How to Start a Small Delivery Service

A small delivery service is a great choice in terms of starting a small business that you can run from home. Franchise opportunities are available as well. There are always individuals and businesses that need delivery services.

You will not have to register your business at first as you will be a sole proprietor in most cases. Starting a small delivery service can be low-cost and requires little investment in the venture itself. The upshot is that more than likely, you own much of the equipment need to start a delivery business.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Telephone All-In-one printer Computer Broadband Internet access Business cards, flyers, envelopes Office supplies such as paper, staplers, index cards, etc. Delivery truck or van Website Mailing lists comprised of businesses and residences Local Yellow Pages

1. Establish a name for your business and your business' logo that is appropriate for your trade. Once you have a final draft of your logo, take your concept to a printer, and have them print up envelopes, letterhead and business cards. After you're done with this, it's time set up your home office. Keep your files and records organized and up to date.

2. Put those mailing lists to work for you by building a list using the Yellow Pages and online databases to find businesses and residences in your area. This can be a time-consuming task, but if someone is willing to volunteer his or her time, or work for a stipend, you can generate a long and accurate mailing list. Add these addresses to a database, as this too will save you some time later on.

3. Make flyers and brochures to market your services. You could hire a professional, but with a little creativity and a solid understanding of Microsoft Word or a comparable word processing program you can make them yourself. Be as professional as possible. Head over to a copy center and run off a few thousand copies. Save the master copies for later printings.

4. Draft an introduction letter to let other local businesses to let them know who you are, and what it is you do. Be clear and concise in your letter. Print out a copy of this letter on your company's letterhead. This is a master copy for future printings.

5. Utilize your mailing lists. You will print out envelopes and use the database to automate the task of addressing the labels. Another way of addressing the envelopes is by using Microsoft Word's mail merge feature. You can print the addresses directly on the envelopes and save yourself a step. Stuff the envelopes and apply the labels.

6. Set up a website that advertises your services and gives your prospective customers another way to contact you. Include a form that will deliver correspondence directly to your inbox.

7. Leave brochures and small stacks of business cards in places like restaurants and stores in the area. This also is a great opportunity to interact with businesses owners, who they may be interested in using your delivery services themselves. Head over to grocery stores and shopping centers and post your business information there as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Check business regulations in your area regarding issues that may arise such as Department of Transportation restrictions and requirements for operating a van or small delivery truck. Also be sure to follow any guidelines about owning and operating a business in your state, county or city. Some businesses risk being closed down or and possibly fined for not being in compliance with regulations and restrictions.

[jucaduarte]

on 10/30/2009 Very interesting Idea! I may adopt it... Thanks very much!

[pridgeway]

on 6/5/2009 Excellent idea. 5*