There has never been a better time to be starting a business.
Getting the word out about a startup is easier than ever with targeted advertising through social media and inbound marketing.
An interesting start idea that has been around for a very long time is starting your own courier business.
Why a courier business, you ask? After all there is a lot of competition.
That may be true, but it doesn’t mean that it should scare you off.
Here are some good reasons to get started as a courier.
1 – Low barrier to entry
All you need to get started is a van, a driver, some marketing savvy and insurance.
There are deals for new vans happening all the time. In fact you could even begin with a slightly used van to save in upfront expenses.
If you are somebody with experience and can handle creating an inbound marketing strategy yourself then you can save quite a bit of money in the beginning. Many inbound marketing techniques are free or cost very little for a big ROI.
And insurance is very reasonable with rates actually falling by 2% in the UK over the last year, particularly when it comes to van insurance comparison.
2 – Big growth in the upcoming years
It’s estimated that within the next 10 years up to half of all the shopping done in the UK will be online.
That means a huge increase in parcel delivery. When the existing couriers can’t handle the overflow, this is when you and your new company steps in to fill the gap!
3 – Internet of Things improves efficiency
With the rise of the Internet of Things, you can easily track your vehicles to make for a very efficient business.
Tracking vehicles will save on fuel and insurance and will improve customer satisfaction and improve safety. This is the best way to compete with the big companies by offering stellar service made possible by the latest in internet technology.
4 – Very franchise friendly
Once you have carved out a niche in the market and developed a reputable brand, then it could be time to start franchising.
Franchising is one of the best ways to scale up a business and a courier company could be a very attractive offer for those looking to become franchisees.
5 – Recession– proof
There will never be a time when people don’t need to have goods delivered. Whether it is from people buying from e-commerce sites like Amazon or even small businesses needing to rent out a fleet for their shipping needs.
Even a slow economy will still present you with opportunities to grow your business.
Verdict
It might not be the sexiest of startup ideas, but what it lacks in flash, it delivers in substance.
I often find the best opportunities in those areas that not many people are looking because it doesn’t have a certain caché that generates curiosity.
Starting a courier business should top your list of opportunities right now!
