Starting a logistics business can be very profitable. With proper planning, execution and hard work, you can enjoy great success. Below you will learn the keys to launching a successful logistics business.
Importantly, a critical step in starting a logistics business is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here.
14 Steps To Start a Logistics Business:
- Choose the Name for Your Logistics Business
- Develop Your Logistics Business Plan
- Choose the Legal Structure for Your Logistics Business
- Secure Startup Funding for Your Logistics Business (If Needed)
- Secure a Lease for Your Location
- Register Your Logistics Business with the IRS
- Open a Business Bank Account
- Get a Business Credit Card
- Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
- Get Business Insurance for Your Logistics Business
- Buy or Lease the Right Logistics Business Equipment
- Develop Your Logistics Business Marketing Materials
- Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Logistics Business
- Open for Business
1. Choose the Name for Your Logistics Business
The first step to starting a logistics business is to choose your business’ name.
This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your logistics business:
- Make sure the name is available. Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
- Keep it simple. The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
- Think about marketing. Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your logistics business.
2. Develop Your Logistics Business Plan
One of the most important steps in starting your own logistics company is to develop your logistics business plan. The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.
Your business plan should include the following sections:
- Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your transport and logistics business.
- Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your logistics business and what type of logistics business you operate. For example, are you a freight transportation business, a warehousing business, or a third-party logistics business.
- Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the logistics business industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
- Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target customers are and their demographics. For example, how old are they? Where do they live? What do they find important when purchasing services like the ones you will offer?
- Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
- Marketing Plan – your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
- Product: Determine and document what products/services you will offer
- Prices: Document the prices of your products/services
- Place: Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
- Promotions: What promotional methods will you use to attract customers to your logistics business? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing.
- Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
- Management Team – this section details the background of your company’s management team.
- Financial Plan – finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
- What startup costs will you incur?
- How will your logistics business make money?
- What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
- Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?
3. Choose the Legal Structure for Your Logistics Business
Next you need to choose a legal structure for your logistics business and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.
Below are the five most common legal structures:
1) Sole proprietorship
A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the logistics business owner and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.
2) Partnerships
A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among small businesses. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a logistics business together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business.
The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.
3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)
A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a logistics business include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.
4) C Corporation
A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a logistics business is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.
5) S Corporation
An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.
Once you register your logistics business, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.
4. Secure Startup Funding for Your Logistics Business (If Needed)
In developing your logistics business plan, you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business.
If so, the main sources of funding for a logistics business to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a logistics business that they believe has high potential for growth.
5. Secure a Lease for Your Location
There are a few key things to consider when finding a location for your logistics business. First, think about your target market and what areas they are in. You’ll want to be close to your customers so that you can easily deliver consumer goods and services to them. Additionally, you’ll need to find a space that is large enough to accommodate your operations, and it should be in a commercial area with good infrastructure so that you can easily access shipping and transportation options.
6. Register Your Logistics Business with the IRS
Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.
Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.
7. Open a Business Bank Account
It is important to establish a bank account in your logistics business’ name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:
- Identify and contact the bank you want to use
- Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
- Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
- Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them
8. Get a Business Credit Card
You should get a business credit card for your logistics business to help you separate personal and business expenses.
You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.
When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.
Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.
9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
Licenses and permits needed to start a logistics business will vary depending on the location of your business. The following is a list of possible licenses and permits you may need:
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) number
- State or local business license
- Commercial Driver’s License
- Commercial Vehicle Registration
- General or local permits for transporting goods in your area
- Special licenses and permits needed to transport goods in your area, such as a Department of Transportation (DOT) number, if necessary
10. Get Business Insurance for Your Logistics Business
Business insurance policies that you should consider for your logistics business include:
- General liability insurance: This covers accidents and injuries that occur on your property. It also covers damages caused by your employees or products.
- Auto insurance: If a vehicle is used in your business, this type of insurance will cover if a vehicle is damaged or stolen.
- Workers’ compensation insurance: If you have employees, this type of policy works with your general liability policy to protect against workplace injuries and accidents. It also covers medical expenses and lost wages.
- Commercial property insurance: This covers damage to your property caused by fire, theft, or vandalism.
Find an insurance agent, tell them about your business and its needs, and they will recommend policies that fit those needs.
