Grow Your Independent Courier Business: 3 Steps to Success
If you work as an independent courier running your own business, one of the things you may be concerned about is growing your business and taking it to the next level. If so, there are a number of things that you can do to increase your chances of exponential growth.
1. Focus on Building Relationships
Your relationships with your clients are going to be important right from the start when you are working as an independent courier. As an owner driver, you will be dealing directly with your clients and will be meeting them in person when you deliver the packages. Your personal skills will be essential, and you will make a better impression on your clients by being professional and courteous at all times. If your clients find you easy to work with – and you provide a good service – they are more likely to stick with you.
2. Make Your Availability Known
Winning more jobs when you are working on your own can seem a challenge, but the secret is to make sure other companies know when you are available. This means letting others know when you are in a particular area and you have an empty truck; you may find your work coming through other companies in need of a driver in a particular place at a certain time. Do a good job for them, and they will have you on record as a driver they can trust.
It is a good idea to join up with a courier network, which is often one of the simplest ways to publicise your availability at particular times. Many large companies use these networks to find drivers quickly, so it is one of the simplest ways to pick up extra work on a regular basis.
3. Invest in Your Drivers
If you grow your independent courier business to the point where you start to take on drivers, treat them as your most important investment. If you treat them well and pay them accordingly, you will have a happier workforce and make a better impression on your customers. There is also more chance that they will stay working long term for you, reducing staff turnover. Your drivers will be the face of your business, and if they are happy in their jobs they are more likely to convey that to the clients.
Grow Your Business
If you want to grow your independent courier business over the years, these tips can help you to expand it. Focus on providing the best service you can, be patient, work hard and you will soon see your business grow as you continue to win new contracts.
Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for same day independent courier jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 2,500 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading courier jobs and capacity in a safe 'wholesale' environment.