Setting Up a Courier Business
Delivering messages, packages and other materials can be a lucrative business if the need in your community is strong enough. The experience needed to become a courier is minimal. Being able to offer fast pick-up and delivery and learning the quickest routes through your delivery area are essential if you want to stay competitive, especially in areas with multiple courier services. By maintaining a professional attitude, you can easily build and maintain a strong client base.
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Instructions
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Determine the type of courier services to provide to the community. Services include delivering small packages and envelopes, large packages, legal documents, hazardous materials, or accompanying packages and other items to other regions, both nationally and internationally. If handling hazardous materials, you will need specialized training and licensing. Contact the U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration for more information about Hazmat training and permit requirements.
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Contact local businesses such as medical offices, law firms, architecture firms, warehouses, real estate offices and other businesses to determine the need for courier or messenger services in the community. Determine your rates based on business need and the types of services requested.
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Establish a delivery range for your courier business. This includes how far you will travel to pick up and drop off materials. Setting limits on travel allows you to estimate a reasonable time for delivery.
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Determine your mode of transportation. Most couriers rely on their own car, public transportation, bicycle or motorcycle depending on their location and delivery area. Properly maintain your vehicle to ensure that all deliveries will be picked up and delivered on time. Maintain a valid driver's license and clean driving record at all times.
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Invest in a GPS device or detailed maps of your delivery area so you can easily find business locations and residential areas.
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Advertise courier services in newspapers, online or on community message boards. Calling businesses in the area to introduce yourself and your services can lead to new clients. Attend local networking events, community events and chamber of commerce events to meet business owners in the area.
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Tips & Warnings
Gain experience in the courier business by working for a professional courier service.
Do not handle hazardous materials without completing the proper training.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit enveloppe icon image by michele goglio from Fotolia.com
