How to Start and Operate a Moving Company
One small busines that you can start from your home is a moving company. If you are unfamiliar with how professional moving companies operate, it would be a good idea to work for one before you start your own. Once you have that experience, you can apply it to your own venture. Here is a step-by-step description of how you can start your own moving business when you feel you are ready.
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Instructions
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Establish a business plan in writing that includes what area your business will cover, how many employees you think you will need and a marketing plan to get started. When you are first starting out, it would be easier to set your area at a 50 mile radius from your home. You can expand that radius as your company expands.
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Apply for a business certificate at the local government business office. Some states require moving companies to have a special permit. Ask the associate at the business certificate office for more information. Ask also about special licensing requirements.
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Analyze your vehicle situation and determine if you have a vehicle large enough to move the contents of a house in two trips or less. If you do not have a sufficient vehicle then you will need to purchase or lease one. A large cargo van can be a good vehicle to start with.
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Purchase liability insurance for your company and discuss vehicle insurance with your agent to determine if your current policy will be sufficient.
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Hire at least one helper. If you are physically able to do some of the work yourself, you will be able to start with just you and the helper. If you are not physically able to do the work, you will need to hire at least two physically able people.
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Circulate flyers around town announcing your business, and post your flyers on community billboards throughout town as well.
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Establish relationships with real estate agents, apartment complex owners and anyone else that may be able to refer you business on a regular basis.
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Tips & Warnings
Start with modest goals. Do not expect to develop into a full-time business in a week or a month. Build your business gradually and continue to network with potential referrals to help your business grow.
If you intend to expand your business to cross state lines discuss insurance issues with your agent first. Also inquire about any special licenses or permits for interstate business.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit moving image by dinostock from Fotolia.com
