Delivery services send quotes when a client wants a regular route, a one-time large or specialized job, or an event or multi-stop day. Clients typically compare base rate, mileage rules, extra fees, and reliability, so it helps to explain exactly what is and is not included.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
Create an invoice for payment collection
Upload logo
PDF will be generated with filename:
Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Distance and stop count drive the price, and a changed route is the most common cause of quote disputes.
Time-sensitive work costs more, and the quote should state what time commitment you are making.
Heavy, fragile, or oversized items may need a larger vehicle, a second person, or a liftgate, all of which change the price.
Clients should know when waiting starts being billed before the day begins.
Extras like ID checks or returns take time, and listing them clarifies what the quoted price covers.
Pass-through costs should be clearly separate so the final bill does not exceed the quote unexpectedly.
This protects you from wasted trips and from fuel price changes if the client waits too long to accept.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Local same-day courier delivery (base, up to 10 miles) | per delivery | $15-45 |
| Mileage beyond base distance | per mile | $1.25-3.00 |
| Dedicated driver with vehicle | per hour | $35-75 |
| Multi-stop route delivery (e.g., florist, pharmacy) | per stop | $6-15 |
| Rush or priority (under 2 hours) | surcharge | $10-30 |
| Wait time after grace period | per 15 minutes | $8-15 |
| Large or heavy item delivery (cargo van or box truck, with liftgate or help) | per delivery | $75-200 |
| Medical or legal document run with chain-of-custody | per delivery | $25-60 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Add up fuel, insurance, maintenance, vehicle payments, and your own time, then divide by billable miles and hours. Many drivers only count fuel and underprice routes as a result.
A lower per-stop rate at 20, 50, or 100 deliveries per month encourages steady business. Keep the tiers in writing so the discount does not become permanent when volume drops.
Give one clear price for the standard route, then list rush, wait time, and special handling as add-ons. Clients can compare easily and you are covered when needs change.
For hourly or multi-stop quotes, estimate based on realistic drive times at the hours the route will actually run, not off-peak map estimates.
A flat price works when stops and distances are fixed. If addresses may change, quote a base price with a per-stop rate and per-mile rate for changes so you are not locked in.
Seven to thirty days is typical. For fuel-sensitive or peak-season work, a shorter window such as 7 to 14 days is safer.
Most simple delivery quotes are free. For complex logistics planning, route design, or event coordination, some operators charge a planning fee that is credited toward the job if the client books.
Use the Delivery Service invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Delivery Service invoice template