility makes it an accessible side hustle for many people.
In addition, food delivery allows you to explore different neighborhoods and discover new restaurants in your city. You can become a local expert on the best places to eat and share your recommendations with friends and customers.
If you enjoy driving and have a passion for food, becoming a food delivery driver could be the perfect side hustle for you. It’s a fun and rewarding way to make money while providing a valuable service to your community.
Keep in mind that while food delivery can be a profitable side hustle, it’s important to manage your time and expenses effectively. Plan your routes efficiently to minimize fuel costs and maximize your earnings. By being strategic and diligent, you can make the most out of your food delivery gig.
Now that we’ve explored food delivery as a side hustle, let’s dive into another opportunity: delivering groceries.
Deliver Groceries
Shopping for and delivering groceries is a slightly different way to make money with your car. These gigs require you to drive to the grocery store, shop a customer’s list, and deliver the groceries to their doorstep. It’s a convenient and helpful service that many people rely on, especially those who have difficulty going to the store themselves or are too busy to shop.
If you enjoy the satisfaction of providing a vital service and interacting with customers, becoming a grocery delivery driver can be a rewarding side hustle. Not only do you get to drive around town and explore different neighborhoods, but you also have the opportunity to earn tips from appreciative customers.
Popular grocery delivery apps that offer flexible schedules for drivers include Instacart and Shipt. These platforms connect you with customers who need groceries delivered. You’ll have access to a list of orders, and you can choose the ones that fit your schedule and location. Once you select an order, you’ll shop for the requested items at the specified store and deliver them to the customer’s doorstep. It’s a straightforward process that allows you to work on your own terms.
One of the advantages of delivering groceries is that you don’t have to worry about passenger interactions or ratings like you would as a rideshare driver. You can focus solely on the task at hand, ensuring that the groceries are carefully selected and delivered promptly.
To give you an idea of the earning potential, grocery delivery drivers with Instacart and Shipt typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on factors such as location, order volume, and tips. With the flexibility and relatively high demand for grocery delivery services, you can make a decent income by dedicating a few hours each week to this side hustle.
| App | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Instacart |
|
|
| Shipt |
|
|
The Benefits of Being a Grocery Delivery Driver
Being a grocery delivery driver offers several advantages:
- Flexible schedules: You can choose the hours that work best for you and adjust your availability as needed. This flexibility allows you to balance your side hustle with other commitments.
- No passengers: Unlike rideshare driving, you won’t have to deal with passenger interactions or ratings. You can focus solely on shopping for and delivering groceries, providing a more straightforward and less stressful experience.
- Tips: Many customers appreciate the convenience of grocery delivery, and they often show their gratitude by tipping. Tips can significantly increase your earnings.
- Exploring new neighborhoods: Delivering groceries gives you the opportunity to visit different parts of your city or town. It can be a fun way to explore and discover new places.
Make Deliveries for Amazon Flex
Amazon Flex offers a lucrative opportunity for individuals looking to make money with their cars. As an Amazon Flex driver, you can earn up to $25 per hour delivering packages on your own schedule.
To become an Amazon Flex driver, you must meet a few requirements:
- Have a valid driver’s license
- Maintain active auto insurance
- Possess a mid-size four-door sedan or larger
As an independent contractor, you’ll have the flexibility to choose when and where you want to make deliveries. This makes Amazon Flex an ideal side hustle to consider alongside other delivery apps. Whether you have a few spare hours in the evenings or prefer to work weekends, Amazon Flex can accommodate your preferences.
With the high demand for online shopping and fast, reliable deliveries, there is ample opportunity to earn a competitive income as an Amazon Flex driver. As you build experience and demonstrate reliability, you may also qualify for increased earning potential through additional opportunities and incentives offered by Amazon.
Benefits of Being an Amazon Flex Driver
Being an Amazon Flex driver comes with several benefits:
- Flexible schedule: Choose when and where you want to work.
- Earn up to $25 per hour: With a competitive earning potential, Amazon Flex allows you to maximize your income.
- Independence: As an independent contractor, you have the freedom to manage your own business and set your own goals.
- Opportunity for growth: Demonstrating reliability and professionalism can lead to additional earning opportunities and incentives.
Joining Amazon Flex as a driver provides a flexible and rewarding way to make money with your car. Whether you’re looking to earn extra cash or seeking a part-time gig, delivering for Amazon Flex can be a profitable and fulfilling side hustle.
