how to draw up a business plan for owner operator trucking

Key Strategies for an Effective Owner Operator Business Plan

by Baily Sandage | Jan 11, 2024 | Uncategorized

Starting your own trucking business as an owner-operator is both an exciting and daunting venture. You’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of crafting a successful business plan. It’s a common hurdle for many in your shoes, seeking to transform their trucking career into a thriving, independent business.

Crafting a Winning Owner-Operator Business Plan

Imagine John, an experienced driver, ready to steer his career towards owning a business. He faces the same challenges you do: understanding regulatory requirements, passing the new entrant safety audit , acquiring a DOT number, and ensuring compliance. These obstacles are casting a shadow of doubt over his dream.

Picture this: a world where these challenges are just milestones, not roadblocks. You’re at the helm of a successful trucking operation, with all regulatory and compliance boxes checked. This freedom allows you to focus on growing your business, finding better routes, and maximizing profits. It’s a world of opportunities, unlocked by overcoming initial hurdles.

Your Roadmap to Success

• Develop a Robust Business Plan: Outline your business goals, financial plan, and strategies.
• Understand and Prepare for the New Entrant Safety Audit: This critical step ensures your compliance with safety standards.
• Acquiring Your DOT Number: Typically, it takes around one week to get a DOT number, but preparation is key.
• Stay Informed and Compliant: Regularly update yourself on DOT regulations and ensure your business adheres to these standards.
• Invest in Adequate Insurance: Protect your business against unforeseen events and liabilities.
• A DOT Inspection Checklist : Maintain your fleet with routine checks to avoid any compliance issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does it take to get a DOT number ? Usually, it takes about one week to obtain a DOT number, but preparation for compliance starts much earlier.
• What is crucial in passing the new entrant safety audit? Maintaining accurate logs, ensuring vehicle safety, and having proper insurance are key.
• Why is compliance so important? Compliance is not just about following rules; it’s about ensuring the safety of your operations and the longevity of your business.

Connecting Through Shared Experiences

Think about your current challenges in starting your trucking business. What steps can you take today to move closer to your goal?

Your journey as an owner-operator, though filled with challenges, is a path to independence and success. At TruckingHQ, we understand the intricacies of this journey and are here to guide you through every step. Connect with us for personalized advice and solutions to create a thriving owner-operator business plan. Let’s steer your dream into reality together!

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Truck Owner Operator Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Truck Owner Operator Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their truck owner operator businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a truck owner operator business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

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What is a Truck Owner Operator Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your truck owner operator business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan as a Truck Owner Operator

If you’re looking to start a truck owner operator business, or grow your existing truck owner operator business, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your truck owner operator business in order to improve your chances of success. Your truck owner operator business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Truck Owner Operator Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a truck owner operator business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for truck owner operator businesses.

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How to write a business plan for a truck owner operator.

If you want to start a truck owner operator business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. Below are links to each section of your truck owner operator business plan template:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of truck owner operator business you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a trucking business that you would like to grow, or are you operating truck owner operator businesses in multiple markets?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the truck owner operator industry. Discuss the type of trucking business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of truck owner operator company you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of truck owner operator businesses:

• Leased owner operator (exclusive) : this type of truck owner operator business does not have their own motor carrier authority granted by the Department of Transportation. This business cannot operate fully independently from a motor carrier company.
• Leased owner operator (non-exclusive): this type of truck owner operator also does not have their own Department of Transportation motor carrier authority and are still able to operate on the open market on their own and by contracting with motor carrier companies. They are free to negotiate their own contracts with carriers they choose to work with.
• For hire owner operator: this type of truck owner operator is entirely independent and does hold their own Department of Transportation motor carrier authority. They are able to operate as their own business entity.

In addition to explaining the type of truck owner operator business you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of client companies served, number of positive reviews, reaching X amount of client companies served, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the trucking industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the trucking industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating. 

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your truck owner operator business plan:

• How big is the trucking industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your truck owner operator business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your truck owner operator business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: large retail operation, retail chain, and construction companies

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of trucking business you operate. Clearly, construction companies would respond to different marketing promotions than large retail operations, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other trucking businesses. 

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes transportation companies such as railroads and air transportation. You need to mention such competition as well.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other trucking businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be trucking businesses located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of trucks do they operate?
• What areas do they serve?
• What type of trucking company are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Are your trucks more fully-equipped than the competition?
• Will you provide transportation services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a trucking business, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of trucking company that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to a trucking company, will you provide GPS tracking, 24/7/365 service, client communication, and any other services?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your trucking company. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your trucking company located near a warehouse district, a construction area, an industrial distict, etc. Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Logistics industry publications
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your trucking business, including cleaning the truck, prepping the shipment any necessary mechanical needs the truck may require, and informing client of location and status updates.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to obtain your XXth client company, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your trucking business to a new location.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your trucking company’s ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company. 

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing trucking businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a trucking company or is experienced in the fleet industry.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you take on one new client at a time or multiple new clients with multiple trucks ? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your trucking business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a trucking business:

• Cost of trucks
• Cost of fuel and transportation overhead
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your truck lease or cost or the areas your trucking business will serve.  

Putting together a business plan for your truck owner operator business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the trucking industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful trucking business.  

Truck Owner Operator Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my truck owner operator business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Truck Owner Operator Business Plan.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of truck owner operator business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a truck owner operator business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of truck owner operator businesses?

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Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to see how Growthink’s business plan consulting services can help you create a winning business.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

How To Write a Winning Owner Operator Business Plan + Template

Creating a business plan is essential for any business, but it can be especially helpful for owner operator trucking businesses who want to improve their strategy and/or raise funding.

A well-crafted business plan not only outlines the vision for your company, but also documents a step-by-step roadmap of how you are going to accomplish it. In order to create an effective business plan, you must first understand the components that are essential to its success.

This article provides an overview of the key elements that every owner operator trucking business owner should include in their business plan.

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What is an Owner Operator Trucking Business Plan?

An owner operator  business plan is a formal written document that describes your company’s business strategy and its feasibility. It documents the reasons you will be successful, your areas of competitive advantage, and it includes information about your team members. Your business plan is a key document that will convince investors and lenders (if needed) that you are positioned to become a successful venture.

Why Write an Owner Operator Trucking Business Plan?

An owner operator trucking business plan is required for banks and investors. The document is a clear and concise guide of your business idea and the steps you will take to make it profitable.

Entrepreneurs can also use this as a roadmap when starting their new company or venture, especially if they are inexperienced in starting a business.

Writing an Effective Owner Operator Business Plan

The following are the key components of a successful owner operator business plan:

Executive Summary

The executive summary of an owner operator business plan is a one to two page overview of your entire business plan. It should summarize the main points, which will be presented in full in the rest of your business plan.

• Start with a one-line description of your owner operator trucking company
• Provide a short summary of the key points in each section of your business plan, which includes information about your company’s management team, industry analysis, competitive analysis, and financial forecast among others.

Company Description

This section should include a brief history of your company. Include a short description of how your company started, and provide a timeline of milestones your company has achieved.

If you are just starting your owner operator trucking business , you may not have a long company history. Instead, you can include information about your professional experience in this industry and how and why you conceived your new venture. If you have worked for a similar company before or have been involved in an entrepreneurial venture before starting your owner operator trucking firm, mention this.

