Gas prices suck and the job market is almost as bad, but a little uglification of your car or truck can net you some big bucks. Alternative marketing companies that want to plaster your car with "tasteful" advertisements are paying hundreds of dollars to the right people, but chances are you aren't one of them. There is a reason you don't see many of these driving billboards, because the companies with the money are looking for people who travel a lot and park their car in interesting places. More scrupulous types know that people are willing to do just about anything to get relief from the rising cost of transportation, so there are a lot of scams out there, too. If anyone asks for, say, a deposit or a car for keeps, that's probably not going to really happen. Most arrangements only last a few months, and pay can fluctuate wildly.
www.autoblog.comWith gas prices so high that it seems like it costs $40 just to get to the next gas station, alternatives must be considered. Rollerblades and bicycles aren't good for long distance commutes, and getting a horse might annoy the neighborhood association. One alternative: make your car into a billboard, and get paid hundreds of dollars to promote everything from insurance to energy drinks.
But according to a 2005 Bankrate article, the industry is rife with scams. Never work with a company that asks for an up-front fee, and be wary of big promises: no one is going to give you a car. Be realistic. Given high gas prices, there are a lot of people who would love to turn their cars into billboards, and your chances of getting picked are slim.
But it may be worth a try. One of the reputable companies in this field is FreeCar Media. Here's their pitch:
FreeCar is advertising supported. Advertisers choose the drivers they want based on the information you provide us. You will never have to pay a cent to participate in the program.
When you are chosen, your vehicle will be wrapped in an attractive advertisement and you will get paid up to $900 a month. Most programs average 3 months but some are longer and others shorter.
If you want to give it a shot, fill out the application here, and they'll contact you when they need drivers in your area.
www.walletpop.comCan't Afford Gas?
Can't Afford Gas?
