Whether you are looking to start your own business to get financially independent or for a flexible side hustle, the moving business can be the right fit for you. You can start your own moving company with a small investment, especially if you already own a van or a moving truck. Moreover, with your own moving company, you will be your own boss. You can enjoy flexible hours, start by working on the weekends and still earn a good monthly income. If this sounds like something you want to do, read the steps below that will help you get started.
1. Get a moving van or a truck
In order to provide moving services, you will need a truck or van. If you don’t own one, you can rent one. Find the right vehicle that meets all of your needs. When you plan your moving day, make sure you consider fuel efficiency, since you will have to cover a lot of miles. Many families and individuals who relocate prefer to hire moving companies to help them move their furniture and household goods.
2. Get tools and equipment
Apart from getting a truck or a van, consider getting the necessary tools and equipment that will help you to quickly, safely and efficiently complete moving jobs. For example, most movers use a dolly to help with loading and unloading. You may also want to get straps, boxes, and moving blankets to help keep the cargo safe from any kind of damage during transportation. You may have to spend a little extra, but you will get what you pay for and this will also help you avoid liability that may arise if any items that your customers have entrusted you with are damaged.
3. Set up your moving business
First of all, it is important for you to come up with a business plan. Consider the services that you can provide, the location of your business and the type of jobs that your business will undertake. For instance, if you’re only looking to make a little extra money, you might only provide services on the weekends. On the other hand, if you’re more serious about your moving business, you could offer interstate moving services 5 or 6 days a week. If you can offer a wide variety of services, you may start a full service moving company. You may also choose a name and a logo for your moving business. Be creative and come up with something unique so your business can stand out.
4. Get insured and licensed
Make sure that you have business insurance or the appropriate insurance that covers situations such as workplace injuries, an accident of your moving vehicle, damage and loss of the cargo. Moreover, a moving company will need to have the licenses and permits that are required by the State, especially if a moving company offers interstate moving services. We would suggest that you get the New Motor Carrier Authority in order to fulfill all the FMCSA registration requirements. This will also help create a more professional image of your moving business. Having insurance and the required licenses and permits will help build trust with customers. People avoid hiring a moving company that is not insured or licensed.
5. Promote your moving business and build a strong reputation
Once you have set up your business and have all the equipment and tools ready, you just need to look for some customers. You can inform your family and friends about your new business and encourage them to recommend your services to others. You should also create a website and use social media platforms, such as instagram and facebook, to get the word out about your business. In today’s world, many people look online for stuff like this. However, old fashioned ways of promoting a business may also prove helpful. You could put flyers and brochures in grocery stores and small shops. You could also get in touch with furniture shops and let them know that if their customers need help transporting furniture items, your business is ready to help at reasonable rates.
It is important to provide excellent services so that all of your customers are happy with their experiences with your moving company. If your customers are satisfied, they will get in touch with you the next time they need moving services. They will also refer other customers your way if they are happy with the services that were provided to them. Work with your moving staff to build a reputation for professionalism.