Industry Analysis

The industry or market analysis is an important component of an owner operator business plan. Conduct thorough market research to determine industry trends and document the size of your market. 

Questions to answer include:

• What part of the owner operator trucking industry are you targeting?
• How big is the market?
• What trends are happening in the industry right now (and if applicable, how do these trends support the success of your company)?

You should also include sources for the information you provide, such as published research reports and expert opinions.

Customer Analysis

This section should include a list of your target audience(s) with demographic and psychographic profiles (e.g., age, gender, income level, profession, job titles, interests). You will need to provide a profile of each customer segment separately, including their needs and wants.

For example, an owner operator trucking business’ customers may include businesses that need to transport goods or individuals who need to move their belongings from one location to another.

You can include information about how your customers make the decision to buy from you as well as what keeps them buying from you.

Develop a strategy for targeting those customers who are most likely to buy from you, as well as those that might be influenced to buy your products or owner operator trucking services with the right marketing.

Competitive Analysis

The competitive analysis helps you determine how your product or service will be different from competitors, and what your unique selling proposition (USP) might be that will set you apart in this industry.

For each competitor, list their strengths and weaknesses. Next, determine your areas of competitive differentiation and/or advantage; that is, in what ways are you different from and ideally better than your competitors.

Marketing Plan

This part of the business plan is where you determine and document your marketing plan. . Your plan should be clearly laid out, including the following 4 Ps.

• Product/Service : Detail your product/service offerings here. Document their features and benefits.
• Price : Document your pricing strategy here. In addition to stating the prices for your products/services, mention how your pricing compares to your competition.
• Place : Where will your customers find you? What channels of distribution (e.g., partnerships) will you use to reach them if applicable?
• Promotion : How will you reach your target customers? For example, you may use social media, write blog posts, create an email marketing campaign, use pay-per-click advertising, launch a direct mail campaign. Or you may promote your owner operator trucking business via word-of-mouth marketing.

Operations Plan

This part of your owner operator business plan should include the following information:

• How will you deliver your product/service to customers? For example, will you do it in person or over the phone only?
• What infrastructure, equipment, and resources are needed to operate successfully? How can you meet those requirements within budget constraints?

The operations plan is where you also need to include your company’s business policies. You will want to establish policies related to everything from customer service to pricing, to the overall brand image you are trying to present.

Finally, and most importantly, in your Operations Plan, you will lay out the milestones your company hopes to achieve within the next five years. Create a chart that shows the key milestone(s) you hope to achieve each quarter for the next four quarters, and then each year for the following four years. Examples of milestones for an owner operator trucking business include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include adding new services, expanding into a new geographic market, and hiring new personnel.

Management Team

List your team members here including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to your specific owner operator trucking industry. Include brief biography sketches for each team member.

Particularly if you are seeking funding, the goal of this section is to convince investors and lenders that your team has the expertise and experience to execute on your plan. If you are missing key team members, document the roles and responsibilities you plan to hire for in the future.

Financial Plan

Here you will include a summary of your complete and detailed financial plan (your full financial projections go in the Appendix). 

This includes the following three financial statements:

Income Statement

Your income statement should include:

• Revenue : how much revenue you generate.
• Cost of Goods Sold : These are your direct costs associated with generating revenue. This includes labor costs, as well as the cost of any equipment and supplies used to deliver the product/service offering.
• Net Income (or loss) : Once expenses and revenue are totaled and deducted from each other, this is the net income or loss.

Sample Income Statement for a Startup Owner Operator Trucking Company

Balance sheet.

Include a balance sheet that shows your assets, liabilities, and equity. Your balance sheet should include:

• Assets : All of the things you own (including cash).
• Liabilities : This is what you owe against your company’s assets, such as accounts payable or loans.
• Equity : The worth of your business after all liabilities and assets are totaled and deducted from each other.

Sample Balance Sheet for a Startup Owner Operator Trucking Company

Cash flow statement.

Include a cash flow statement showing how much cash comes in, how much cash goes out and a net cash flow for each year. The cash flow statement should include:

• Cash Flow From Operations
• Cash Flow From Investments
• Cash Flow From Financing

Below is a sample of a projected cash flow statement for a startup owner operator trucking business.

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup Owner Operator Trucking Company

You will also want to include an appendix section which will include:

• Your complete financial projections
• A complete list of your company’s business policies and procedures related to the rest of the business plan (marketing, operations, etc.)
• Any other documentation which supports what you included in the body of your business plan.

Writing a good business plan gives you the advantage of being fully prepared to launch and/or grow your owner operator trucking company. It not only outlines your business vision but also provides a step-by-step process of how you are going to accomplish it.

A well-written business plan is an essential tool for any owner operator trucking business. If you plan to seek financing, investors, or partners, you’ll need a  business plan. Even if you’re not looking for funding, a business plan can still be a helpful tool to organize your thoughts and map out your company’s future.  

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How To Start An Owner-Operator Trucking Business In 10 Steps

Maybe you’ve been working as a company driver for years, and you’re ready to go into business for yourself. Maybe you’re a logistics entrepreneur ready to haul freight alongside an expanding fleet. Either way, you need to know how to start a trucking business as an owner-operator—a task that differs considerably from less independent entries into the industry. This owner-operator startup guide tells you everything you need to know.

(PS: Our interactive checklist helps you organize the information and documents you need when starting a trucking business! Click below to access the tool.)

The Owner-Operator Business: Advantages And Challenges To Consider

There are lots of reasons why experienced drivers and first-time carriers alike may want to start an owner-operator trucking company. Owner-operators enjoy a range of benefits compared to company drivers:

• You get to be your own boss. See a workflow process that can be improved? You’re free to improve it. Rather drive in the evenings than the daytime? Go ahead. When you run the company, you make the rules—and that gives you unmatched flexibility in everything from scheduling to reinvesting your profits.
• You control freight and routes. The flexibility of self-employment allows you to carve out your own niche. You might prefer to stick close to family, operating only on routes that get you home a few times a week. If you’re not comfortable with HAZMAT or refrigerated products, there’s no need to carry them. You pick the freight, too.
• You can configure your truck however you like. Carriers may assign any available vehicle, whether you have an affinity for that truck or not. As an owner-operator, you’re the one buying the equipment. That means you can outfit your rig to provide the ideal driving experience for you.
• You keep 100% of the profits. Rather than working solely for a wage, an owner-operator retains control of the profits. It’s up to you whether you’d like to re-invest in your business or simply take home more of the value your company creates. This may be the top reason company drivers make the move to operating their own business.

