How to Start a Parcel Errands and Delivery Business in Kenya (On Foot or Bike)
Introduction
The parcel delivery business in Kenya is one of the fastest-growing hustles due to the rise of online shopping, small businesses, and busy urban lifestyles. People often need quick, affordable ways to send or receive items like documents, groceries, clothes, and small packages within towns and estates. By starting a parcel errands and delivery service using just your legs or a bicycle, you can tap into this daily demand with very little capital. This hustle is flexible, sustainable, and can grow into a full courier business.
Startup Costs 💰
This is one of the most affordable businesses to start.
- Capital Needed: KES 2,000 – 8,000
- Key Expenses:
- Reflector jacket and helmet (if using a bike) — KES 1,000 – 3,000
- Bicycle or second-hand mountain bike (optional) — KES 5,000 – 10,000
- Branded delivery bag — KES 1,000 – 2,000
- Phone + data bundles (most people already have this).
💡 Tip: You can even start without a bike — offering on-foot delivery services within estates or nearby businesses.
Why This Business Works ✅
- High Demand: People constantly need errands and delivery help.
- Very Low Capital: Start with just a bag and a phone.
- Flexible Market: Serve individuals, shops, and small businesses.
- Fast Cash Flow: Customers pay per delivery, usually in cash or M-Pesa.
- Scalable: Expand into boda boda or van courier services later.
Step-by-Step Setup 🛠️
1. Choose Your Service Area
- Estates and neighborhoods.
- Town centers and CBD.
- Nearby businesses, shops, and offices.
2. Define Your Services
- Deliver parcels, clothes, or food.
- Run errands like buying groceries, paying bills, or collecting documents.
3. Set Pricing
- Short distance (walking): KES 50 – 150
- Bicycle delivery (medium distance): KES 100 – 300
- Bulk or urgent deliveries: Negotiable
4. Market Your Service
- Share in estate WhatsApp groups.
- Distribute flyers to shops and salons.
- Post on social media (Facebook Marketplace, TikTok).
- Partner with small shops to offer same-day delivery.
5. Deliver Professionally
- Always be on time.
- Handle packages carefully.
- Communicate politely with customers.
Profit Breakdown 📊
Example:
- Do 10 short errands per day at KES 100 each = KES 1,000.
- Expenses: ~KES 100 (data + airtime).
- Daily profit = KES 900.
👉 Weekly profit = ~KES 6,000.
👉 Monthly profit = KES 20,000 – 40,000, depending on demand.
If using a bicycle, you can cover longer distances and earn more, reaching KES 50,000+ monthly.
Challenges & How to Overcome Them ⚠️
- Trust Issues: Some clients may hesitate to give errands to strangers.
- Solution: Build trust through referrals and consistent service.
- Weather Conditions: Rain can disrupt deliveries.
- Solution: Invest in raincoats and waterproof bags.
- Competition from Bodas: Motorbikes are faster for long distances.
- Solution: Focus on short, affordable, nearby errands.
- Fatigue: Walking or cycling for many deliveries is tiring.
- Solution: Start small, rest, and upgrade to a boda boda as the business grows.
Tips to Grow 🚀
- Brand your service with a catchy name like “QuickDrop Errands Kenya.”
- Offer subscription models (daily or weekly deliveries for offices).
- Partner with boutiques, salons, and online sellers for regular deliveries.
- Expand into boda boda delivery once income is stable.
- Register your business for contracts with companies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓
Q: How much capital do I need to start a parcel delivery business in Kenya?
A: With as little as KES 2,000, you can start on foot. With a bicycle, expect KES 5,000 – 10,000.
Q: How profitable is this business?
A: Profits range from KES 600 – 1,500 daily, depending on distance and demand.
Q: Do I need a license?
A: For small-scale local delivery, not immediately. For scaling to boda boda or vans, consider business registration.
Q: Who are my main customers?
A: Individuals, small shops, boutiques, salons, offices, and online sellers.
Conclusion
The parcel errands and delivery business in Kenya is a flexible, low-capital hustle that can generate daily profits from local errands and small package deliveries. With KES 2,000 – 8,000, you can start on foot or with a bicycle, target nearby businesses and households, and earn steady income. By being reliable, professional, and affordable, you can grow this side hustle into a full courier business.
👉 Explore more hustler-friendly opportunities in the Business Ideas Hub — with over 50+ small businesses you can start today.
