Useful Advice For Starting A Trucking Business

Now is a good time to start your own trucking business with a major shortage of drivers in the US. Starting a trucking business can also bring a number of unique challenges along with the challenges of starting any new business, which is why it is helpful to be aware of a few tips that should allow you to hit the ground running and find some early success with your new business venture. So, if you are thinking about starting a trucking business, then be sure to keep reading for a few tips that should prove to be useful when getting started.

Don’t Skip Market Research & Business Plan

While this may not be your typical office-based business, you will find that it is still important to spend time conducting market research and writing a business plan. This is how you learn about the industry, find ways to attract your target market and stand out from the crowd and outline your business idea. Additionally, a business plan will be key for bringing others on board, including investors.

Secure Enough Funding

Speaking of funding, you want to make sure that you secure enough to get your business up and running and to manage in the early stages. Costs are usually much lower than starting a regular business, but you may still need to secure funding for expenses such as:

• Vehicle(s)
• Equipment
• Tech
• Software
• Staff
• Web design
• Marketing

Pick A High-Quality Truck

When it comes to buying a truck or a fleet for your trucking business, you want to make sure that you take your time and never buy the cheapest vehicle that you find. Keep in mind that this vehicle will be your livelihood and will be used throughout the day, so it is important that you choose a high-quality truck that is comfortable, safe, and efficient. Additionally, make sure that you conduct regular maintenance and find a reliable garage to take the truck to.

Find Work On Load Boards

It can be difficult to find work when you are just getting started, but load boards can make it easy for a new trucking company to find a steady stream of work, and you can pick and choose shipping work that suits you. Shiply is a fantastic load board to use for a new trucking business and should help you to start making money and building a positive reputation from the very start.

Get Help With The Back-Office Work

You will find that making deliveries is only a part of running a trucking business, and there are many other areas that need attention. This will include things like accounting, customer service, marketing, and admin. You could hire people or outsource these areas to ensure that they are running to a high standard and do not take your attention away from the delivery work.

These tips should prove to be useful and hopefully help you to hit the ground running with your trucking business.