Of course, there’s another side to the owner-operator coin. Company drivers have limited, clearly delineated responsibilities. As a business owner, you’ll face a lot of work that employees don’t. The challenges of running your own trucking business include:

• You’re responsible for business management tasks. You may hire a third-party service to help with the day-to-day operations of your business, but as the owner, the buck stops with you. That means you’ll spend a fair portion of your workweek on tasks like compliance, budgeting, quarterly and annual reporting, accounting, fuel tax filings, insurance—the list goes on.
• You bear all the startup costs. Money is the greatest barrier between employment as a company driver and becoming an owner-operator. You’ll need financing to get your operation up and running, and if you don’t have a hefty sum set aside, that may require bank loans—and the considerable paperwork that goes along with them.
• You have to pay all the business-related taxes. This is actually an advantage as well as a disadvantage; business owners realize a lot of tax benefits not available to employees. However, business taxes are more complicated for owners than for earners. You’ll be taxed not just on your salary but also on profits, potentially leading to higher payments overall—and certainly requiring more paperwork.
• Cash flow can be a challenge, especially in the early days of your trucking business. In addition to startup financing, you’ll need to cover expenses while you build up an operating budget. In an industry where customers have 30 or even 60 days to pay their invoices—payment terms described as net-30 or net-60 —that can be a problem. Factoring can step in to bridge the gap. This financial service involves third-party financing that pays your outstanding invoices quickly, collecting later from the customer—but not all factoring services are equally advantageous.

With traditional factoring companies, it’s easy to get bogged down in hidden fees, restrictive contracts, and slow payments. Bobtail provides the solution. Open the Bobtail app to enter freight details, upload a bill of lading, and get paid that same day (or the following day if you upload your information in the evening). There’s just one low factoring fee, with no hidden costs, and Bobtail accounts are contract-free. It’s the simplest and most profitable way to fund your owner-operator business through the early growth stages—and beyond.

Ready to get funding for your owner-operator trucking business? Start factoring with Bobtail today.

The trucking owner-operator: how to get started.

Most new owner-operators are eager to get on the road, but first you have to get your affairs in order. Follow these 10 steps to start your owner-operator business and begin hauling freight as quickly as possible.

1. Obtain a federal tax ID.

The first step toward starting a trucking business in the United States is to register with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). You can accomplish this by filing for an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. The EIN functions like your company’s social security number, allowing you to pay all required federal and state taxes. Luckily, it’s quick and relatively easy to get your EIN. Just use the IRS’ EIN Assistant tool to apply online.

2. Register your business in your state of residence.

You establish your business as a legal entity at the state level. You may operate as a sole proprietor, a limited liability company (LLC), or even a partnership; regardless of which you choose, your state will require registration through the Secretary of State’s office or your state’s business agency. Find the relevant state website with the Small Business Association’s guide , and then follow the instructions to found your business officially.

3. File for a USDOT number.

To haul freight between state lines, most states require you to have a Department of Transportation (DOT) number , assigned by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This unique number identifies your business for federal safety monitoring, audits, inspections, and other regulatory proceedings. Get your USDOT number through FMCSA’s United Registration System.

4. Apply for Operating Authority with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Along with the USDOT number, FMCSA requires most carriers to obtain Authority to Operate, indicated by the designation of a Motor Carrier (MC) number. The fee for this authorization is currently $300, and you can apply through the United Registration System on the FMCSA website, the same tool you use to get the USDOT number.

5. Sign up for the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse and maintain DOT compliance.

Both FMCSA and DOT require CDL holders to register with the Commercial Driver’s License Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. Additionally, you will need to join a drug and alcohol testing consortium, which will place you in a random testing pool to ensure ongoing compliance. You must also maintain a Driver Qualification File (DQF) with initial documents and ongoing updates, including but not limited to pre-employment drug screening, passing an annual DOT physical, maintaining an active CDL-A license, and reviewing driving records.

6. Complete a successful New Entrant Safety Audit with FMCSA.

At some point in the first 12 months of your new operation, your business must pass a Safety Audit through FMCSA. In order for your DOT number to remain active, you must remain compliant. Any violations found can involve hefty fines and your business can be put out of service until issues are resolved. Contact FMCSA through its Safety Audit information page for more information on preparing for this step.

7. Secure a license with the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA).

The International Fuel Tax Agreement simplifies the collection and payment of fuel use taxes across states and in the Canadian provinces bordering the U.S. An IFTA license allows you to engage in interstate travel while paying a single quarterly tax on fuel, no matter where the purchase takes place. Apply for an IFTA license through your state’s relevant agency, which IFTA refers to as a “base jurisdiction.” Find your base jurisdiction with IFTA’s locator tool.

8. Buy or lease a rig and license it.

Leasing a truck—essentially renting for a set term—involves fewer up-front costs than buying a truck outright. If you can afford a down payment, on the other hand, buying your rig could save you money in the long run. Either way, you’ll need a dependable, fully licensed vehicle to get your owner-operator trucking business up and running.

9. Insure your operation.

In order to insure your truck and your business, you’ll need to complete the preceding steps. Regulatory bodies from states to FMCSA place minimum insurance requirements on carriers; talk to an insurance professional for details in your area. Different insurers may provide varying rates, so it pays to shop around, starting with a simple internet search for “commercial truck insurance.”

10. Install an FMCSA-certified Electronic Logging Device (ELD) in your cab.

Drivers must keep records of duty service (RODS) that track driving time, hours of service (HOS), and other performance data. Since 2019, U.S. law requires drivers to use ELDs to maintain these records automatically. Refer to this list of ELDs certified by FMCSA , and install one before your first haul. With these 10 steps complete, you’re ready for the next set of challenges: Finding customers, accepting jobs, and hauling freight—all subjects for later posts. The first step is understanding how to start a trucking business as an owner-operator, and with this information in hand, you’re ready to begin. To keep operating funds flowing quickly as your business grows, call Bobtail at 410-204-2084 for contract-free, full-service factoring.

Born into a family of owner-operators, Gurvir Singh, Co-Founder and COO of Bobtail, gained firsthand experience with the challenges faced by small carriers. Running his own prosperous trucking business, he witnessed countless inefficiencies and unethical practices plaguing the industry. Fueled by a desire to empower fellow truckers, Gurvir embarked on a mission to create accessible and transparent financial services for the trucking community. Bobtail, under Gurvir's leadership, strives to streamline operations, eliminate barriers, and promote fair practices, making it a driving force for positive change in the trucking world.

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Create a Business Plan for Trucking as an Owner Operator

Starting a successful trucking business in 2024 as an owner-operator can be a profitable venture, but it requires careful planning and a solid business plan. Such a plan is essential for any business startup, including being a truck driver, as it outlines the company’s goals, operations, and financial projections. A well-crafted business plan can help secure funding, attract investors, and set your own trucking business on the path to success. You may be able to find a great business plan template by other entrepreneurs out there to act as a roadmap but we will break down some of the key points here. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create a small business plan for your trucking business as an owner-operator.

Determine Your Business Structure

Before you start writing your business plan, you need to determine your business structure. There are several types of business owners, including sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC),and corporation. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is essential to research and determine the best fit for your successful trucking company.

Develop Your Executive Summary

The executive summary is the first section of your trucking company business plan and should provide an overview of your company and its goals. It should be concise and attention-grabbing, highlighting the most critical aspects of your business plan. This section should include your company’s mission statement, business structure, services offered, target market, and financial projections.

Describe Your Company

In the company description section, you will provide a more detailed overview of your trucking business beyond just your business name. You will describe your business’s history, management team, ownership structure, and legal status. You should also highlight your unique selling proposition, the factors that set your business apart from competitors, and how you plan to provide quality services to your potential customers.

