What Type of Vehicle Should You Get for an NEMT Business?

When starting a Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) business, one of the first questions people ask is what type of vehicle they should get. Like many decisions in this industry, it really depends on where you are right now, what services you want to offer, and what you can realistically sustain early on.

A brand-new vehicle can be exciting, but it’s worth asking whether that investment fits your current situation and gives your business room to grow.

Understanding Your Service Options

NEMT providers typically offer one or more of the following service types. The type of vehicle you choose usually determines which services you can provide.

Some providers offer:

• Ambulatory only

• Ambulatory + wheelchair

• Ambulatory + wheelchair + stretcher

Each option comes with different cost, complexity, and earning considerations.

Ambulatory Transportation

Ambulatory service is for passengers who can walk on their own or with minimal assistance. This service typically uses standard passenger vehicles that meet local and payer requirements.

Ambulatory transportation is often:

• The lowest paying service type

• Less expensive to start

• Simpler to operate

While it may be easier to begin with, it often requires higher trip volume to generate consistent revenue.

Wheelchair Transportation

Wheelchair transportation requires vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts and proper securement systems. Passengers remain in their wheelchair during the trip.

Wheelchair service generally:

• Pays more than ambulatory trips

• Involves higher vehicle and insurance costs

• Expands the types of trips you can accept

Many providers view wheelchair transportation as a middle ground between cost and earning potential.

Stretcher Transportation

Stretcher transportation is used when passengers must remain lying down during transport. These vehicles require specialized layouts, additional equipment, and higher insurance considerations.

Stretcher service is typically:

• The highest paying service type

• More complex to operate

• More expensive to insure and staff

Some providers focus on stretcher service later, once their operations and demand are more predictable.

Starting Practical and Within Your Means

It’s important to understand that having a van does not automatically mean business will come. Building a strong NEMT company takes time. Relationships with facilities, brokers, and families develop gradually, and many owners do not see profit right away.

Early months are often focused on covering expenses, learning operations, and building trust. Starting with a vehicle that fits your current financial comfort can help reduce pressure while the business gains traction.

Vehicles That Support Multiple Service Types

Some providers consider vehicles that can accommodate ambulatory, wheelchair, and stretcher transportation. While these vehicles usually require a higher upfront investment, they can expand service offerings and make a provider more versatile.

Over time, being able to support all three service types may position a company as a go-to transportation option for facilities and families that prefer working with one provider for multiple needs.

Final Thought

The “right” vehicle is rarely the newest or most expensive option. For many people, it’s the one that aligns with their current finances, service goals, and patience for growth. Understanding that demand and profitability often take time can help set realistic expectations and support long-term sustainability.

Disclosure & Resources

We are NEMT consultants who actively operate in the industry and simply want to help others connect with the right resources.

We share educational resources and industry connections at no cost. Please do not call to request resources. To receive suggested resources or submit general questions, please complete the form below and information will be emailed to you.

-Request resources or submit questions:https://www.myelitecourses.com/contact

For those seeking a more in-depth conversation, we also offer NEMT consulting services for startups and current operators. Consulting services are offered at a cost. You may request a free 30-minute introductory consultation to determine whether we are a good fit and how we may be able to assist.

-Request a 30-minute NEMT consultation:https://www.myelitecourses.com/contact

You may also choose to join our free Facebook community, The NEMT Standard, which connects NEMT professionals at all stages with industry resources, conversations, and peer support.

-Join the NEMT Standard Community (Free):https://www.facebook.com/share/g/16snXy7nUC/

There is no cost to join.