Financial Overview

Getting Started Costs

Understand the investment required to launch your student transportation business. We believe in transparency—here's what it really takes to get started.

Typical Startup Investment

$20,000 - $45,000

Total estimated startup costs for one vehicle

Average ROI Timeline
6-12 months

Cost Breakdown

Used Minivan (5-7 passengers)
Lowest barrier to entry
$15,000 - $25,000
9-Passenger Van
Popular growth vehicle
$25,000 - $40,000
14-Passenger Van
Highest revenue potential
$40,000 - $60,000
Lease/Financing
Alternative to purchase
$300 - $800/month

Revenue Potential

Sample scenarios based on typical Charlotte-area pricing

Vehicle TypeRoutes/DayRate/StudentMonthlyAnnual
Minivan (6 students)
9-month school year
2$250/month$3,000$27,000
9-Pass Van (8 students)
9-month school year
2$250/month$4,000$36,000
14-Pass Van (12 students)
9-month school year
2$250/month$6,000$54,000

Honest Expectations

These are estimates based on typical markets. Your actual costs and revenue will depend on your specific location, vehicle choices, and operational efficiency. We encourage conservative planning.

Financing Options

Shuttlebee partners with financing providers who understand student transportation. Many operators start with used vehicles and upgrade as their business grows.

Shuttlebee Partnership Model

Shuttlebee earns when you earn. Our partnership model aligns our success with yours—we take a percentage of route revenue, not upfront fees. This means we're invested in helping you succeed.

  • No franchise fees
  • No monthly platform fees
  • Training included at no cost

Ready to Talk Numbers?

Every market is different. Let's discuss your specific situation and create a realistic financial plan for your operation.

Schedule a Conversation