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Step 1
When starting your own skid loader service you will need a good business plan. You will also need a fairly large amount of start up money. Used skid loaders can run upwards of $40,000 and you will also need a truck, trailer and operating capital. All of this can easily cost over $100,000. You will also need liability insurance. Your local Small Business Administration can help you develop a business plan which you will need to take to your banker when requesting a loan. Depending on the strength of your business plan and personal assets the banker will either approve or reject your loan. Determine whether you want to set up your business as a limited partnership, sole proprietorship or corporation. Each arrangement has advantages and disadvantages so determine which is best for you. A small business counselor can provide guidance.
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Step 2
Determine which skid loader works best for your planned business. Visit local equipment dealers and learn as much as you can about the different models. Flat tires can be a common problem with skid loaders and one solution is to use foam injected tires. You will need to shop for a new or preferably a used flat bed trailer which can support the weight of a skid loader. Skid loaders are heavy, weighing over 3000 pounds. Your vehicle will need to be capable of towing this plus the trailer weight. Next determine what market you will serve with your skid loader business. Skid loaders can accommodate various attachments in addition to a regular dirt moving blade. Sweeper attachments, rock hammers and even tree stump shredders can all be used on skid loaders. Try to find a niche within the construction business in your area that is not being filled by talking to company foremen and owners.
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Step 3
Finally you will need to advertise. Use word of mouth with friends, family and your church or social club to get the word out that you do dirt moving and other skid loader work. Place a yellow pages ad in the phone book and advertise in local papers and online. Once you build up a solid clientele you can reduce your advertising budget. Have enough funds saved up so that you are prepared to lose money or break even for the first year. Lack of operating capital is the number