Outline Your Services

In the services section, you will describe the types of trucking services you will offer that will give you a competitive advantage, such as long-haul trucking or local deliveries. You should also detail the types of freight you plan to haul and your operating area. It is crucial to be specific about your services, as this will help you target your social media marketing efforts and attract the right clients.

Conduct a Market Analysis

A market analysis is a critical component of your business plan, as it helps you understand your industry, target market, and competitors. In this section, you will research and analyze truckers in your industry, identifying trends, growth opportunities, and potential challenges. You will also identify your target market, including the types of clients you plan to serve and their specific needs. Finally, you will conduct a competitive analysis, identifying your competitors and analyzing their strengths and weaknesses.

Develop a Sales and Marketing Plan

In the sales and marketing strategy section, you will outline your strategy for acquiring and retaining clients. This means how you will find loads on load boards or through a dispatcher to grow your client base. This section should include your pricing strategy, expected profit margin and predicted loss statement, advertising and promotional efforts, and sales goals. It is also essential to outline your bookkeeping, sales process, and include how you will generate leads, qualify prospects, and close sales. Working with a factoring company can also be a beneficial sales tool, as it provides you with access to cash flow and credit check services that can help you grow your business.

Outline Your Financial Plan

The financial plan is a crucial section of your business plan, as it outlines your company’s financial projections and funding requirements. In this section, you will detail your startup costs, operating expenses, and revenue projections. You should also include a cash flow statement, balance sheet, and income statement. It is essential to be realistic and conservative when developing your financial projections, as this will help you attract investors and secure funding.

As a truck owner operator in the trucking industry, creating a solid business plan is crucial for long-term success. Your business plan should include an executive summary, company description, market analysis, operations plan, marketing plan, and financial projections. It should also take into account the unique challenges of the trucking industry, such as fluctuating fuel costs, competition, and changing regulations.

While creating a business plan can seem like a daunting task, there are resources available to help you. A factoring company, for example, can provide valuable assistance in managing cash flow and getting paid on time. Additionally, seeking guidance from industry experts and other successful owner operators can provide insight and inspiration.

By taking the time to create a comprehensive business plan, you can set your trucking business up for success and avoid common pitfalls that lead to failure. With dedication, hard work, and a solid plan in place, you can achieve your goals as an owner operator in the trucking industry.

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Truck Owner Operator Business Plan

The American economy depends heavily on the trucking sector, which is in charge of moving commodities and goods around the nation. Truck owner-operators play a crucial part in this sector, offering both businesses and consumers a useful service.

Thus, are you planning to be a truck operator? If yes, then you need to plan your whole business out.

Need help writing a business plan for your truck owner operator business? You’re at the right place. Our truck owner operator business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write a Truck Owner Operator Business Plan?

Writing a truck owner operator business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

Introduce your Business:

• This section may include the name of your business, its location, when it was founded, the type of truck owner operator business (E.g., dry van trucking, refrigerated trucking), etc.

Market opportunity:

Products and services:.

• For instance, you may include warehousing and distribution as your trucking services.

Marketing & Sales Strategies:

Financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Business Description:

• Dry van trucking
• Refrigerated van trucking
• Expedited trucking
• Specialty trucking
• Explain where your business is located and why you selected the place.

Mission Statement:

Business history:.

• Additionally, If you have received any awards or recognition for excellent work, describe them.

Future Goals:

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

Target market:

• For instance, manufacturers, distributions, and retailers are an ideal target audience for a commercial truck owner-operator business.

Market size and growth potential:

Competitive analysis:, market trends:.

• For instance, the expansion in the e-commerce industry leads to speedy and efficient delivery so mention how will you cope with the demand.

Regulatory Environment:

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your owner operator trucking business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

Describe your services:

Mention the truck owner operator services your business will offer. This list may include services like,

• Full truckload
• Less than truckload
• Expedited shipping
• Warehousing and distribution
• Intermodal transportation
• Some specialized services
• Local delivery
• Flatbed trucking

Describe each service:

Additional services:.

In short, this section of your truck owner operator plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Unique Selling Proposition (USP):

• For example, reliable & on-time delivery, competitive pricing, etc.

Pricing Strategy:

Marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, this section of your truck owner operator business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your business, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

Staffing & Training:

Operational process:.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Founders/CEO:

Key managers:.

• It should include, key executives(e.g. COO, CMO.), senior management, and other department managers (e.g. operations manager, fleet manager, safety & compliance manager, etc.) involved in the business operations, including their education, professional background, and any relevant experience in the industry.

Organizational structure:

Compensation plan:, advisors/consultants:.

• So, if you have any advisors or consultants, include them with their names and brief information about roles and years of experience.

This section should describe the key personnel for your truck owner operator services, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:.

• This exercise will help you understand how much revenue you need to generate to sustain or be profitable.

Financing Needs:

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This sample truck owner operator business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful truck owner operator plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our truck owner operator business plan pdf .

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Frequently asked questions, why do you need a truck owner operator business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful truck owner operator business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your truck owner operator company.

How to get funding for your truck owner operator business?

There are several ways to get funding for your truck owner operator business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

• Bank loan – You may apply for a loan in government or private banks.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loan – SBA loans and schemes are available at affordable interest rates, so check the eligibility criteria before applying for it.
• Crowdfunding – The process of supporting a project or business by getting a lot of people to invest in your business, usually online.
• Angel investors – Getting funds from angel investors is one of the most sought startup options.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your truck owner operator business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your truck owner operator business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your truck owner operator business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any truck owner operator business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software .

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Trucking Business Plan Template

Used 4,872 times

Empower your journey to success with our trucking business plan template, designed as a valuable tool to organize the essentials of your trucking business.

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Created by:

​ [Sender.FirstName] [Sender.LastName] ​

​ [Sender.Company] ​

Prepared for:

​ [Recipient.FirstName] [Recipient.LastName]

​ [Recipient.Company] ​

Company Overview

​ [Sender.Company] is a new trucking firm located in [Sender.StreetAddress] [Sender.City] [Sender.State] [Sender.PostalCode] (Location.Name).

​ [Sender.FirstName] [Sender.LastName] (Founder name), a specialist in trucking and logistics with more than (Number of Years_ years of managerial experience, created the business. As he sets out to launch his own trucking company, [Sender.FirstName] [Sender.LastName] is confident in his capacity to successfully negotiate contracts, manage drivers and personnel, and cut costs.

​ [Sender.Company] will offer a full range of trucking and logistics services to any company or individual needing freight distribution. [Sender.Company] will use cutting-edge technology to ensure that each shipment is dispatched efficiently and with the utmost care.

Services Offered

​ [Sender.Company] has a fleet of over (Number of trucks) freight trucks available for local and long-distance trucking services, each of which is frequently maintained to ensure that clients' goods are delivered on time.

The services that [Sender.Company] will offer:

Dedicated fleet services

Flatbed transportation services

Local distribution services

Logistics services

Warehousing services

Management Team

​ [Sender.Company] will be under the ownership and leadership of (Owner.Name), known for his/her exceptional organizational skills and unwavering commitment to putting the customer first.

(Owner.Name) holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from (University.Name) and boasts an impressive career spanning over two decades in the local trucking industry.

(Staff.Name) will oversee the financial aspects of the accounting department, ensuring meticulous financial management.

