Medical Courier Cheat Sheet
A quick-reference guide to picking dispatch software, pricing routes, spotting risky jobs, and pitching labs, pharmacies, and DME suppliers.
Jump to the GuideDispatch Platforms Compared
Onfleet
$550+/mo
Real-time tracking, POD, SMS updates
Best for: Multi-vehicle ops serving hospitals
OnTime360
$99+/mo
Courier-focused, recurring routes, invoicing
Best for: Owner-operators with a book of contracts
Route4Me
$40+/mo
Fast route optimization, low cost
Best for: Solo operators just starting out
2026 Route Pricing Benchmarks
| Work Type | Typical | Premium / STAT |
|---|---|---|
| Routed lab pickup (per stop) | $8 – $18 | $20 – $35 |
| STAT specimen run (per pickup) | $35 – $75 | $85 – $140 |
| LTC pharmacy afternoon route | $150 – $280 / day | $300 – $450 / day |
| DME inter-facility transfer | $85 – $150 / trip | $175 – $260 / trip |
Benchmarks vary by metro, mileage, dwell time, and equipment (validated coolers, temperature loggers). Always price against your loaded cost per hour.
Compliance Quick Facts
HIPAA: You are a Business Associate — sign a BAA with each covered-entity client. Handle PHI on labels and requisitions on a minimum-necessary basis.
OSHA BBP (29 CFR 1910.1030): Annual Bloodborne Pathogens training, written Exposure Control Plan, PPE in the vehicle, and Hepatitis B vaccine offer/declination for anyone handling specimens.
DOT UN3373: Most diagnostic specimens ship as Category B. Triple-packaging (primary → absorbent → rigid secondary → rigid outer), the UN3373 mark, and "Biological Substance, Category B" text are all required.
Jobs to Turn Down
- Prospect refuses to sign a Business Associate Agreement (BAA)
- Client asks you to skip cold-chain documentation to 'save time'
- Job requires transporting Category A infectious substances without proper certification
- Pricing pressure that would force you to skip UN3373 packaging
- Delivery windows that violate HIPAA minimum-necessary handling
Quick Outreach Scripts
Cold email to a lab manager
"Hi [Name] — I run a HIPAA-aware medical courier service in [City] and specialize in routed and STAT specimen pickups. I'd love to show you a two-week trial with written SLAs. 15 minutes this week?"
Voicemail to a pharmacy director
"Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] with [Business]. We handle afternoon Rx routes to LTC facilities with signed PODs on every stop. If you're looking for a more reliable partner, I'd love to send a one-page proposal. Best number is [phone]."
Handling a price objection
"I understand — the rate reflects HIPAA-aware handling, cold-chain documentation, and cargo insurance. I can offer a two-week paid trial at the same price so you can see the service before committing."
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