Running a trucking business can be quite tough, especially if you’re just getting started. Aside from competing with larger trucking companies, you’ll have to worry about various trucking regulations. So how can you grow your trucking business under such circumstances? Try the five simple tips below for starters!
Take Advantage of Trucker Loans
If you need financing to grow your trucking business, then you can consider getting trucking business loans. These small business loans for truckers serve to provide funding that will help you jump start or expand your operations. From adding more trucks to your fleet to covering day-to-day company expenses, these loans will help you out a lot. It will even allow you to improve your competitive edge by letting you invest in new transportation technology and what-not. That being said, there are several factors that will determine whether or not you can qualify for a trucking business loan. These include your credit history, credit score, and current income.
Commit to Provide Premium Trucking Services
For more people to trust your brand, you need to deliver what you promise. So if you tell prospective clients that provide premium trucking services, you need to do that and more. That means making sure your clients’ packages are kept safe while in your custody, transporting it from one location to another on time, and maintaining a professional albeit friendly relationship with your clients, among other things. This will take time, effort, and resources, as well as a few adjustments to your operations (i.e., investing in new trucks, hiring better drivers, etc). But in the end, the results will be all worth it.
Follow Trucking Industry Rules and Regulations
Additionally, providing premium trucking services also means you need to follow the industry’s rules and regulations to a tee. Doing so will give your brand integrity, making people trust you more. Bear in mind that changes, alterations, and new regulations are being proposed and introduced constantly. In fact, a new comprehensive bill was passed into law in November 2021 that made serious changes to the trucking industry. As the business owner, it’s your responsibility to brush up on these new rules and regulations. That way, you can make sure your trucking business keeps its nose out of any trouble.
Invest in New Transportation Technology
It might not look that way, but the trucking industry is constantly evolving. Mechanics, engineers, and developers are continually creating and releasing new tools and technology that can make any trucker’s life easier. To keep providing top-notch services (not to mention give your team an edge), you need to invest in the following:
GPS
GPS technology will make your truckers’ tasks easier by helping them find the best routes to their destination. This will lead to increased productivity and safety. As an added bonus, GPS can help lower operational costs like fuel and food expenses.
Electronic Logbook Devices
Electronic Logbook Devices or ELDs help track your truckers’ movements accurately. This helps you and your clients estimate how long before the package is delivered where it needs to be. And it helps your team stay accountable. Most ELD apps can be downloaded and used on smartphones and tablets.
Telematics
Truck driving can be very dangerous sometimes. So to ensure the well-being of your drivers and trucks, make sure your units are equipped with cameras, backup cameras, dash cams, head-strap LED flashlights, and other telematic devices. Aside from helping your truckers stay aware of their surroundings, it will also help them stay in touch with your dispatchers. This will be very helpful in case there are accidents or road hazards on the way.
Wi-Fi Hotspots and Satellite Dishes
Of course, trucking shouldn’t be all work and no play; you need to give your team something to keep them entertained. To that end, make sure your truckers are equipped with Wi-Fi hotspots and satellite dishes. This will help them access the internet, allowing them to use their social media handles or watch Netflix during their breaks.
Implement a Digital Marketing Plan
Finally, you need to give your trucking business digital clout by investing in digital marketing. Doing so will expand your operations like never before, and it will help more people become aware of your brand. Some of the things you can start with include establishing your business’ website, creating content and publishing it there, and posting on your social media accounts (if any). Mind you, these are not the only steps needed to successfully pull off digital marketing. But it’s a great start. Plus, you can always outsource it to professionals.
Grow Your Trucking Business
The trucking industry is a very profitable albeit competitive business. For your trucking business to take full advantage of it, you need to make sure it’s growing. By following the five tips above, you can do just that!
