Stuff2Send urges 30 million motorists to earn while they drive

A web site that puts motorists in touch with parcels and packages that need to go their way, has attracted 1,100 members since launch in December 2008. Now, more car drivers are being urged to join, using empty space in their cars to deliver stuff and make money for journeys they already do.

“In a recession we all need ways to make the most of the resources we have,” said stuff2send.com founder Colin Hay. “Britain’s 30 million cars abound with empty space that could be used to carry parcels and packages. To commuters, students and regular distance drivers we say this; you could be earning while you drive.”

To date, the lion’s share of ‘delivery drivers’ using stuff2send.com have been couriers. And many bulkier items like furniture, automotive parts and industrial equipment, can only be carried in larger vans.

However, since Stuff2Send began working with eBay users in February, the number of smaller items like boxes of documents, guitars, clothes and toys has grown. Now the site needs more private motorists to bid for jobs, helping themselves make money, those sending stuff to save it and helping driving down unnecessary emissions from road transport in the process.

Benefits for car owners
Registering as a delivery driver costs £11 a year. The first delivery easily pays back the registration fee as one regular Stuff2send user has found. He’s earned more than £100, from three deliveries in one month.

Benefits for those sending stuff
For senders the site is free to use and offers convenient collection times, as well as a door-to-door service. In February, Amanda Webster paid just £20 to deliver two wheelchairs from Manchester to Birmingham at a time that suited her. The cheapest commercial quote was £200.

Benefits for couriers
Net-savvy white van men are already using Stuff2Send to connect with packages and parcels, boosting income. Mick Davidson of Carrick Couriers was one of the first. “Stuff2Send put me in touch with a customer 400 miles away who I wouldn't otherwise have known about,” he said. “We both gained from the service.”

Benefits for the environment
Every vehicle journey shared with a parcel or package is one less car or van on the road. That means less CO2 and other pollutants in the environment – and less congestion. Stuff2Send also cuts down on unnecessary packaging and waste.