Small moves and bulky-item transport with a van
Starting costs about $21,800 in the United States and 3,910,000 NGN in Nigeria. After 12 months, this business can bring in about $3,240 net per month in the United States and 753,000 NGN in Nigeria. The starting money comes back in about 13 months, with 45 hours of work per week.
Mundyo estimates, data as of 2026-11-02.
See the numbers for my countryFree, no account, in the currency of 250 countries.
The numbers
| Country | To start | Net per month (month 12) |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $21,800 | $3,240 |
| Nigeria | 3,910,000 NGN | 753,000 NGN |
| United Kingdom | £15,000 | £2,170 |
| Kenya | 974,000 KES | 109,000 KES |
| India | 487,000 INR | 79,500 INR |
Amounts adjusted to each country's price and income levels.
The problem
For a studio flat, a second-hand piece of furniture or a clear-out, traditional movers are expensive and hard to book.
The solution
A van with driver and helper for small loads: studio moves, furniture deliveries, clear-outs and trips to the recycling centre.
Your customers
Students, tenants, older people moving home, second-hand furniture sellers and small businesses.
How you make money
Hourly rate of 45 to 70 € for driver, helper and van, or a fixed price of 90 to 400 € per job.
Competition
Removal companies, van rental, matching platforms and informal transporters.
Who has an edge
Someone physically fit, careful and punctual, who collects good reviews and builds partnerships with shops.
The risks
Injuries and damaged goods, vehicle breakdowns, seasonal demand and cheap informal competition.
The first 3 steps
- Buy or lease a reliable used van.
- Take out goods-in-transit and liability insurance.
- Post the offer on classifieds and contact three furniture shops.
How the numbers are calculated
Example in a high-income eurozone country, at month 12: revenue €4,950 − costs €2,750 = €2,200 net per month. Revenue: 90 billed hours × €55. Costs: van, fuel, casual helper, goods-in-transit insurance, social contributions. For other countries, Mundyo adjusts the starting budget to the price level (World Bank) and the income to prices and customers' purchasing power, then converts at the day's exchange rate.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start: Small moves with a van?
About $21,800 (United States), 3,910,000 NGN (Nigeria), £15,000 (United Kingdom), depending on the country. Mundyo calculates the amount for 250 countries.
How much can you earn per month?
After 12 months, about $3,240 (United States), 753,000 NGN (Nigeria), £2,170 (United Kingdom) net per month, after costs.
How long until I get my starting money back?
About 13 months, with 45 hours of work per week.
What are the risks?
Injuries and damaged goods, vehicle breakdowns, seasonal demand and cheap informal competition.
Where do I start?
1. Buy or lease a reliable used van. 2. Take out goods-in-transit and liability insurance. 3. Post the offer on classifieds and contact three furniture shops.
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