The number of gig workers in the U.S. is huge, and it’s only going up. Right now the gig economy makes up about 34 percent of the workforce, but by 2020, it’s estimated to be 43 percent according to Intuit CEO Brad Smith. Many people work gigs as a type of short term job, a self-employment option or a way to turn a hobby into a money-maker.
Whatever the motivation, a side gig can be a great option to earn extra income due to offering more flexibility, variety and enjoyment than a conventional job, plus many gigs only require one thing that most workers already have in their garage: a vehicle. From ridesharing to delivery, here are the best side gigs to start now using only your car.
1. Ridesharing
Lots of people consider using their personal vehicle to earn a little extra cash by driving for Uber or Lyft. Reports on earnings vary, but it’s likely that an Uber driver could net roughly $11.93 per hour after subtracting costs to run the vehicle. In many cities, that amount may not be enough to quit your day job, but it could certainly help pay the rent as a side gig.
If ridesharing is a good fit for you, invest in a spacious vehicle like the Chrysler Pacifica that will allow you to collect bigger fairs through UberXL. The Pacifica seats up to eight people, features Stow N’ Go seats and is also available as a plug-in hybrid. Not only can you pick up bigger parties for a larger fee, but you’ll also spend less on fuel and take home more money from your fares.
2. Personal Car Rental
Many workers would rather stick it out at their 9-5 job before quitting to go gig full time, and they may not have the time to drive people around during their off hours. But while you may be glued to your office chair, your car could be zipping around town earning its next set of tires for you.
Enter Getaround. The site allows you to rent your own personal car to others when you’re not using it. Getaround offers $1 million in insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance on every trip, and they claim drivers make an average of $6,000 per year.
3. Pet Taxi Service
If you love animals and have the time, market your driving skills to busy pet owners who need someone to transport their furry friend to the vet, the groomers or even to another state. To get started, join an existing company like 1-800-Pet-Taxi or start your own pet taxi service for an average cost of $15,000-$40,000.
4. Hauling and Moving Services
Truck owners are constantly being called upon to help move their buddies to their next apartment or haul their parents’ old couch to the donation center. If you’re the guy with the truck, get paid for hauling stuff by driving for Truxx or by responding to posts on NeedTo.
5. Courier or Delivery Services
Forget being a pizza delivery guy — their median wage is only about $10.95 per hour and they often have to work at night, carry cash and deliver to high crime neighborhoods. Instead, offer your driving services on TaskRabbit or UpWork as a courier.
From taxi services to hauling and delivery, your wheels could help you earn money as a side gig no matter what you do during the day.
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