The hotshot trucking business is one of the most profitable businesses in The US. Almost every logistics department is looking for a carrier company and every business requires some kind of delivery service. The chances of a trucker going out of business are very low. Moreover, the requirements for starting a hotshot business are pretty simple.
If you are considering opening a Hotshot business, here is what you need to know.
- Apply For Permits And Licenses
When you decide to start a trucking company, make sure that you take every step to fulfill the legal requirements.
You will need to get your company registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and submit a BOC 3 form. If you want to make this process smoother, consult an agent that can help you fulfill your legal requirements quite easily.
You also need to get your vehicles registered and get a USDOT number. A DOT number represents the vehicle and it will help you with traffic police and highway authorities.
- Lay Down A Proper Business Plan
After legalizing your business, sit down and formulate a business plan. If you have some experience with a new startup, it might be that difficult for you to understand what your next step should be.
However, if this is the first time you are doing business, make sure to educate yourself about this line of work. Devise a plan and set small and realistic goals.
Strategize a pathway that will help you achieve your business goals, with minimum chances of failure.
- Arrange Truck(s) And Other Equipment
A trucking company needs trucks to operate. Look at your budget and analyze the situation. You can look into the market for new or used trucks if you have enough budget to buy your vehicles and equipment while leaving some behind for other important business requirements.
If you do not have enough budget to buy your trucks, you can make a contract with another party that will provide you with the trucks and drivers. This business system is called owner-operator, where you will be the operator of the trucks, while the owner will be someone else.
If you are confident that you can repay the loan easily, you can always lease the trucks as well.
- Get A Customized Software
One of the greatest advantages of starting a trucking company, especially if it is an owner-operator, is that you can run your company in the comfort of your home. You do not need a physical office to operate your business.
Get yourself customized software. This software will help you manage your business through your mobile phone or laptop. You will be able to see your finances, new contracts, shipping status, and customer details under one platform.
Technology can help you manage your trucking company much more easily. You will not need to go through lengthy audit processes and diligence. Your company’s software will do the dirty work for you.
- Establish Yourself In The Market
Make yourself visible in the market by establishing a top-notch marketing plan. You should start by offering deals or providing services at discounted rates. Connect with the local businesses that require delivery services.
Make sure that you are providing great customer service. When your customers are satisfied, they will help you promote your business through referrals.
Find new customers by participating in trade shows and sponsoring the local community. When people see you doing good in the business, they will ask you for your services.
- Get Insurance For Your Company Assets
When you start a trucking company, your trucks and drivers are assets to your company. Without them, you can not run your company. Therefore, make sure that you invest in your company’s assets.
Get a good insurance policy for all your trucks and drivers as well. Insurance can cover accidents, thus saving you the cost of medical bills for the drivers and repair costs of the trucks. It also covers the lawyers’ fee in case your company is being sued by angry customers.
You should also consider getting insurance for the goods and cargo you are delivering. In cases of unforeseen circumstances, such as damage to fragile items, missing items, and accidents, the insurance will cover the cost.
