A variety of freight delivery companies move products across the United States. Most of these companies use semis and tractor-trailers. Although it requires a large initial investment, and although you might have to manage other drivers and meet federal requirements for hauling some materials, starting a freight delivery business might be something to consider if you're looking for a new career and enjoy driving and traveling.
Instructions
1. Find funding for your business. The startup cost for a freight delivery business is rather large. You'll need money to cover the cost of purchasing a semi, a trailer and fuel. In addition, you'll need money for meals on the road and any emergency vehicle repairs.
2. Register your business. Once you've found funding, you can register your business. You'll need to register for an employer identification number from the IRS. This number will be used to identify your business on all documents and forms. You'll also need to register with your state government and possibly the local government where your business operates from.
3. Get your CDL. A commercial driver's license is required to drive a semi or other heavy-duty truck used to haul freight. You should have this type of license even if you plan to hire drivers yourself, since you never know when you will need to move a truck or make a delivery if someone is unable to work. You can get a CDL by taking the written and driving exam offered by your county DMV office.
4. Find vehicles to deliver the freight. A number of dealers throughout the United States specialize in selling semis and tractor-trailers. You can find semis in your area by searching the heavy duty truck listings website. You should make sure you test-drive every vehicle before purchasing it to ensure it's what you want.
5. Contract with businesses to haul their freight. Find customers by advertising and marketing your freight delivery business. Once you have a company committed, try to get a long-term contract to haul for them for at least six months. This can provide some stability for your business.
6. Hire drivers. While you might start out as the only freight driver in your organization, your business might expand once you've secured a few long-term contracts with businesses and companies in your area. You'll then need to hire additional drivers who have a CDL. If you are hauling petroleum, chemicals or other hazardous materials, you will need to hire a driver with a Hazmat endorsement. Drivers can get this endorsement from their state's driver's license administration office after passing a background check conducted by the Transportation Security Administration.
7. Establish driving schedules. After hiring drivers and contracting with a few companies, you can begin running trucks on the road. To help manage your employees as well as your loads, establish a driving schedule. This lets you and your drivers know exactly what needs to be hauled when and who is responsible for doing it.
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