How to Start a Sprinter Van Business

Starting your own business can open up a world of opportunities and grant you a new level of independence and freedom to do things your own way — but where do you begin if you want to make those dreams a reality?

What Is A Sprinter Van?

A sprinter van is a lightweight commercial vehicle. Originally produced by Mercedes-Benz in 1995, since its successful launch in Europe in 1995 and its official American debut back in 2010, the sprinter name has become a blanket term used by many to mean commercial cargo van or crew van. Many makers are now producing sprinter-style vehicles that offer similar capabilities with an array of different configurations. These include the Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster®, and GMC Savana, in addition to the Mercedes-Benz vans.

With so many makes and models to choose from, those looking to enter the freight carrier industry have various options for selecting the right vehicle for their needs. Depending on the make and model you choose, the price, carrying & towing capacity, and features will vary.

If you want to get an idea of what you can expect from this vehicle class, here are some stats of entry-level sprinter vans that can serve as a good starting point:

• Price: A new sprinter van or similar cargo van MSRP will typically be in the range of $29,000 for basic models and up to $66,000 for higher-end, luxury models. If you’re on the hunt for more budget-friendly options, you can browse used vans, speak with a dealership about leasing options, or look into obtaining a business loan to cover the cost.
• Payload Capacity: Sprinter vans have a wide range of carrying capacities, averaging from 500 lbs to a staggering 5,000 lbs for the more rugged models — that’s a lot of cargo to carry!
• Towing Capacity: Depending on the model and configurations you choose, vehicles in this class can tow anywhere between 3,000 lbs and 10,000 lbs.
• Dimensions: Light-duty vans are more compact than their counterparts and are great if you’re planning to operate in busy cities or looking to make a lot of light, successive deliveries. These generally have a height of 52 inches. Higher roof options can be up to 110.4 inches, or a spacious 9.2 feet!

Why Start A Sprinter Van Business?

For those just getting into the carrier industry, a sprinter van is a great starter vehicle — especially because they don’t require a CDL to operate. Sprinter vans are robust yet easy to control, making them a powerhouse when it comes to transporting loads while still keeping navigation in tight spaces in urban areas simple. Plus, a sprinter van’s rear and side cargo accessibility gives you more flexibility when delivering freight than some other vehicles.

Additionally, with starting prices beginning as low as $29,000, brand-new sprinter vans can be a little easier to acquire compared to new trucking trailers, which can range in price from roughly $125K to $150K. This lower barrier-to-entry can be a major advantage to those new to freight transportation.

Beyond the ease of use and affordability of a sprinter van, being an owner-operator can be a truly rewarding experience that offers you flexible hours, the chance to be part of a growing industry, and an opportunity to meet people from all walks of life.

How to Start A Sprinter Van Business: Your Checklist

Now that you’re filled in on the what and why of starting a sprinter van business, let’s get into the exciting part — the how.

Outline Your Business Plan

Planning is a crucial step when starting your own business. Before you go out and purchase a van, take some time to do some thorough planning. One of the best ways to set yourself up for success when starting your own freight delivery company is by researching the market and understanding where you want to fit in. Do you want to be the sole driver of your company, or do you want to grow to run your own fleet eventually? Do you want to operate within state lines (intrastate) or travel across the country (interstate)? How will you pay for fuel?

Certifications & Expenses

After your business plan is in place, it’s time to consider what expenses you’ll need to cover both before you start your business and as you begin transporting freight. In addition to the price of your van, you’ll need a cash flow to pay for gas, vehicle maintenance or repairs, and insurance. If you plan to hire help, you’ll also have to calculate employee salaries and supplies.

Insurance

Insurance is crucial — not to mention required — as it will cover you from any liability or damages you may experience while you’re out on the road. Monthly costs will vary depending on the vehicle you’re driving, the cargo you’re carrying, your experience, and where you’re operating. Expect to spend at least $140–$245 a month or $1,700–$3,300 a year on commercial auto insurance. You’ll also need cargo insurance for the freight you haul, which you can find through DAT’s partner, Loadsure. You can save up to 80% on costs by purchasing per-load insurance instead of getting a contract that can cause you to overpay.

Authority & Permits

Before you begin driving, you’ll have to do a fair bit of paperwork to ensure you’re ready for operation and meet local and federal regulations. This includes:

• Obtaining your USDOT number.
• Getting a processing agent to file your BOC-3.
• Acquiring a motor carrier number (MC number) from the FMCSA (this is only necessary if you plan to drive beyond state lines). This will cost a one-time fee of $300.

If this sounds a bit daunting, know that you don’t have to go at this alone. Through DAT Authority, you can work directly with our team of specialists who will guide you through the application process and file all the necessary paperwork needed on your behalf.

Finding Loads & Building Your Business

Once you’ve secured your carrier authority and the permits you need to start operating, you’ll need to find work. A sprinter van load board can direct you to trusted, well-priced freight designated for your vehicle type. The DAT digital freight marketplace is one of the biggest load boards in the U.S., giving you access to freight across all lanes with thousands of new loads posted daily.