Most businesses need a courier service at some time or another, so it’s a venture that could prove profitable in the longer term.
Whether you already have your own courier business or are thinking of starting one, there are some key things that you should try to focus on that could help to make your business a success.
Here are 3 things that every good courier company needs.
1. Sufficient Vehicles
To fulfil a certain number of deliveries each day, you will need a sufficient number of vehicles. You are likely to get several bookings for the same day, some of which will be time-specific or within tight time parameters, so you must be in a position to achieve this.
The last thing you want is to turn customers away as it’s unlikely they will try to use you again if you couldn’t accommodate the first time around.
You may decide to buy a fleet of vehicles once your business expands but, until you are well-established, it makes sense to have drivers that will work on a self-employed basis and use their own transport.
Not only does it help to keep your outlays to a minimum, but gives you far more scope in terms of bookings levels.
2. Local Area Knowledge
Ensuring that packages are delivered on time is crucial for any courier company, so it’s important to appoint drivers that are familiar with the area and the local traffic.
Established courier firms such as Couriers Chicago, for example, pride themselves on their drivers having impeccable knowledge about the local area.
As well as knowing the quickest routes, they are also familiar with locations that can become congested at certain times of the day. This, coupled with a high level of experience, means that they can offer a timeous and top-notch service to all of their clients.
Make sure your drivers have a good GPS, keep track of any accidents or traffic issues before setting off, and keep up-to-date with any ongoing roadworks. Delivering packages when you say you will always be a priority, and having a broad local knowledge will help make that possible.
3. A Good Reputation
As a high percentage of your customers will be local much of your business may come from word of mouth, so your reputation could make or break your business. If you provide a quality, timeous, and professional service, it is far more likely that an existing client will recommend you to others.
If, on the other hand, you don’t deliver what you say you will, or your staff, for example, are rude or unreliable, it’s unlikely to lead to a growth in new customers. Make your employees aware that they are the face of your company, and must provide an efficient service at all times.
If your customers are impressed, they will continue to give you their business. If they are let down, they will probably tell others to avoid using you. Don’t let your reputation ruin what could otherwise be a great success.
