Starting a transport and logistic business is highly profitable, but requires a lot of patience, diligence and hard work. The supply chain management industry is so big, there are plenty of opportunities available despite the number of existing transports businesses that are already creating a name in the market.
Logistics and transportation can be challenging, even with a carefully planned business plan. However, being and staying successful is possible, with the right practices and discipline in the business. Here are top 5 of the best advice and practices when starting a transport and logistic business.
Compute and Assess Essential Cost
Before starting a transportation business, one should be fully aware of the financial requirements that it will cost. A secure source of capital, enough to keep your business running efficiently, up until your first client pays for their invoice is deemed necessary. You can either secure a capital from a bank, private investors or shoulder it with your own resources, which could be a hefty amount to say the least.
On top of the initial machineries and vehicles for your business, you should also take into consideration several other costs such as
- Maintenance Cost
- Insurances
- Admin Cost
- Fuel Prices
- Licenses and toll fees
- Development and training
- Operational expense
- Security features
There are also plenty of other expenses included in the daily operations of your business. Calculate this amount prior to starting to ensure that you have enough cash flow to keep the business running up until you begin to receive payments from your clients.
Investing in the Right Vehicles
Sourcing the right type of vehicles for your business is essential because it is the blood and life of your business. If you are to handle huge transportation orders, a van might be insufficient and costly to use to perform your day-to-day duties. Having less competitive vehicles for your trucking and logistic business creates a bad impression for your clients and will make your business appear unprofessional and unequipped for the requirements of the industry.
Goods getting damaged during transit is another challenge a business may face if you pick inefficient vehicles for your business. It would be ideal to invest in new vehicles if possible, or efficient and good running second-hand trucks for your trucking business.
Although it is quite common to invest in second-hand vehicles for start-up small trucking businesses, it is essential to create a set of standards when choosing semi trucks for sale by owner operators. Check for the quality of the truck, its service records and maintenance reports to ensure that you are indeed getting the best truck for your buck. Another important aspect to consider is to invest in a type of semi trailers or type of trucks suited for the type of trucking requirements your business requires.
Completing your Business Permits, Licenses, and Insurance
Before starting any business, especially in the trucking industry, it is essential to secure a variety of permits and licenses. Permits and licenses vary, depending on the State where your business is located. Complete these requirements to avoid any possible issues during the early stages of your business.
Among the common legal requirements for trucking and logistic businesses are tax forms and business permits. Getting help from a business lawyer will help you complete and understand each of the paperwork and licenses required for your business. All these papers should strictly comply with the existing regulations of your State.
On top of your licenses, you will need to secure insurances for your business. Business insurance is the ideal type of insurance for your business. This type covers a wide variety of claims against your company. It would be best to check out the different types of insurances available for your business, as well as their coverages to ensure that you are getting the best and most complete insurance plan for every aspect of your trucking company – property damage insurance, personal injury insurance, vehicle damage insurance and worker’s compensation insurances.
Recruiting Professional and Reliable Drivers
Your trucks are the blood and life of your logistics and trucking business whilst your drivers are the veins that make the blood of your business flow. Invest and hire highly efficient, dependable and trustworthy drivers to be able to increase the productivity of the company and to ensure that every good and product entrusted by your clients to your company are all in good hands.
Your employees play a significant role in achieving success for your company. You should also look for experience, the right attitude and a good eye for judgement in your drivers and employees. Background checks are also essential to ensure that you are entrusting your fleet to drivers with commendable work ethic and experiences.
The transport and logistic industry offers a huge opportunity both for small and big trucking companies. Seize these opportunities by providing your business with the right tools, attitude, planning and execution to ensure your businesses success.
