So I’m going to be an Owner Driver.

22 Sep Blog

It’s no small task going out on your own.

Becoming your own boss is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. You are the driver (literally) and if you take a day off all it hurts is your pocket.

On the flip side you get to manage and direct your operation in a way that suits your purpose and customers, There is nothing as rewarding as having a purpose and fulfilling it.

Alright, so I go out on my own and then what?…

1 – Firstly you need to know why you are going out on your own. That’s your ‘Why’.

2- Secondly you’re going to need to cover your legal side of things like

• ABN, Insurance, and any licensing you need to operate.
• Now is the time to decide whether you will operate as a company, partnership or sole trader. It’s a pain changing it later, trust me:)

3 -Next you’re going to need to cover your financial aspect of running your business,

• Accountant, Bank account, and Accounting software – MYOB is quite affordable and easy to use.
• It’s a good idea to have all your company details on one page, for sending to customers and suppliers.

4- Operations – You’re probably all over this side if you have been in the industry already. You’re going to need to make sure you have the right equipment for the section of the industry you serve.

Examples of some of the equipment you may need to get started.

• Linehaul – 9m Ratchet Straps, Load Angles (full size, hall size or curved) Plywood/Corflute to protect palletised loads.
• General Freight – Ratchet straps, Angles, Chains, Load Binders, General freight can be a real mixed bag and you may need totally different equipment to the next guy.
• Heavy Haulage – Chains, Load Binders, Chain angles, Friction mat.

5 -Marketing and Sales

As someone once said “If you’re in business you’re in sales”

To start with all you really need is a business card and freight charge-out list. – Website can come later.

Set a target of new customer contacts you will make each day. One benefit you have is you can make calls while you drive (hands free of course)

It’s not the most exciting part or the easiest part of running your own show but  without sales you are going to be spending more time in a rest area than a grey nomad.

You are the brand so ensure you do what you say and say what you do and your customers will appreciate you.

Happy Truckin