Starting a business out of your van is a great way to make some money on the side. Plus, you get to be your own boss. There are several benefits to starting a business. But there are several things you need to know before starting your business.
#1: Consider the Legalities
The first thing you need to know before starting a business from your vehicle is the legal decisions you’re expected to make. When you’re starting your business, you’ll have to undergo some legalities. First, what kind of business are you setting up? Are you setting up a limited liability company (LLC), partnership, or sole proprietorship?
You’ll also need to acquire a license to operate your business within your state. You’ll also need a federal tax identification number (FIN) as well as an employer identification number (EIN). It sounds like a lot of paperwork, but it’s not that bad. Don’t let the legalities dissuade you from starting a business. Just take care of these matters as soon as possible, so you can focus on providing exceptional customer service.
#2: Get Insured
You also need insurance to protect your business. If you’re using your van for business, then you’ll need some sort of auto insurance. You should also invest in business liability insurance, which protects your business from lawsuits or third-party claims. You shouldn’t let any of these legal issues prevent you from starting a business. These are normal things you need to address early on in your business.
#3: Make Sure You Have Reliable Transportation
You should ensure that your van is operable and ready to conduct business. If you don’t own a commercial vehicle, then what type interests you? Keep in mind that space will be limited if you’re transporting freight into a van. Freight like auto parts, equipment, medical supplies, and overnight supplies will require shorter trips.
The van that you purchase should be reliable, or it’s going to slow down your business. You don’t want to get stuck on the side road when you have packages that need to be delivered. While you don’t need a big van to be successful, you do need some sort of transportation, and a pickup truck, semi-truck, or van can get you anywhere you need with few problems.
#4: Don’t Be Afraid of Constructive Criticism
You don’t want your commercial business to fail or to have complaints, but it’s a common part of handling business. Use this constructive criticism as an opportunity to improve your business. Maybe you should work on your customer service skills. Or, maybe you need to expand on your product line. Don’t forget to check in with your clients to see if they’re having success with your business.
If you’re open and honest with your clients, then they’ll do the same. You don’t want to get into a fight if one of them complains about your business. Instead, apologize and find a way to correct the problem. If you resolve the matter in a timely fashion, then the client is more likely to return your company.
#5: Prepare to Work Long Hours
Starting your business may sound exciting, but there’s a lot of work involved – especially when you’re doing it by yourself. Since you’re in charge, you’ll have to work longer hours than you’re used to. This could take some time away from your friends and family at the start. You may have to work early mornings, overnights, and weekends to become successful.
Do you enjoy making business decisions on your own? Or, would you rather have a meeting of the minds? If you’d rather share decision-making and other responsibilities, then you may need a partner or a team of people to help you out. One advantage of operating solo is that you get to sleep in your own commercial vehicle.
But keep in mind that it can be tight quarters if you’re working with others for several days or weeks at a time. If you want to work as a team, then you need to find people who are a good fit. As you can see, running a business isn’t easy. But if you put time and dedication into it, then your business will be successful before you know it.
These are the five things you need to keep in mind when starting a business from your van. Don’t let them discourage you. They should motivate you to get started. If you work hard enough, then your commercial business will quickly become a success.