An ageing design, the BR-23 Courier was initially created to serve as a reliable personnel and courier transport for the Old Republic military. However, with the rise of the Galactic Empire, there was far less call for military transports of this type, and marketing this model to the Empire was eventually stopped in favour of selling the new government personal fighter craft. The remaining stock of BR-23s was released onto the civilian market, where they provided a cheap, simple and efficient means of transportation for independent traders as well as many small courier and shuttle services.

While not as fast as some of the higher-class transports available, the BR-23 Courier is surprisingly durable for a ship its size, thanks to its military origins. The base model is still equipped with military-grade deflector shields as standard equipment, as well as outfitted with two heavy lasers for defence against fighter craft. The ship's impressive passenger capacity and the ease of which modifications can be applied make it an excellent choice for independent companies or paramilitary groups looking for a large courier ship to utilize in lieu of more expensive alternatives.