It started with one grocery run for a neighbor. Then a dry cleaning pickup. Before I knew it, I was running errands for three different families in my neighborhood and getting paid to do it. No app. No boss. Just me, my car, a simple spreadsheet, and a few trusted clients. Fast-forward to today? It’s my full-time thing—and it pays my bills.
If you’re looking for a flexible way to earn real income on your own terms, errand running is a smart, scalable play. Especially if you approach it the right way: like a mini startup with systems that work while you do. Here’s how I built mine—and how you can start yours.
Why Errand Running Works as a Side Hustle
I didn’t need a market report to tell me errand running was hot—I could feel it every time I got asked, “Hey, could you swing by the store for me?” But once I dove in deeper, the data matched the vibe: Introspective Market Research clocked the errand service industry at $19.22 billion in 2023, with projections soaring to $44.57 billion by 2032. That’s a 9.8% annual growth rate. Translation? You’re not just helping neighbors—you’re tapping into a booming, billion-dollar trend.
When I first looked into side hustles, I saw the usual suspects—food delivery, freelance gigs, print-on-demand shops. But none of them clicked. What did? The fact that every parent I knew was overwhelmed and falling behind on basic life stuff.
That’s where I found my opportunity.
1. Demand Is Already Built In
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, gig-based and service-oriented jobs are still on the rise. Why? Because people want time back. Families, professionals, elderly folks—they all need help with the little things that eat up hours.
2. No Special Skills Required
Unlike some side hustles that require tech knowledge or certifications, errand running uses skills you already have: communication, punctuality, and reliability.
- Can you follow a grocery list?
- Can you pick up dry cleaning and not mix up the bags?
- Can you show up on time?
You’re hired.
3. It’s Flexible and Repeatable
Errands don’t run on a 9–5. I stacked early morning grocery trips, mid-day vet visits, and after-school pickups around my schedule. Best part? Many clients need the same help every week. That’s recurring revenue.
Building Your Errand Empire From the Ground Up
I didn’t start with a business plan—I started with a sticky note and a favor. But once I saw the potential, I got intentional. Here's how to set your service up for success from day one.
1. Choose Your Core Services
Start with what people actually ask for. These four categories are high-frequency, low-stress entry points:
- Grocery Runs: Weekly orders, last-minute dashes, or subscription pickups.
- Delivery Help: Packages, pharmacy runs, or dry cleaning pickups.
- Pet Support: Walking, feeding, vet transport—pet parents need back-up.
- Household Chores: Decluttering, organizing, watering plants while folks are out of town.
2. Set Rates That Respect Your Time
This was a learning curve for me. At first, I undercharged. Then I adjusted based on three factors:
- Time involved
- Distance driven
- Type of task (one-off vs. ongoing)
I also introduced bundle pricing—discounts for multi-task days or recurring services.
3. Cover Your Legal Bases
Don’t let admin tasks slow your hustle. Keep it tight and legit:
- Get a basic business license (depends on your city/state)
- Pick up liability insurance—cheap peace of mind
- Track your earnings for taxes using a tool like QuickBooks or even a clean Google Sheet
Lock in Repeat Clients With Smart Marketing
Running errands is the service. But how you sell it? That’s the secret sauce. I built my client base with three simple strategies that didn’t cost a dime.
1. Make a Quick, Clean Online Hub
No need to overbuild. I used a free website builder (Carrd, in my case) and a Google Voice number. I listed:
- What I do
- Where I operate
- How much I charge
- A form to book or ask questions
2. Show Up Where Your Clients Hang Out
I posted in local Facebook groups. I shared short videos on Instagram. I even left simple flyers at kids’ play gyms and pet shops.
- Parent groups = goldmine
- Church bulletins and school newsletters are also clutch
- Word of mouth was the strongest channel once I had a few happy customers
3. Turn Referrals Into a System
I ran a “Tell a Friend” program: 10% off your next errand when someone books through your referral. Cost me a few bucks—but brought in loyal, recurring business.
Make the Job Easier With Tools That Work
The more my calendar filled up, the more I realized I needed structure. These tools saved me time, reduced chaos, and made me look 10x more professional.
1. Navigation and Scheduling Apps
I started using:
- Google Maps for traffic-aware routing
- Routific for batch errands
- Calendly for scheduling repeat pickups
2. Task and Client Management
I’m a big fan of Notion for tracking clients, service notes, and weekly routes. I also tested Trello and ClickUp—great for visual planners.
3. Simple Payment Systems
I went digital: Venmo Business, Square, and Stripe links made it super easy for clients to pay on the spot.
Make the Experience Exceptional
I didn’t want to just do tasks—I wanted to deliver experiences. Here’s what I learned about customer loyalty (and tips):
1. Be Communicative and Reliable
I text clients when I’m on the way. I confirm items. I give heads-ups if something runs late. This isn’t just professional—it builds trust.
2. Add Little Touches
I once dropped off groceries and included a $1 coloring book I saw on clearance for their toddler. They still talk about it.
- Leave a thank-you card
- Offer free delivery for birthdays
- Send “reminder texts” if you know their usual schedule
3. Ask For Feedback—and Actually Use It
Clients have great ideas. One suggested I add laundry folding to my services. Another asked for Sunday grocery delivery. I added both—and booked 6 new regulars in a month.
Ready to Launch? Your First 5 Steps
If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably thinking: “I could actually do this.” You can—and here’s how to start:
1. Pick Your Target Market
Parents? Pet owners? Elderly neighbors? Focus makes marketing easier and builds word-of-mouth faster.
2. Build a Simple Service Menu
List your 3–5 most requested tasks and package them clearly. Don’t overwhelm people with options.
3. Set Your Pricing Strategy
Flat rate or hourly? Bundle deals or subscription-style packages? Start lean, then adapt.
4. Launch on the Channels That Count
Pick two marketing touchpoints—like a local Facebook group and a basic landing page—and focus your energy there.
5. Learn and Iterate
Every task teaches you something. Keep notes. Refine your route. Upgrade your tools. Hustle smarter each week.
“Errand running is more than just helping—it’s a flexible, client-first side hustle you control. Start small, build trust, and watch a simple favor become real income on your own terms.”
Money Moves!
Here are five simple, smart strategies to start turning errands into income today:
- Bundle Your Services: Group common tasks like grocery runs and package pickups into packages to increase earnings per trip without burning out.
- Offer Subscription Options: Set up weekly or monthly plans for regular clients. Predictable revenue = peace of mind.
- Use Referral Rewards: Give discounts or bonuses to clients who bring you new business. It builds loyalty and a steady growth stream.
- Leverage Local Partnerships: Connect with pet shops, senior centers, or dry cleaners. They refer you, you return the favor—and everyone wins.
- Track Your Time Like a CEO: Use route planners and task apps to minimize downtime and boost efficiency. Time saved = money made.
Don’t Just Hustle—Systemize It
This isn’t just side hustle fluff. Running errands for others is a real business. It’s scalable. It’s flexible. And best of all, it’s personal. You’re solving someone’s everyday problem—and getting paid for it.
Start with one task. Build your base. Systemize the steps. And before you know it, you’re not just running errands—you’re running a business.
