How to Start a Delivery Business in Zambia
(Step-by-Step Guide) 

Starting a delivery business in Zambia is simpler than many entrepreneurs think. You don’t need a large fleet or big investment—just smart planning and the right tools.

Here’s a practical roadmap:

1. Identify Your Delivery Niche

Before you launch, choose what type of delivery service you want to focus on:

• Food delivery

• Grocery delivery

• Pharmacy/medical delivery

• eCommerce parcel delivery

• Corporate courier services

• B2B supply or wholesale delivery

• Last-mile logistics for small shops

Your pricing, marketing, and operations will depend heavily on your niche.

2. Register Your Business

To operate professionally:

• Register with PACRA

• Obtain a TPIN from ZRA

• Open a business bank account

• Register with NAPSA if hiring employees

This helps you work with corporate clients who need receipts and formal agreements.

3. Acquire Your First Delivery Vehicle(s)

Start small — even one to three riders is enough for your first month.

Typical starter options:

• Motorbike (150cc): K18,000–K30,000

• Electric bikes: Lower operating cost, good for urban areas

• Bicycle couriers: Cheapest entry point

• Pre-existing drivers: Some startups partner with independent riders instead of owning bikes

The goal is low upfront cost with scalable operations.

4. Set Up Your Delivery Pricing Model

Use the pricing factors above to create a simple structure such as:

Example Pricing Model

• Base fee: K35

• Per km after 5 km: +K5/km

• Express/1-hour: +K30

• Long distance (15+ km): Custom quote

The key is clarity and consistency.

5. Use a Delivery Management System

Manual WhatsApp coordination quickly becomes chaotic and unscalable.

You need a platform that handles:

• Order creation

• Driver assignment

• Real-time tracking

• Customer notifications

• Delivery history

• Performance analytics

This is where Switch Dispatch helps new businesses go live quickly without needing custom software. It allows startups to manage drivers, pricing, and deliveries in one simple dashboard at only $60/month, making it one of the most affordable options in Zambia.

6. Build Your Client Base

To grow your delivery business:

• Partner with local restaurants, pharmacies, boutiques, and online sellers

• Offer discounted first deliveries

• Promote your service on Facebook, TikTok, and WhatsApp groups

• Create simple pricing sheets for businesses

• Encourage repeat customers with reliable service

Many small businesses are actively looking for independent delivery partners because marketplace platforms charge commissions.

7. Track Performance and Improve

Monitor:

• Average delivery times

• Rider efficiency

• Fuel usage

• Customer complaints

• Driver performance

With the right insights, you can optimize route planning, improve customer experience, and scale more effectively.

Final Thoughts

Delivery pricing in Zambia is influenced by several factors—from distance and fuel prices to vehicle type and labour costs. But with the right strategy and affordable tools, entrepreneurs can launch a delivery business that is profitable, scalable, and competitive.

Whether you’re starting small or planning to build a larger courier operation, platforms like Switch Dispatch give you the structure and tracking you need to run smoothly from day one.