(Staff.Name) brings a wealth of experience to the team, having served as the Accounting Manager for a local trucking company for over a decade. Before his/her tenure in the trucking industry, (Staff.Name) was a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) at a respected local tax firm.

Industry Analysis

​ [Sender.Company] conducted a thorough industry study and identified the following facts, which bode well for the business:

Across the country, there are roughly (Number of Truck Drivers) available truck drivers.

The demand for drivers is far greater than the supply, which implies that there is a lot of room for new organizations to recruit people to become truck drivers by offering better incentives than major trucking companies now provide.

A new trend in trucking is the increasing popularity of shorter or local hauls over long-distance hauls.

This is an opportunity for businesses to cater to customers that require short-distance hauls.

Rising fuel costs and greater use of online booking and monitoring technology, which can leave established enterprises behind if they employ obsolete methods, are two problems for trucking sector operators.

New entrants can gain from using cutting-edge technology from the start, offering incentives to drivers to engage with them, and applying cost-effective ways to minimize fuel expenses.

Customer Analysis

​ [Sender.Company] will primarily target the following customer profiles:

Small Business Owners: Providing tailored logistics solutions to support their operations.

Small Manufacturing Companies: Ensuring efficient supply chain management.

Individuals Requiring Freight Transportation: Reliable and cost-effective shipping solutions for personal or occasional needs.

Competitive Analysis

​ [Sender.Company] will face competition from different companies with comparable company profiles.

(Competitor.Name) offers trucking, logistics, freight distribution, and warehousing services. They are located in (Competitor.Location), where they provide local service. (Competitor.Name)'s professional crew ensures that the hauls operate smoothly, relieving the customer of concern about whether their shipments will reach on schedule and in excellent shape.

Competitive Advantages

​ [Sender.Company] holds a competitive edge through the following advantages:

The team comprises friendly, highly qualified trucking and logistics experts with deep industry experience.

Embrace cutting-edge trucking and logistics technology to guarantee meticulous handling and efficient deliveries for each haul.

Unlike larger trucking companies, [Sender.Company] specializes in local distribution and readily accepts small hauls that others may decline.

Marketing Plan

Brand and value proposition.

​ [Sender.Company] stands out by providing distinctive value propositions to its clients:

A dedicated team of highly qualified professionals proficient in a wide range of trucking services.

​ [Sender.Company] harness cutting-edge technology and maintain flexibility to deliver the utmost quality of service to our valued customers.

Promotions Strategy

​ [Sender.Company] has a well-rounded promotions strategy in place to boost its visibility and reach:

(Owner.Name) has cultivated a substantial network of contacts through years of providing exceptional service and expertise. His/Her clients have pledged to continue their partnership with him/her at [Sender.Company] and actively promote the brand through word of mouth and referrals.

Professional Associations and Networking

To expand its client base, [Sender.Company] will join esteemed organizations such as the Texas Trucking Association (TTA) and the American Trucking Association (ATA). The focus will be on building valuable connections within these associations.

Print Advertising

​ [Sender.Company] recognizes the importance of industry publications and will invest in professionally designed print advertisements. These ads will effectively communicate its services and unique value propositions.

Website/SEO Marketing

​ [Sender.Company] will leverage its in-house marketing director, who designed the print ads, to create an informative, well-organized website. The website will comprehensively present the services offered and provide essential contact details.

Pricing Strategy

​ [Sender.Company] is committed to offering competitive pricing that aligns with industry standards, ensuring that their valued customers always perceive exceptional value in their investment when choosing their services.

They provide a range of flexible payment options to accommodate diverse preferences:

1. Payment in Cash or Coins

2. Payment through Point of Sale (POS) Machines

3. Online Bank Transfers via the designated payment portal

4. Mobile Money Payments

Operations Plan

(Owner.Name) will serve as the Co-Owner and President of the company, assuming responsibility for overseeing all staff members and managing client relations.

This well-structured team will contribute significantly to the efficient functioning and success of [Sender.Company] , enabling the [Sender.Company] to provide top-notch services to their clients while maintaining the highest standards of safety and financial integrity.

​ [Sender.Company] is poised to achieve several critical milestones within the next 12 months:

These milestones signify [Sender.Company] 's steady progression towards establishing a thriving trucking business.

Financial Plan

Revenue and cost drivers.

The majority of [Sender.Company] 's revenue will come from transportation services. The following are the primary cost drivers for the company's operations:

Truck leases and maintenance

Lease on business location

Marketing expenses

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

​ [Sender.Company] is seeking (Amount) in debt financing to launch its trucking business. The following is a breakdown of how the funds will be used.

Warehouse build-out: (Amount)

Trucks, equipment, and supplies: (Amount)

Three months of overhead costs (payroll, rent, utilities): (Amount)

Marketing expenses: (Amount)

Working capital: (Amount)

Financial Projections

The company's projected income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement are shown below.

Attach all financial statements for the company.

​ [Recipient.FirstName] [Recipient.LastName] ​

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Trucking Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Trucking Company Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your trucking business plan.

We have helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their trucking companies.

Trucking Business Plan Example

Below is a sample trucking business plan template to help you write a trucking business plan for your own company.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

On The Road Trucking (OTRT) is a new trucking company located in Dallas, Texas. The company was founded by Michael Williams, a trucking and logistics professional who has over 20 years of management experience in trucking and logistics. Michael is confident in his ability to effectively negotiate contracts, oversee drivers and employees, and minimize costs as he ventures out to start his own trucking company. Michael plans on recruiting a team of highly qualified drivers, sales representatives, client relationship managers, and dispatchers to carry out the day-to-day operations of the company.  

On The Road Trucking will provide a comprehensive array of trucking and logistics services for any business or individual in need of freight distribution. OTRT will use the latest technology to ensure that every shipment is distributed efficiently and handled with the best of care. On The Road Trucking will be the ultimate choice in the Dallas, Texas area for customized trucking services.

Product Offering

The following are the services that On The Road Trucking will provide:

• Dedicated fleet services
• Flatbed transportation services
• Local distribution services
• Logistics services
• Warehousing services

Customer Focus

On The Road Trucking will target all businesses and individuals in need of freight services. OTRT will begin by targeting small business owners in need of distribution services and individuals in need of shipping services who may not be able to get service from a larger trucking company because their shipment size is too small. No matter the client, On The Road Trucking will deliver a customer-centric experience where they will customize each shipment to match the customer’s specific requirements. 

Management Team

On The Road Trucking will be owned and operated by Michael Williams. He has recruited another experienced trucking professional and former CPA, Steve Brown to be the CFO of the new company and manage the financial oversight of the accounting department. 

Michael Williams is a graduate of the University of Texas with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. He has been working at a local trucking company for over two decades as a Transportation Manager, and is well-versed in all aspects of the trucking industry. Micheal’s organizational skills and customer-first approach have garnered his reputation for being a cost-effective logistics manager with high standards for customer service. 

Steve Brown has been the accounting manager for a local trucking company for over ten years. Prior to his experience in trucking, Steve worked as a CPA in a local tax firm. Michael relies strongly on Steve’s attention to detail, diligence, and focus on cost-saving solutions.

