Same-day delivery pricing needs to account for more than miles. The customer is buying speed and availability, which means a courier may have less flexibility to combine the job with other work.
Begin with a minimum
A minimum charge covers fixed effort that exists even on a short run: taking the request, reaching the pickup, parking, loading, communicating with the customer, and completing the handoff.
Add mileage predictably
Use a mileage rule that is easy to maintain. Some companies bill every mile above the minimum. Others include a small distance in a base charge and bill mileage after that threshold.
Price urgency separately
If Standard, Rush, Super Rush, or Scheduled service create different operating commitments, give them separate pricing rather than burying urgency in a single mileage rate.
Match the vehicle to the job
A delivery that requires a cargo van should not automatically be priced like a small parcel that fits in a car. Vehicle needs can materially change operating cost.
Account for stops, handling, and after-hours work
Additional stops, heavy items, inside delivery, stairs, and evening or weekend service can all add time or cost. Build those rules into the price when relevant.
Read the rate-per-mile guide, explore Qalt courier quote software, or try the demo.