How to Start a Motorcycle Delivery Business in Zambia: A Comprehensive Guide

Motorcycle delivery services are gaining momentum in Zambia’s fast-growing e-commerce and mobile economy. With mobile money usage increasing by 52.8% in 2023, over 7 million internet users, and smartphone penetration nearing 75%, the demand for quick and efficient delivery has never been greater. This guide provides a step-by-step roadmap for launching a profitable motorcycle delivery business in Zambia.

Market Opportunity and Business Potential

Zambia’s transport and logistics market is projected to reach US $4.5 billion by 2029, with third-party logistics expected to exceed US $367 million by 2025. The e-commerce sector is also booming, forecast to hit US $133.7 million in revenue by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 8.9% through 2029. These trends present a lucrative opportunity for motorcycle delivery services that prioritize speed and reliability—particularly in congested urban areas.

Delivery Business Models in Zambia

Model	Promise	Best For	Key Features
Express Courier	Same/next-day delivery in cities	Legal firms, corporates	Real-time SMS tracking, pickup service
Food & Grocery	Under 60-minute delivery	Restaurants, convenience retailers	Rider fleet, app ordering, cashless payments
Last-Mile Specialist	Distribution from hubs to end-users	E-commerce, pharmacies	Route planning, inventory syncing

Tip: Begin with a niche model—like food delivery—before expanding to other services.

Legal and Licensing Requirements

1. Business Registration (PACRA)

• Name Reservation: K111.20 (clearance) + K222.20 (reservation)
  
• Company Registration: K1,300 (Private Limited) or register as a business name
  
• TPIN: Issued automatically after PACRA registration
  
• VAT: Mandatory if turnover exceeds ZMW 800,000 annually
  

2. Courier Licensing (ZICTA)

• Domestic Courier License: K10,000 (5-year validity) + 1% of gross revenue annually
  
• Local Courier License: Lower cost, for a single district or city
  
• Application Method: Online via zicta.zm
  

3. Road Service Licensing (RTSA)

• RSL Application Fee: K173 per motorcycle
  
• Identity Certificate: K265 per motorcycle
  
• Requirements: Form PSV-1, ZRA clearance, fleet & rider list
  

Vehicle and Rider Requirements

Motorcycle Registration

Each delivery bike must be registered with RTSA:

• Fees: ~K238 per motorcycle
  
• Documents Required:
  
  • Interpol clearance (K200)
    
  • Customs forms (for imported bikes)
    
  • Insurance, e-redbook, and inspection report
    

Rider Licensing

• Provisional License: K69 (valid for 3 months)
  
• Driving Test Fee: K52
  
• Temporal License: K89 (issued after passing test)
  

Riders must be at least 16 years old and medically fit.

Insurance & Risk Management

Mandatory and Optional Coverage

Type	Coverage	Recommended?
Third Party Only	Legally required, covers third-party injuries or death	Yes
Third Party Fire & Theft	Covers theft, fire, and third-party injury	Moderate
Comprehensive	Covers accidents, theft, third-party injury, flood, riots	Highly recommended

Tip: Consider bundling additional coverage for natural disasters, towing, and medical bills.

Setting Up Operations

Fleet Planning

• Start with 3–5 motorcycles
  
• Purchase Cost: K15,000–K25,000 per bike
  
• Choose: Fuel-efficient, rugged brands with available spare parts
  

Tech Infrastructure

• Invest in delivery tracking software
  
• Set up mobile payment integrations (MTN Money, Airtel Money)
  
• Use route optimization tools to cut fuel costs
  

Rider Recruitment & Training

• Conduct thorough background checks
  
• Offer training on customer service, safe driving, mobile tools, and payment handling
  

Financial Overview

Startup Costs (Estimates)

Expense	Estimated Amount (ZMW)
Business Registration	1,500–2,000
Courier License (ZICTA)	10,000
3 Motorcycles	45,000–75,000
Insurance	6,000–9,000 (3 bikes)
Tech Infrastructure	5,000–10,000
Office Space	3,000–5,000 (monthly)

Ongoing Costs

• Rider salaries: K2,000–K3,500/month each
  
• Fuel & Maintenance: K1,000–K1,500/month per bike
  
• Marketing: K2,000–K5,000/month
  
• Tax Compliance: Corporate tax, VAT, and license renewals
  

Marketing & Client Acquisition

Branding and Visibility

• Use branded uniforms and motorcycles
  
• Develop business cards and flyers
  
• Keep branding consistent across all materials
  

Online Presence

• Launch a website with order tracking
  
• Create business profiles on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp
  
• Use local SEO tactics to boost visibility
  

Strategic Partnerships

• Collaborate with local e-commerce platforms, restaurants, and pharmacies
  
• Target SMEs and retailers for regular contract deliveries
  

Final Thoughts

Motorcycle delivery businesses are at the forefront of Zambia’s evolving digital economy. With smartphone use and mobile money transactions soaring, the logistics industry is ripe for innovation. Whether you start with a lean fleet or a full-scale city operation, success lies in getting your licensing right, training your team, embracing technology, and building strong customer relationships.

Start smart, scale fast. The road to success in Zambia’s delivery sector begins with a single ride—but it’s how you ride that sets you apart.