If you have always had a thing for logistics, the chances are you are keen to break free from the shackles of your supply chain management career, to have a go at launching your own haulage company. The idea of transporting goods from A to B may seem relatively mundane to most people, but for people who enjoy the thrill of moving freight from one place to another in the fastest time possible, haulage can be the perfect industry to work in. If you already have experience in freight, you could wave goodbye to your nine to five to begin your own company, taking a whole host of contacts with you. However, there’s a big difference between working for a company and setting up your own. Read on to find out how to start a freight company and be in it for the long haul.
What Freight?
You could choose to be a freight broker or a freight forwarder. The differences are that freight forwarders only do the initial bit of transporting. Often these freight companies pick up a large item or goods from a company and store them until the company is ready to transport them onto their destination. A freight forwarder will then continue to transport the goods. A freight broker is more of a source of haulage firms and will find the best deal for the company looking to transport the goods. They don’t directly transport the goods but will have a wealth of knowledge regarding those haulage firms that specialise in products.
If you are a true haulage enthusiast, the chances are that you have freight forwarding in mind. However, don’t overlook the freight brokerage arm of any potential startup. This can be lucrative while you find your feet.
Staff
You will need lorry or van drivers to complete journeys for you. There is a massive element of trust when it comes to hiring drivers. Look for people with a clean licence, solid work record and experience. They should be adept at reading tachograph symbols and be aware of how to use one in their lorry or van. Ensure that you interview every potential candidate and get clued up on employee rights. Get insurance for every vehicle that you are launching with and know your legislative obligations. This can vary depending on where you are based. Ask a professional to look over your business plan to make sure that your firm is legally sound.
Finding Clients
If you come out of a fully employed job, the chances are you will bring some business with you. However, to find more business, it pays to be online and signed up to Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. This gives your maximum online exposure. You could also use Uber Freight and Convoy. These apps allow you to set up an online profile detailing the sort of jobs that you are willing to undertake. If you ship nationwide and your prices are reasonable, you will have a good chance of appealing to local businesses who’d prefer to use a smaller haulage firm rather than the larger DHLs and FedEx freight specialists.
Launching any sort of company can be tough. However, if you are already an experienced freight specialist, then you can hit the ground running. Follow this guide, and you can find yourself in it for the long haul.
