Amazon runs several service provider programs, each serving a different part of its business. The right path depends on whether you want to deliver packages, haul freight, help Amazon sellers grow their businesses, or provide home services like furniture assembly. Each program has its own application process, capital requirements, and operational model.
Amazon Delivery Service Partner (DSP)
The DSP program lets you start a last-mile delivery business using Amazon-branded vans to deliver packages from local delivery stations to customers’ doors. Amazon provides the vehicles, technology, and route-planning tools, while you hire and manage a team of drivers.
To qualify, you need at least $30,000 in liquid assets. You do not need prior logistics experience. Amazon negotiates vehicle leasing, uniforms, and equipment discounts on your behalf, so you are not buying a fleet outright. The program is designed to lower the barrier to entry compared to starting an independent delivery company from scratch.
Once accepted, you go through a two-week training program: one week of virtual webinars covering operations, safety, and business fundamentals, followed by one week of hands-on training at a delivery station. After training, you begin operating routes with a small number of vans and can scale up over time. Most DSP owners eventually manage 20 to 40 drivers and a corresponding number of routes. Your revenue comes from delivering a set number of packages per route, and Amazon pays you on a regular schedule based on performance metrics like delivery success rate and driver safety scores.
To apply, visit the Amazon Delivery Service Partner page, complete the online application, and submit documentation verifying your liquid assets and business eligibility. The review process typically takes several weeks and includes interviews.
Amazon Freight Partner
If you are interested in trucking rather than last-mile delivery, the Amazon Freight Partner program puts you in charge of a fleet of Amazon-branded tractor-trailers moving goods between fulfillment centers, sortation facilities, and airports. This is middle-mile logistics, meaning longer hauls rather than doorstep deliveries.
Amazon advertises startup costs as low as $40,000 with $0 due upfront for your initial fleet of trucks (typically five day cabs to get started). Actual costs vary based on your location and fleet configuration. Like the DSP program, Amazon provides the branded equipment and operational support, while you focus on hiring, managing drivers, and meeting performance standards.
You apply through Amazon’s Freight Partner website. The process involves submitting your financial information, completing interviews, and going through Amazon’s onboarding and training before you start hauling loads.
Amazon Solution Provider Network
The Solution Provider Network (SPN) is a completely different model. Instead of moving packages, you help Amazon marketplace sellers with professional services like product photography, listing optimization, compliance consulting, advertising management, account setup, or translation. Amazon maintains a directory of vetted providers that sellers can browse when they need help.
To register, you create an account on the Amazon Solution Provider portal. The application requires your business registration documents (your LLC or corporate filing information) along with government-issued identification such as a passport or national ID card. After submitting your documents, Amazon conducts a video verification call where you show the same ID you submitted during registration. This identity check is a required step before your account is approved.
You will need an established business entity to apply. Amazon is looking for companies with demonstrated expertise in the service categories they list, so having a portfolio or track record of helping e-commerce sellers strengthens your application. Once approved, your company appears in the SPN directory, and sellers can find and hire you directly through the platform.
Insurance and Liability Requirements
Regardless of which program you join, Amazon requires proof of adequate insurance coverage. For programs involving physical operations like delivery or freight, you will need commercial auto insurance, general liability coverage, and workers’ compensation policies that meet Amazon’s minimum thresholds.
For seller-facing service providers and marketplace participants, Amazon requires commercial general liability insurance covering at least $1,000,000 per occurrence and in the aggregate. The policy must include product liability, bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage. Your deductible cannot exceed $10,000, and the deductible amount must be listed on your certificate of insurance. You obtain this coverage at your own expense and submit proof to Amazon as part of your onboarding.
Shopping for commercial liability insurance before you apply saves time. Many business insurance brokers are familiar with Amazon’s requirements and can issue a compliant certificate quickly.
Choosing the Right Program
Your decision comes down to how much capital you have, what kind of work appeals to you, and whether you want to manage a physical workforce or run a professional services firm.
- DSP suits someone with $30,000 or more in liquid assets who wants to build a local delivery operation and is comfortable managing a team of drivers.
- Freight Partner fits entrepreneurs drawn to trucking and long-haul logistics, with startup costs around $40,000 and the ability to scale a fleet over time.
- Solution Provider Network works for agencies or consultants already experienced in e-commerce services who want access to Amazon’s seller base without managing vehicles or drivers.
Each program ties your revenue closely to Amazon’s operational needs, which means steady demand but also performance expectations. Amazon tracks metrics across all its partner programs and uses them to determine route assignments, contract renewals, and visibility in provider directories. Building strong operational habits from day one directly affects your earning potential and long-term growth within whichever program you choose.