Moving and courier services in Malta: set up your Websta profile

What your profile page should contain

Your Websta profile is a public page that acts as your business front. It should include a clear description of what you do - whether you move house contents, office equipment, or handle small parcels. Add a photo of yourself or your vehicle if you have one, or a photo of your work space. These images build trust with people who have not worked with you before.

List the specific services you offer. For movers, this might include packing, loading, transport, unloading, or storage. For couriers, specify what sizes and weights you handle, whether you collect from homes or businesses, and which parts of Malta you cover. Be honest about what you do and do not do. Mention if you work island-wide or focus on specific areas like Valletta, Sliema, or the Three Cities.

Set your own prices for each service or choose to accept quote requests from customers. A quote request form lets people describe their job and you reply with a price. This works well for moves where the cost depends on volume or distance. Include contact details - phone number, email, and your response time. Payment happens through Stripe directly to your bank account when a customer pays online.

• Clear service descriptions: packing, moving, courier services, storage
• One or more photos showing you, your vehicle, or your workspace
• Prices you set, or an option to accept quote requests
• Contact form and phone number
• Coverage area - which towns and regions you serve

Languages to use on your profile

Malta has two official languages: Maltese and English. Most business profiles and customer searches happen in English, so your profile should be in English at minimum. Many residents and businesses in Malta speak English as their working language, especially in areas like Sliema, St. Julian's, and Valletta.

If you are comfortable with Maltese, adding a Maltese version of your profile reaches more local customers and shows you understand the local market. You can publish your profile in both languages through Websta. Choose whichever language you can write clearly in - unclear text in a language you do not speak well works against you. English alone is enough to start.

How customers in Malta search for movers and couriers

People in Malta use the Websta marketplace to find movers and couriers by typing in what they need and their location. They search by service type - 'movers', 'house removals', 'courier', 'same-day delivery' - and by area or town. The marketplace shows results for providers who cover that area. Some customers use the search to browse profiles. Others post a task describing their job, and providers like you make offers on it.

Most searches are local. A customer moving house in Valletta looks for movers who serve Valletta. A business in Birkirkara sending a package looks for couriers in Birkirkara. Your profile should make it clear which areas you cover so the search algorithm shows you to the right people. Customers also read your photos and descriptions to decide whether to contact you or accept your offer.

Legal and tax requirements for independent couriers and movers

If you work as a sole trader or self-employed person in Malta, you must register with the tax authorities and hold a valid identification document. You need to keep records of your income and expenses for tax purposes. Malta's tax year follows the calendar year.

For moving and courier work specifically, check with the Malta Business Registry (MBR) whether you need to register a specific trade name or if you can operate under your own name. Some insurance - public liability or vehicle coverage - may be required depending on what you carry and whether you use your own vehicle. Contact the MBR or your accountant to confirm the rules for your type of work. Vehicle registration, driving licence, and roadworthiness are standard requirements if you use a vehicle.

Payment through Websta uses Stripe, which handles the transaction. You receive payments directly into your own bank account. Keep records of all transactions for tax reporting.

• Register as self-employed or sole trader with tax authorities
• Check MBR requirements for your specific trade
• Confirm insurance needs with your broker
• Ensure vehicle documents are current if you use a vehicle
• Keep records of all income and expenses

What to write in your first hour

Start with a title that describes what you do: 'House removals and packing in Malta' or 'Courier and delivery services'. Write two or three sentences about yourself and your experience. Example: 'I have been moving houses and offices in Malta for eight years. I handle packing, loading, transport, and unloading. I work across all areas of Malta and guarantee careful handling of your belongings.'

List three to five main services with short descriptions. For each one, note what it includes. If you move houses, say whether you pack boxes, move furniture only, or both. If you are a courier, say what weights and sizes you handle.

Add your main contact phone number and response time. Write one sentence about your coverage area: 'I serve the whole of Malta' or 'I cover Valletta, Sliema, and the Three Cities' depending on what is true.

Upload one clear photo. If you have a vehicle with your name on it, use that. If not, a photo of you or your workspace works. Do not use a photo that is too small or blurry.

Decide whether to set fixed prices or accept quote requests. If prices vary by job size, quote requests are easier. If you have standard rates for common jobs, list those prices.

After your profile goes live

Check your Websta messages and emails regularly. Customers will contact you through the platform with questions or bookings. Respond quickly - same-day replies are normal in this trade. If someone sends a quote request, reply with a clear price and what it includes.

Update your profile if you change your services or coverage area. Add new photos as you work - images of boxes packed neatly, a full van, or offices you have moved build credibility. Keep your phone number and response times accurate so customers know when to expect you to reply.