WAHM > Stay at Home Mom Work Ideas > Selling a Service > Courier Service Business

Start a Courier Service

What you will be doing.  Local businesses need packages delivered on a daily basis. Depending on the business type, things may need to go across town in a hurry. As a courier, it will be your job to get these items where they need to be.

How to start.  What will you haul? Some couriers specialize in larger items such as furniture. A home business or a small business that creates furniture for private homes and other businesses may need your assistance to get their products to their destinations.

When you think of a courier, we envision someone racing though the streets of New York on a bike dodging opened doors and busy traffic. That is not always the case. Unless you niche into a speedy courier service, take a breather.

Insurance issues need to be dealt with regarding carrying sensitive documents and other items. Be sure that your insurance policy covers the business and any accidents. A courier can use their own vehicle as long as it is safe and appropriate for the size of items being transported. Whatever vehicle you use, affix a logo sign to the side to advertise the business.

Starting costs. If you need a vehicle dedicated to the business, the start up costs could be a hefty down payment on that vehicle. Besides that, costs will include equipment such as computer, Internet usage, fax, telephone line, printer, and advertising. Scheduling software ensures that deliveries are spaced far enough apart to complete them in satisfactory time.

Skills needed.  A good driving record will inspire confidence in your clients. They won’t want to trust their packages to an unsafe driver. Courier services deal in customer service. They provide timely pick up for clients and timely delivery for their customers.

Couriers also need to know the quickest routes around town to reach their destinations. Time lost is equal to money lost. Mapping out routes throughout the city cut time off of deliveries and use less gas. Scheduling package pickup at companies on the same side of town will save on fuel and time.

Marketing.  Brochures advertising your services must get into the hands of businesses all across the city. To do this a targeted mail campaign will let them know you exist. For others, advertising in a coupon book that gets mailed throughout the city brings your name to local residents. New customers can get a discount on their first delivery.

Once the business is registered, create a logo. Paying to have the logo painted or screen printed on your vehicle is a great billboard. It is cheaper than a real billboard and gets more notice.