Success Factors

On The Road Trucking will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Proactive, helpful, and highly qualified team of sales representatives and dispatchers that are able to effectively navigate the journey of both customers and drivers. 
• Customized service that allows for a small business or an individual to have their requirements accommodated. On The Road Trucking takes care of everything from truck inspections and maintenance to scheduling drivers, loading/unloading, and short-and-long range distribution. 
• On The Road Trucking offers the best pricing for customized and small shipments compared to the competition.

Financial Highlights

On The Road Trucking is seeking $300,000 in debt financing to launch its trucking business. The funding will be dedicated towards securing the warehouse and purchasing the trucks. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and association memberships. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Warehouse build-out: $50,000
• Trucks, equipment, and supplies:  $20,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities):  $180,000
• Marketing costs: $30,000
• Working capital:  $20,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for On The Road Trucking.

Company Overview

Who is on the road trucking .

On The Road Trucking is a newly established trucking company in Dallas, Texas. On The Road Trucking will be the most reliable, secure, and efficient choice for small business owners and individuals in Dallas and the surrounding communities. OTRT will provide a personalized approach to trucking services for anyone in need of freight transportation. Their full-service approach includes comprehensive truck driver oversight, short-distance distribution, small shipments, and customized service.   

  On The Road Trucking’s team of professionals are highly qualified and experienced in trucking and logistics operations. OTRT removes all headaches that come with dealing with trucking companies and ensures all issues are taken care off expeditiously while delivering the best customer service.

On The Road Trucking History

OTRT is owned and operated by Michael Williams, a long-time trucking and logistics professional who has a Business Management degree. He worked at a local trucking company for over two decades where he served as Lead Transportation Manager for the last five years, and is well-versed in all aspects of the trucking and transportation industry. Micheal used his industry expertise to reach out to potential customers who may need small-size distribution services that are not offered by larger trucking businesses and letting them know about the services OTRT will offer. 

Since incorporation, On The Road Trucking has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered On The Road Trucking, LLC to transact business in the state of Texas. 
• Identified the target location for the warehouse. 
• Contacted numerous small businesses to let them know about the services that will be offered. 
• Began recruiting drivers, sales representatives, and dispatchers. 

On The Road Trucking Services

The following will be the services On The Road Trucking will provide:

Industry Analysis

As the primary source of land freight distribution in the United States, the trucking industry is a $730B industry. 

There are approximately 900,000 available truck drivers across the country. The demand for drivers is much higher than the supply, which means there is a lot of opportunity for new companies to recruit people to become truck drivers by offering them better incentives than currently being offered by larger trucking companies. Additionally, a new trend in trucking is the increasing popularity of shorter or local hauls compared to long-distance. This poses an opportunity for companies to cater to the customers demanding short-distance hauls. 

Some challenges for trucking industry operators include rising fuel costs and an increased use of online booking and monitoring technology, which can leave traditional companies behind if they are using outdated systems. New entrants can benefit from using the latest technology from the outset, providing drivers with incentives to work with them, and implementing cost-effective solutions to reduce their fuel costs. 

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

On The Road Trucking will target anyone in need of trucking services in Dallas, Texas and surrounding areas. Primarily, the company will target small businesses and individuals that may need local distribution or have small size hauls.  Below is a snapshot of this market.

Customer Segmentation

OTRT will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Small business owners
• Small manufacturing companies
• Individuals in need of freight transportation services

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

On The Road Trucking will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A company description of each competitor is below.  

Texas Truck Services

Texas Truck Services provides trucking services, logistics services, freight distribution, and warehousing services. Located in Dallas, Texas Truck Services offers local service to the Dallas area. Texas Truck Services’s team of experienced professionals assures the hauls are run smoothly, freeing the customer from worry over whether their shipments will arrive on time and in good condition.   

US Trucking & Logistics

US Trucking & Logistics is a Dallas-based trucking and logistics company that provides freight distribution services for small businesses across Texas. The management team is composed of former truck drivers and business management professionals who are familiar with the trucking industry in Texas. US Trucking & Logistics uses electric vehicles to reduce its fuel costs, which allows the company to pass these savings on to its customers.   

Best Trucking

Best Trucking is a trusted Dallas-based trucking company that provides superior trucking and logistics service to customers in Dallas and the surrounding areas. Best Trucking provides shipping, receiving, packaging, and disposal services. The Best Trucking team of logistics experts ensures that each shipment is delivered with the highest security standards and that the entire freight process is smooth and seamless for its customers.   

Competitive Advantage

On The Road Trucking will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

• Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly qualified team of trucking and logistics experts with extensive experience in the field. 
• Use of the latest trucking and logistics technology to ensure each haul is handled with the best of care and delivered efficiently. 
• On The Road Trucking offers local distribution and takes small hauls that may be denied by larger trucking companies. 

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

On The Road Trucking will offer the following unique value propositions to its clientele:

• Highly-qualified team of skilled employees that is able to provide a comprehensive set of trucking services (shipping, receiving, monitoring, short-distance, small hauls).
• Customized approach to freight distribution, leveraging technology and flexibility to provide the highest quality of service to its customers. 

Promotions Strategy 

The promotions strategy for On The Road Trucking is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals Michael Williams has built up an extensive list of contacts over the years by providing exceptional service and expertise to his clients. Once Michael advised them he was leaving to open his own trucking business, they committed to follow him to his new company and help spread the word of On The Road Trucking.

Professional Associations and Networking On The Road Trucking will become a member of Texas Trucking Association (TTA), and American Trucking Association (ATA). They will focus their networking efforts on expanding their client network.

Print Advertising On The Road Trucking will invest in professionally designed print ads to include in industry publications.

Website/SEO Marketing On The Road Trucking will utilize their in-house marketing director that designed their print ads to also design their website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all their services. The website will also list their contact information and provide information for people looking to become drivers. The marketing director will also manage the company’s website presence with SEO marketing tactics so that anytime someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “Dallas trucking company” or “trucking near me”, On The Road Trucking will be listed at the top of the search results.  

The pricing of On The Road Trucking will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive value when purchasing their services. 

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for On The Road Trucking.

Operation Functions:

• Michael Williams will be the Co-Owner and President of the company. He will oversee all staff and manage client relations. Michael has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Steve Brown – Co-Owner and CFO who will be responsible for overseeing the accounts payable, accounts receivable, and managing the accounting department. 
• Beth Davis – Staff Accountant will provide all client accounting, tax payments, and monthly financial reporting. She will report directly to Steve Brown. 
• Tim Garcia – Marketing Manager who will provide all marketing, advertising, and PR for OTRT.
• John Anderson – Safety Manager who will provide oversight on all maintenance and safety inspections of the vehicles and drivers. 

Milestones:

On The Road Trucking will have the following milestones complete in the next six months.

7/1/2022 – Finalize lease on warehouse

7/15/2022 – Finalize personnel and staff employment contracts for the management team

8/1/2022 – Finalize contracts for sales representatives, dispatchers, and initial drivers

9/15/2022 – Begin networking at industry events 

10/22/2022 – Begin moving into On The Road Trucking warehouse and securing trucks

11/1/2022 – On The Road Trucking opens for business

Michael Williams is a graduate of the University of Texas with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. He has been working at a local trucking company for over two decades, most recently as a Transportation Manager, and is well-versed in all aspects of the trucking industry. Micheal’s organizational skills and customer-first approach have garnered his reputation for being a cost-effective logistics manager with high standards for customer service. 