Wrap Your Car in Advertising
If you have a newer vehicle and a long commute, wrapping your car in removable advertising decals can be a way to make money without driving extra miles. Carvertise and Wrapify are popular companies that offer car wrapping services and pay a flat fee for your campaign. This can be a good option to supplement your income while doing other gigs.
Carvertising, or using your car as a mobile billboard, has gained popularity as a creative way to earn money. With wrap advertising, your car becomes a moving advertisement, attracting attention wherever you go. Companies like Carvertise and Wrapify connect drivers with advertisers, allowing you to earn passive income by simply driving your car as you normally would.
“Wrap advertising is a win-win situation. It provides a unique and effective advertising platform for businesses, while car owners can monetize their vehicles and offset their expenses.”
Carvertise, founded in 2012, is one of the pioneers in the car advertising industry. They have partnered with major brands such as Coca-Cola and Red Bull to promote their products on cars across the United States. Wrapify, established in 2015, offers a similar service and has a network of drivers who can participate in advertising campaigns.
How It Works
To get started with car wrapping, you’ll need to meet certain criteria set by the advertising companies. Generally, they require you to have a relatively new car (typically less than 10 years old) in good condition, a clean driving record, and a minimum number of miles driven per month. Each company may have specific requirements and restrictions, so it’s important to review their guidelines.
Once you’ve been approved, the company will work with you to design and install the advertising decals on your car. These decals are typically made of vinyl and can be easily applied and removed without damaging your car’s paint. The design usually incorporates the brand’s logo, colors, and promotional messages.
As you drive around with the ads on your car, you’ll earn money based on various factors, such as the size of the advertisement, the duration of the campaign, and the number of miles you drive. Some companies may also offer additional incentives, such as bonuses for completing certain tasks, referrals, or participating in special events.
The Benefits and Considerations
Wrap advertising has several advantages. First and foremost, it allows you to earn extra income without requiring additional effort or time commitment. You can continue with your daily routine while passively making money. Additionally, car wrapping is a flexible gig that allows you to choose the campaigns you participate in and the hours you drive.
However, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks as well. While the advertising decals are removable, they may leave a slight residue or require some cleaning when removed. Additionally, your car may attract more attention on the road, which can be both positive and negative. Some drivers enjoy the attention, while others may find it distracting or invasive.
Before deciding to wrap your car in advertising, carefully review the terms and conditions of the advertising company. Understand the compensation structure, exclusivity agreements, and any potential liability or insurance requirements. It’s also a good idea to consult with your insurance provider to ensure your coverage is sufficient for this type of gig.
Rent Out Your Car
If you have a car that sits unused for extended periods, why not consider renting it out and earning extra income? Renting out your car can be a smart and profitable move. You can join the car rental marketplace and connect with potential renters through apps like Turo and Getaround.
By listing your car on these platforms, you can make it available for short-term rentals, allowing others to enjoy the convenience of having a vehicle without the commitment of ownership. This can be particularly beneficial if you know you won’t be needing your car for a certain period, such as when you’re on vacation or if you have an extra vehicle.
Renting out your car can help offset expenses like insurance and loan payments, potentially turning your car into a valuable asset that generates income for you. Plus, you have control over the rental terms and conditions, allowing you to determine the pricing, availability, and who can rent your car.
To get started, create an account on Turo or Getaround, upload some appealing photos of your car, and provide essential details such as mileage, maintenance history, and availability. These platforms have built-in features that ensure both car owners and renters are protected, offering insurance coverage and 24/7 roadside assistance.
“Renting out your car can be a smart way to make extra money and let others benefit from its utility.”
One of the advantages of renting out your car is the potential to earn higher rates compared to traditional car rental companies. Since you’re operating as an individual, you can set your own prices and tailor them to your desired level of profitability. Depending on factors such as your car’s make, model, age, and location, you may attract renters looking for specific types of vehicles.
However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when renting out your car. Make sure you are fully aware of the terms and conditions set by the rental marketplace. Understand the insurance coverage provided and any deductible you may be responsible for in case of an accident or damage. Additionally, be prepared to handle regular maintenance and cleaning to keep your car in top condition for renters.
Renting out your car can be a win-win situation. It allows you to make money from an underutilized asset while providing others with a convenient mode of transportation. Whether you have an extra car or just don’t use it frequently, take advantage of the opportunities offered by car rental marketplaces like Turo and Getaround to turn your car into a money-making asset.
