How to Start a Regular Bus Service to a Nearby City: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hey, do you wish you had a regular bus service to a nearby city (within a 2-4 hour drive)? If so, here's what you can do to get a route started.

Plan the Route and Stop Locations

Check if you need local permission from the government, transit authorities, or property owners for each stop. Consider destinations like Theme Parks, Airports, Ski Resorts, Wineries, Casinos, National Parks, and College Towns.

Raise Money for Operating Days

For the first 3-6 months, raise funds for each operating day. To contract out a full-sized motorcoach bus, you'll need anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000 for the first few months if the route runs one or two days per week. Also consider speaking to local organizations or businesses near stops to help sponsor your route.

Partner with a Local Private Charter Bus Operator

Ensure they have the necessary permits and insurance to operate a ticketed service in your area. See if they are willing to work with you on a partnership or profit-sharing model to lower upfront costs.

List the Service on Ticket Resale Sites

Platforms such as FlixBus, Wanderu, and Busbud will keep about 10-20% of the ticket price but provide access to a large number of potential customers worldwide.

Consider Route Modifications for Better Connectivity

Make small adjustments to your ideal route to improve connections with other local routes, such as FlixBus, Greyhound, Amtrak, and other local and regional transit services.

Launch Your Own Website

Sell tickets directly through your website or incorporate a FlixBus ticket sale widget (which earns you a commission on any ticket sales, even for other routes).

Market the Route

Create a press release and prepare photos that you can send to relevant local media outlets (news and TV). Promote the service on social media to increase ticket sales and direct clicks to your website.

Adjust Prices to Meet Demand

Lower ticket prices if sales are slow and increase them on busy days (if possible and within local laws).

Review Sales Details and Make Route Modifications

Over time, analyze sales data and make necessary modifications to the route. If the route is successful, consider adding more departures per day, expanding the days of service, or creating new routes.

Good Luck!