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for On The Road Trucking are the trucking fees they will charge to the customers for their services. Most trucking companies charge a per-mile rate. Average per-mile rates vary, but are typically between $2.30-3.30. 

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff a trucking operation. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, fuel and maintenance for the trucks, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of Trucks in Fleet: 10
• Average Fees per Truck per Month: $20,000
• Warehouse Lease per Year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, trucking business plan faqs, what is a trucking business plan.

A trucking business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your trucking business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your trucking business plan using our Trucking Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Trucking Companies?

There are a number of different kinds of trucking companies, some examples include: For- Hire Truckload Carriers, Less Than Truckload Carriers, Hotshot Truckers, Household Movers and Inter-Modal trucking.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Trucking Business Plan?

Trucking companies are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding. This is true for a business plan for a trucking company and a transportation business plan.

What are the Steps To Start a Trucking Business?

Starting a trucking business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster. 

1. Develop A Trucking Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed trucking business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. Starting a trucking company business plan should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your trucking business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your trucking business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Trucking Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your trucking business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your trucking business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Trucking Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your trucking business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your trucking business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful trucking business:

• How to Start a Trucking Business

Where Can I Get a Trucking Business Plan PDF?

You can download our free trucking business plan template PDF here . This is a sample trucking business plan template you can use in PDF format.

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Rachael Plant

Apr 12, 2023

6 minute read

Fleet Management Blog

How to become a successful owner operator.

Becoming an owner-operator provides drivers with higher earning opportunities and more flexibility in scheduling and hauling. This comprehensive guide to becoming an owner-operator covers key criteria to consider, as well as steps you can take, to find success to establish a successful owner-operator business.

What is an Owner-operator?

The trucking industry has recently been experiencing a dramatic increase in driver shortages due to an aging workforce and lack of interest from younger generations to take up the call of the road. The idea of long hours spent behind the wheel, away from home, in a sedentary environment can be a hard sell for some, but becoming an owner-operator (OO) has some enticing benefits, including "independence/setting own hours, schedule flexibility, and choice of routes/length of haul," according to Land Line . "More than 80% [of OOs] report satisfaction with those aspects of their jobs in addition to the pace of work."

While becoming an OO definitely has its perks, especially for those wanting to remain more independent and maximize schedule flexibility, there’s also the business side to consider. OOs with their own authority own and manage all their own equipment and are responsible for the administrative and financial aspects of running the business, including asset maintenance, fuel, lining up jobs and negotiating contract rates. OOs can also opt to lease with a carrier if they don’t want to tackle the business side of things. While this option provides less flexibility, control and compensation, it does take the administrative burden off.

Owner-operators vs. Fleet Truck Drivers

OOs have more autonomy than fleet truck drivers, who are company employees beholden to their employers guidelines and schedules. There are two types of OOs, those being with or without authority. An OO with authority is a self-employed business owner responsible for the purchasing and maintenance of their truck, as well as contract negotiations, taxes, insurance, booking loads to haul, reconciling expenses and managing profits.

OOs looking to minimize the administrative duties associated with running their own OO business can decide to lease with a carrier. While this option comes with profit reduction, it also provides expense reduction. By leasing with a carrier, OOs can take advantage of fuel and maintenance discounts. OOs who chose to work under a carrier’s authority should be prepared for less autonomy when it comes to scheduling, routing, what’s being hauled and adhering to the carrier’s rules and guidelines. That said, OOs working under a carrier’s authority don’t have to worry about the logistics of finding loads to haul or negotiating contracts.

Unlike OOs, fleet truck drivers are employed by companies that provide them with equipment and handle truck fleet maintenance management . Scheduling and load management are handled by the company, and fleet drivers basically just have to show up and roll. Similar to OOs without authority, fleet truck drivers are beholden to any company guidelines and safety policies.

Owner-operator vs. Fleet Ownership

OOs are not fleet owners by default; however, OOs have the flexibility to add assets and employees to grow their business, thus establishing an OO as a fleet owner. Fleet owners, whether a company or OO, have the added responsibility of total fleet management in addition to administrative business functions. This includes ensuring all trucks are properly maintained and safe to operate.

Take fleet ownership to the next level

6 Steps to Owner-operator Trucking Success

Anytime you decide to start your own business, there are many factors that need to be considered. If you’re thinking of making the switch from fleet driver to OO — or even just exploring self-employment opportunities — we’ve put together a few steps to help you make a successful transition.

Decide Which Option Makes the Most Sense for You

Before diving into the OO life, it’s important to understand the amount of effort that goes into it. From starting a business and procuring a truck to building relationships with the carriers and managing daily tasks and finances, becoming an OO is a lot of work. Establishing just how much of the business side you want to undertake is a great first step in deciding whether OO with authority is the right choice for you, or whether you think leasing under a carrier is more ideal. Additionally, evaluating the available capital you have to purchase all the necessities is crucial to OO success, so determining how much you can put down and what financing will look like can help get you started on the right foot. If you end up deciding to go the OO with authority route, don’t forget you must apply for a motor carrier number.

Make a Business Plan

When procuring capital to start your OO business, chances are you’ll need to have a business plan ready — although even if it’s not required, it’s a very good thing to have. A business plan helps investors understand your business and who you serve, how and why you’re qualified to run the specific type of business and your profit projections. According to owner-operator trucking software company TruckingOffice , a solid OO business plan includes an executive summary, company overview, marketing plan, goals and milestones, staff list and financial plan.

Get the Appropriate Driving and Business Licensing

OOs must have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) firstly, but also need to invest in business licensing. To start your OO business, you’ll need to know what business structure is most appropriate for you, including sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC) or corporation. Each business structure has its own pros and cons and criteria for application, so be sure to research thoroughly to better decide what’s right for you.

Apply for a USDOT Number

Only after you’ve started your OO business can you apply for a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), businesses "that operate commercial vehicles transporting passengers or hauling cargo in interstate commerce must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT Number. Also, commercial intrastate hazardous materials carriers who haul types and quantities requiring a safety permit must register for a USDOT Number."

Procure a Truck and the Appropriate Insurance

OOs may choose either to lease or purchase a truck based on which option is the most financially viable and meets long-term goals. Regardless of which you choose, you are responsible for purchasing liability insurance (mandated) and any other insurance you’d like to add for extra protection, such as personal property and cargo insurance.

Invest in Trucking Technology for Compliance and Business Management

While not all types of trucking technology are mandatory, having an FMCSA-approved electronic logging device (ELD) is. In addition to securing your ELD, it’s worth looking into trucking management solutions to help manage logistics. Trucking management solutions help streamline scheduling, routing and invoicing to ensure you’re getting the amount and type of jobs you prefer while getting paid on time and hassle-free. Trucking management solutions provide OOs with features like trucking cost per mile calculators and maintenance management features like customizable pre-trip inspection checklists and service history reporting.

Find out how Fleetio can help you grow a successful owner-operator fleet. Start your free trial or request a personalized demo today!

