Man & Van

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Discussion

e21Mark

Original Poster:

16,205 posts

174 months

Wednesday 27th August 2014
quotequote all
Am living in Cornwall and looking to buy a van but ideally need it to also provide an income. I'm not looking or expecting to get rich, but a modest regular income of circa £100 per week (after fuel & insurance costs) would be adequate. I have a disability which limits the kind of work I can do and this also means potential employers aren't keen. As I don't want to go on benefits working for myself seems the best option.

I'm thinking along the lines of buying an '06 plate VW LT van (medium wheelbase hi top) and using sites like Shiply etc to find work. I also have some motor trade contacts so will have access to a car trailer, so car transportation can be another string to my bow so to speak. I'm under no illusion that this is going to be either easy or hugely profitable but as long as it brings a employment and a modest wage I'll be happy.

I guess I'm just wondering if this is a viable idea or am I better off just searching for an employer?

I also wondered what should I be charging and how would I best arrive at a figure?

Is there any insurance scheme that specifically covers new businesses, where the type of job could vary between delivering a sofa one day and a track car the next?

Any advice or insight anyone can give would be much appreciated. I'm new to the idea of running my own business and am keen to avoid rookie mistakes if possible.

Thanks in advance.