The main difference between truck/van messenger services and bike messenger services in NYC is the size of the items they can carry. Truck messenger services can handle virtually any item, while bike messengers can generally only deliver small packages that can fit in a backpack and weight less than 10lbs (depending on the courier company’s rules).
Bike messenger services in NYC are not the right choice for items that are too heavy pr too large. These size and weight limitations are important to ensure the safety of the riders.
While many bike messengers can potentially carry bigger packages, doing so will put their safety at risk. The bikes will be harder to balance and maneuver, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries, as well as the risk of the item being damaged.
So, how large is too large or how heavy is too heavy for bike messengers? Different courier companies have different rules regarding the allowed size and weight for bike-delivered packages, but most of them have a limit of 10lbs. As for the size, they usually won’t accept anything that can’t fit inside a backpack. If your package exceeds the said limitations, the courier will recommend other types of delivery services.
It’s a good practice to weigh and measure your package before booking a bike messenger. Of course, you should check the company’s rules, too!
What kind of things can you ship through bike messengers?
As long as the item is small enough to fit in their delivery bags, then it will be accepted. But traditionally, bike messenger services in NYC are used for delivering documents, envelopes, small corporate gifts, and other similar items.
Just a reminder before booking a bike messenger service: Make sure the company has insurance coverage. This way, you can be compensated for damaged or lost packages in the unlikely event that such problems happen!