Help People Move
When it comes to helping people move, you don’t need a large truck. You can use your car to transport items and provide moving assistance, turning it into a profitable side gig. This is a great option for those who want to earn extra cash without the need for specialized equipment.
One platform that connects movers with people in need of help is TaskRabbit. TaskRabbit is an online marketplace where you can advertise your moving services and connect directly with individuals who require assistance. By joining TaskRabbit, you can showcase your skills, set your own rates, and choose the jobs that best fit your schedule.
In addition to TaskRabbit, you can also utilize your social media accounts to spread the word about your moving services. Let your friends, family, and acquaintances know that you are available to help with their moving needs. Word of mouth can be a powerful marketing tool, and you never know who might be in need of your assistance.
Helping people move can be a rewarding side hustle that allows you to make a difference in someone’s life while also earning money. Whether it’s helping someone move locally or transporting items to a new city, your car can be a valuable asset in this endeavor.
Benefits of Helping People Move with Your Car:
- Flexible schedule to fit your availability
- Opportunity to earn extra income
- Utilize your car for a practical purpose
- Help individuals during a stressful time
By offering your moving assistance services, you can contribute to the gig economy and support those in need of help with their relocation. Embrace the opportunity to put your car to good use and make a positive impact in your community.
| Moving Assistance Options | Description |
|---|---|
| Load and Unload | Assist with loading and unloading items from the moving truck or van. |
| Transportation | Use your car to transport smaller items or boxes to the new location. |
| Packing and Unpacking | Help with packing belongings into boxes and unpacking at the new location. |
| Furniture Assembly | Assist with assembling and disassembling furniture items. |
Remember that helping people move requires physical strength and attention to detail. Be prepared for lifting heavy items and navigating tight spaces. It’s essential to communicate with your clients to understand their specific needs and ensure a smooth moving process.
So if you’re looking for a way to earn extra cash and have a car at your disposal, consider helping people move. Whether you choose to use platforms like TaskRabbit or rely on your own network, you can turn your car into a valuable resource for those in need of moving assistance.
Considerations and Risks
Before diving into a side hustle with your car, it’s essential to consider certain factors and be aware of the potential risks involved. Below are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Independent Contractor Status
Most side hustles involving your car classify you as an independent contractor. This means that instead of being an employee, you’ll be responsible for your own taxes and covering your own expenses. It’s important to understand the implications of this status and be prepared for the financial responsibilities it entails.
Realistic Net Income
While side hustles with your car can be a great way to earn extra income, it’s important to have realistic expectations regarding your net earnings. Keep in mind that the income potential may vary depending on factors such as location, demand, and competition. Be cautious of exaggerated claims made by companies and do thorough research to estimate your potential earnings accurately.
Wear and Tear
Using your car for a side hustle can result in increased wear and tear on your vehicle. The additional mileage, driving conditions, and passenger handling can contribute to accelerated depreciation and maintenance needs. Consider the condition of your car and the potential impact on its longevity before committing to a side gig.
Potential Decline in Resale Value
It’s important to be aware that engaging in a side hustle with your car could potentially lower its resale value. The increased mileage, wear, and modification options such as car wrapping may affect the perceived value of your vehicle in the market. Keep this in mind if you have plans to sell your car in the future.
It’s crucial to assess these considerations and weigh them against the potential benefits of a car side hustle. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals and vehicle ownership plans.
Conclusion
Using your car as a side hustle can be a great way to boost your income and make the most of your vehicle. Whether you choose to drive for ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft, deliver food or groceries through apps like DoorDash and Instacart, wrap your car in advertising with Carvertise or Wrapify, rent it out through Turo or Getaround, help people move using platforms like TaskRabbit, or make deliveries for Amazon Flex, there are plenty of opportunities available. These options offer flexibility and the potential to earn extra cash.
However, before diving into a car side hustle, it’s important to consider the potential risks and take necessary precautions. As an independent contractor, you’ll be responsible for taxes and expenses, so it’s crucial to have a realistic expectation of your net income. Keep in mind that using your car for a side hustle can result in increased wear and tear and may potentially lower its resale value. Take these factors into account and make an informed decision that aligns with your circumstances and goals.
With the right approach and proper planning, a side hustle with your car can be a profitable and flexible way to earn extra money. Evaluate the available opportunities, choose the one that suits you best, and embark on your car side gig journey. Maximize your earnings and enjoy the benefits of having a reliable vehicle while meeting your financial goals.