11. Buy or Lease the Right Logistics Business Equipment
To start a logistics business, you will need some essential equipment. You’ll need a truck to transport goods, a computer and software to track shipments, and a phone to stay in touch with your clients. You will also want to invest in a security system to protect your truck and inventory.
12. Develop Your Logistics Business Marketing Materials
Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your logistics business.
The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:
- Logo: Spend some time developing a good logo for your logistics business. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
- Website: Likewise, a professional logistics business website provides potential customers with information about the services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your website will affect how customers perceive you.
- Social Media Accounts: establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media networks will help customers and others find and interact with your logistics business.
13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Logistics Business
To run a logistics business, you will need software to help with inventory tracking, shipping,customer management and billing.
Some common types of logistics business software include:
- Warehouse management software
- CRM software
- Accounting software
- Shipping and tracking software
There are many advantages to using software in a logistics business. The most notable advantage is efficiency. An automated system ensures that all tasks will be completed without the need for much oversight. It also makes sure that employees are performing tasks correctly and in a timely manner.
The software can also help you analyze data about your business. This will make it easy to make adjustments when necessary, which allows you to maintain peak efficiency at all times.
14. Open for Business
You are now ready to open your logistics business. If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business and know everything you need about starting a logistics company. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.
Additional Resources
How to Finish Your Ultimate Business Plan in 1 Day!
Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your logistics business plan?
With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!
Click here to finish your logistics business plan today.
How to Start a Logistics Business FAQs
Is it hard to start a logistics business?
It's not hard to start a successful logistics company, but it is extremely important to set-up the business properly. This means putting in some time and money upfront, such as getting an accountant and lawyer, creating a legal entity, registering your company name and trademark, renting an office space.
If you follow the steps above, you should be able to start your Logistics business without too much difficulty.
How can I start a logistics business with no experience?
There are a few things you can do in order to start a logistics business with no experience. First, you can research the industry and learn as much as you can about it. There are many resources available online, so be sure to take advantage of them. You can also speak to experts in the field or people who have started their own logistics companies. They can offer invaluable advice and tips. Finally, you need to create a solid business plan and strategy for your logistics business. This will help you stay organized and on track.
Is a logistics business a good idea and/or a good investment?
Logistics businesses are a good idea and a good investment because they they tend to have high margins. If you are prepared to invest time and money into your business, it can be very successful.
What type of logistics business is most profitable?
The most profitable type of logistics business is one that specializes in delivering goods to customers quickly and efficiently. This could include companies that offer same-day delivery or those that specialize in shipping products domestically.
How much does it cost to start a logistics business?
The cost to start a logistics business can vary depending on the size and scope of the business. However, in general, startup costs can range from $10,000 to $100,000. This includes items such as:
- Rent and equipment
- Computers and software systems
- Fixtures like shelves and storage racks
One must consider additional costs such as insurance, licenses and permits.
What are the ongoing expenses for a logistics business?
The ongoing expenses for a logistics business can include items such as transportation costs, inventory costs, and labor costs. These costs can vary depending on the industry and scale of the company.
How does a logistics business make money?
Logistics businesses make money by providing a service that helps manage the flow of goods and materials. They help companies plan, track, and optimize their shipments, which can save money and improve efficiency.
Is owning a logistics business profitable?
Yes, it is. There are a few reasons why owning a logistics business can be profitable.
First, the industry is growing rapidly, thanks to the rise of e-commerce. This means that there is a lot of potential for growth in the industry, which is good news for business owners.
Second, the logistics industry is very competitive, but this also means that there is room for innovation and creativity. Business owners who are able to come up with new ideas and strategies will be able to succeed in the industry.
Finally, the logistics industry is relatively recession-proof. When the economy takes a downturn, people tend to reduce their spending, but they will still need to buy necessities like food and medicine.
Why do logistics businesses fail?
There are many reasons why logistics businesses fail. One reason may be that the business did not properly research and plan their logistics operations. A business may also fail if it does not have a well-developed marketing plan, or if it does not have a good understanding of the costs involved in running a logistics operation. Other reasons for business failure may include poor management, lack of capital, and competition from larger companies.
Business Plan Template & Guide For Small Businesses
How To Write A Great Business Plan
100 Business Plan Examples To Use To Create Your Plan