I am starting a courier/delivery business. What do I need to do first for start up?

Question

What are the steps I need to take to open my doors?

Answer 1

You will need a nifty slogan and a uniform that does not look like pajamas. No cape.

Answer 2

The first thing you should do is have a business plan. This will help you structure your business (identify goals, set budgets). You will need to have a business plan in order to obtain funding (if you are looking for a bank loan). There are lots of templates for business plans - and there should even be one that is pre-structured around your type of business (do a web search).

I would also suggest that you find out where the local office of the SBA (Small Business Administration) is in your area. They can be a helpful resource. They can even help you with funding (provided you have some start up capital already). Also make sure that you are registered with the state in which you reside (sometimes local jurisdictions will require you to be licensed as well). You need a license in order to do business. Once you file for a license you will have to pay yearly taxes on the equipment that you have - so be prepared for this. Also, business insurance is a must. If you have an accident while doing business the assets of your business and even your personal assets (if you are not incorporated) would be at risk. Many businesses require their vendors to provide proof that they are insured - so make sure you get the proper insurance.

Also if you don't know much about accounting, look into taking a basic course on it so you can keep your books in order (or purchase an accounting program like QuickBooks). Also find an accountant you can work with. You will run into accounting questions and you will need someone to file your taxes and help you reconcile your accounts from time to time - so find a capable professional. Also make sure that you keep meticulous records. Keep a database of customers, keep all expense receipts organized (vehicle maintenance, fuel, etc).

Last but not least - provide excellent customer service. Find out what your competitors do - and see if you can deliver something that they do not. This can create a niche for your business. Treat every customer like they are your only - they are the ones that will keep your doors open.


1 - Develop a business plan
2 - Get guidance (SBA, SCORE, maybe local chamber of commerce)
3 - Get properly licensed
4 - Get adequate insurance
5 - decide whether to incorporate (legal)
6 - keep good accounting records
7 - take excellent care of your customers

Best wishes in your new venture!

Answer 3

There are pleanty of resources online and offline to help you start your own business and write a business plan.

Online:

SBA Articles About Business Planning

http://www.sba.gov/smallbusinessplanner/plan/writeabusinessplan/index.html

Free Online Business Plan Program and Start-Up Articles

http://www.diybizplan.com

They also have an overview of the process of starting a busienss and articles on the registration process with links to additional resources here:

Starting a Business Overview
http://www.diybizplan.com/default.php?act=11&catid=74&id=83

Business Registration Overview
http://www.diybizplan.com/default.php?act=11&catid=74&id=68

Business Legal Structure - Single Owner
http://www.diybizplan.com/default.php?act=11&catid=74&id=69

Financing Your Buisness
http://www.diybizplan.com/default.php?act=3&catid=75

More articles on Starting a Business

http://www.startupbiz.com

Offine:

Check with your local

SCORE Office - voluneteers who mentor entrepreneurs

http://www.score.org

SBDC Office - Help with Business Planning, Financial Projections and Identifying Loan / Financing Resources

http://www.sba.gov/sbdc/sbdcnear.html

I hope this helps

dwadholm

Answer 4

do market search, who are you competing against
document your differences
prepare marketing outline
locate your money sources
identify your monthly costs based on averages
arrange for the equipment (cars) needed
take a break to review if this will work.

file for DBA (fake name document)
get tax ID
file for corporate status (pick your board principles)
get bank accounts (company name)

set up first accounts
engage marketing
develop clients and key routes

and so on....
check with the bank, SBA, local chamber of commerce for other information.
your county tax office may have a get started hand book.

hope this gets you started

Answer 5

You will need money, a reliable truck, courier insurance for packages etc, trustworthy employees, and lots of patience because starting any business takes lots of money, patience, and time.

Answer 6

make sure you have good opening day expenses and dont let or finnances contro you and advertis as mch as you can