Are you looking for a checklist for starting a non-CDL business delivery service?
Delivery service is an opportunity for non-CDL drivers to make money with a box truck, cargo van, or pickup truck, or start a hotshot trucking business.
If you need a guide about starting a non-CDL delivery service, follow the below checklist.Start a non-CDL business delivery service checklist
1. Choose a niche and learn to provide value
If your non-CDL delivery business provides poor service to the customers from a niche, does it mean that there is no money to be made in that niche? Or maybe, it makes sense to look into ways of improving the quality of your delivery services so that you leave your customers feeling that they want to work with you again.
So, jumping from a niche to another doesn’t do you any good. You’re just spreading yourself too thin.
A better way to look at choosing your niche is to provide non-CDL delivery services until you get your first satisfied customers. That is when you provide value in the market. That is when you realize that you can provide better quality, work less, and make more money.
If your non-CDL delivery business works well in a niche and it gets some momentum, then you can try expanding into other niches.
2. Choose a name for your business
One of the first steps in starting your business is choosing a business name.
Choose one that your potential customers can remember and that can help them differentiate your non-CDL delivery business from your competitors.
At the same time, the business name should be simple, creative, and unique.
Once you have an idea for your company name, check its availability at your local Secretary of State website.
If it's available, register it for your business.
3. Register your business
The next step into starting a non-CDL business delivery service is registering the business.
Here are the steps to register your business:
- Select a business entity type.
- Obtain an EIN (employer identification number).
- Register your business in the State where you will conduct business.
- Acquire any required license or permit in your State.
Once the registration of your business is complete, go to the IRS website and get a tax identification number.
It provides you with the ability to finance the business, file for taxes, register for state permits, and set up bank accounts for the business.
4. Acquire vehicles for the business
An operational delivery business requires to have at least one vehicle.
The needed type of vehicle for your non-CDL delivery services depends on the type of cargo you plan to transport with it.
If you plan to deliver test results, documents, food, etc, then you'll need a small vehicle.
But, if you plan to transport something like furniture then you might need a bigger vehicle such as a cargo van or box truck.
If you don't have a vehicle, you'll have to buy one. You can buy a used one or a new one.
If you don't have the money, consider taking a loan.
Generally, the price for delivery vehicles ranges between $15,000 and $50,000 or more.
As the business grows, you may need to optimize it by purchasing blankets, straps, boxes, etc.
5. Insurance
In case of damaged cargo, insurance protects your business against claims made by the customer.
Also, having your business insured, the customer may feel more confident working with your company.
For a non-CDL delivery business, there are no requirements for insurance. But having one gives you and your customer peace of mind.
6. Marketing and Advertising
Once your business is set up, it's time to market your delivery company to local businesses.
- Add your type of service and contact information on the sides of your delivery vehicle. In this way, businesses will notice your vehicle while you'll drive around the town.
- Increase your online visibility on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Build a company website.
- Go door to door to tell local businesses about your delivery service. Talk to them in person. Tell them what type of vehicle you have, what type of cargo you can deliver, and what are your routes.
- Advertise your delivery business on Craigslist and GoShare.
Once you secure your first customers, make sure to deliver the best service to them.
That will lead to repeat customers and more word-of-mouth referrals.
Conclusion: follow the non-CDL delivery business checklist
So, if you own a box truck, a sprinter van, or cargo van, you can follow the above checklist to start your non-CDL business delivery service.
