How to Set Up a Home Groceries Delivery

A home grocery delivery service can be set up for very little cash up front.

It is hard for some people to get to the grocery store on a regular basis. Either they're very busy or they have other issues that prevent them from getting there. Having someone they can count on to go to the store for them and get the shopping done can be a great source of relief. Delivering groceries either full or part time can be both a rewarding way to help others, and it can be a lucrative business.

Instructions

1. Tour the grocery store where you will do the most shopping and make a list of the sections according to where they are in the store. This will help you navigate when you follow your customers' lists.

2. Type up a list that your customers can mark before you go shopping. Categorize the list so that you can easily find everything when you're shopping. Place popular items under each category and leave spaces for other items or specific brands or sizes your customers need.

3. Check with your car insurance company and make sure you have adequate coverage for the service you are providing. If you won't carry passengers, it's likely that your basic coverage will suffice.

4. Call your city or county clerk's office and find out if you need any permits or licenses for running a business from your home.

5. Advertise for customers by posting classified ads in local newspapers, printing up flyers and posting them at community bulletin boards, and at the grocery store. Ask local senior and community centers if they have a place where you can post your advertisement.

6. Pay attention to the prices and know what you'll be spending. Keep a price book and a copy of the receipts so you can mark down how much items cost.

7. Set rates for the service of shopping for others. Be reasonable, but don't short yourself for the time, effort and gas involved. Organize yourself well and you can likely shop for more than one person at a time.

8. Provide other services to expand on your bottom line, such as running other errands or taking people who can't drive to appointments.

References

• Entrepreneur Magazine: Grocery Delivery Service
• The Michigan Daily; Students Start Grocery Delivery Service; Veronica Menaldi; March 11, 2010