About the Author

Content Marketing Specialist

Rachael Plant is a Content Marketing Specialist at Fleetio whose automotive background spans from managing auto parts inventories to overseeing fleet-specific editorial in national trade publications. She resides deep in the middle-of-nowhere Alabama with her two dogs and, thankfully, reliable GPS.

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Discover the Best Tools for Business Plans

Learn from the business planning experts, resources to help you get ahead, how to write a trucking company business plan, navigate your way to success, the ultimate guide to planning your trucking company.

Elevate your trucking business plan with our expert-curated resources. This guide provides the tools and insights you need to secure funding, gain approval, and build a strong foundation for your company.

Who is this for?

8 key things to do before you begin writing your trucking company business plan.

Listen up, aspiring trucking tycoons. If you want to make it in this cutthroat industry, you need a business plan that’s as solid as a Peterbilt (not that we don’t love Kenworth). The trucking industry is the backbone of the American economy, hauling a whopping 70% of the country’s freight tonnage . But before you start revving your engines, there are eight crucial things you need to consider.

#1 Regulatory Environment and Compliance 

The trucking industry is a minefield of federal and state regulations, with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) calling the shots on everything from safety standards to driver qualifications. Understand the federal and state licensing requirements, including the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) for your drivers and any special endorsements needed. You’ll need to apply for and receive motor carrier authority from the FMCSA, including a U.S. Department of Tra n sportation (USDOT) number and, if applicable, an MC number . And don’t forget about each state’s unique set of hoops you’ll need to jump through to get your trucks on the road. It’s a compliance nightmare, but if you don’t play by the rules, you’ll be slapped with fines faster than you can say “DOT inspection.”

#2 Market and Niche 

The trucking industry is like a Vegas buffet – there’s something for everyone. From dry vans and flatbeds to reefers and tankers, you need to identify your niche and stake your claim. Conduct market research like you’re planning a military campaign, and analyze your target customers’ needs and pain points. The more specialized your services, the more money you can charge, but be prepared to navigate the extra red tape that comes with hauling hazardous materials or oversized loads.

#3 Competition 

You can’t dominate the trucking game without knowing your competition. Identify the top dogs in your niche and dissect their strengths, weaknesses, and pricing strategies like a biology student in a frog lab. Look for gaps in the market that you can exploit, and don’t forget about indirect competitors like rail and air freight. They may not be in your rearview mirror, but they can still put the brakes on your growth.

#4 Start-Up Costs and Financial Needs 

Starting a trucking company isn’t for the faint of heart or the light of wallet. You’ll need to drop some serious cash on Startup & Operational Costs (e.g., trucks, trailers, and a place to park them). And don’t forget about the ongoing expenses like fuel, maintenance, and driver salaries. It’s like playing whack-a-mole with your bank account. Crunch the numbers, develop detailed financial projections, and explore financing options like loans, investors, or leasing programs.

#5 Fleet Operations 

To lease or to buy, that is the question. Leasing offers flexibility and lower upfront costs, while buying gives you more control and potential long-term savings. But don’t skimp on maintenance and technology. Invest in fleet management software from companies like Samsara , Verizon Connect , or Omnitracs to keep your trucks running like Swiss watches and your drivers compliant with ELD mandates .

#6 Human Resources Strategy 

The Organizational Structure of your drivers and staff is the heart and soul of your operation. Recruit and retain top talent with competitive pay, benefits, and a company culture that makes them feel like they’re part of something bigger than just a paycheck. And don’t neglect ongoing training and development, especially when it comes to safety and compliance.

#7 Marketing and Sales Strategy 

You can have the best trucks and drivers in the business, but if no one knows about you, you’ll be spinning your wheels. Develop a marketing and sales strategy that targets your ideal customers and showcases your unique value proposition. Network like a politician at industry events, leverage digital marketing, and build a website that’s as impressive as a chrome-plated Kenworth (see, I told you we love Kenworth).

#8 Safety and Risk Management 

In the trucking industry, safety isn’t just a priority – it’s a matter of life and death. Implement a comprehensive safety program that includes regular vehicle inspections, driver training, and accident prevention measures. Stay on top of FMCSA regulations and maintain high safety standards to keep your insurance costs down and your reputation up.

Writing a trucking company business plan is no Sunday drive, but if you address these eight critical areas, you’ll be well on your way to building a fleet empire that would make even the most seasoned road warriors tip their hats. And if you really want to shift your planning into high gear, check out the Model-Based Planning® Worksheet for Logistics and Delivery Service . It’s like having a GPS for your business, guiding you through the specific challenges of the trucking industry and helping you unlock insights that will leave your competition in the dust. So, grab a cup of coffee, roll up your sleeves, and start crafting a business plan that will pave the way to your trucking success. The open road is calling, and it’s time to answer.

The Power of a Killer Trucking Company’s Business Plan

If you want to make a serious dent in this industry, you need a business plan. And I’m not talking about some half-baked document that you threw together between coffee breaks. I’m talking about a comprehensive, no-nonsense plan that showcases your trucking company’s potential and makes financiers sit up and pay attention.

The Must-Haves of Your Trucking Company Business Plan

Here’s what you need to include in your kick-ass trucking company business plan:.

Executive Summary

This is your elevator pitch on steroids. Give investors the CliffsNotes version of your trucking company’s vision, unique value proposition, and why you’re the one to watch in this space.

Market Analysis

Dive into the nitty-gritty of the trucking industry. Who’s your target audience? Who are your competitors, and how are you going to outmaneuver them? Show that you’ve done your homework and have a pulse on the market.

Services & Specialization

What sets your trucking company apart? Are you the go-to for hazardous material transport, the gurus of last-mile delivery, or the sultans of LTL shipping? Spell it out, and don’t be afraid to toot your own horn.

Operational Strategy

Give financiers a peek under the hood of your trucking company’s operations. From your fleet management strategy to your technology stack, prove that you’ve got the chops to run a tight ship.

Marketing & Sales

How are you going to get the word out and keep clients coming back for more? Lay out your marketing and sales game plan, including your social media strategy, content marketing approach, and any partnerships you’ve got up your sleeve.

Management Team

Introduce the rock stars who’ll be leading your trucking company to glory. Highlight their track record, industry connections, and why they’re the dream team you need to succeed.

Financial Projections

Don’t be shy about the numbers. Present your financial projections, including startup costs, revenue targets, and profitability timeline. Prove that your trucking company is a money-making machine waiting to happen.

Include any extra goodies that’ll give your business plan an edge, such as market research, customer case studies, or letters of intent from potential clients.

Sweat the Small Stuff or Get Ready for a Cash Flow Nightmare

When you’re putting together your business plan, it’s easy to get seduced by the sexy stuff, like the rig you’re going to buy or market dominance. But if you don’t sweat the small stuff, you’re setting yourself up for a world of hurt. I’m talking about the nickels and dimes that can bleed your cash flow dry. That busted alternator? That’s a couple grand. New tires? Another few grand. And if you’re rolling the dice on some used clunker with no warranty? You better have a rainy day fund that can cover a new engine or transmission when (not if) they decide to crap out on you in the middle of BFE. Ignore the little things at your own peril.

Ready, Set, Pre-Plan!

If you’re a rookie in the trucking game, chances are you’re feeling like a deer in the headlights. You’ve got a idea but no clue how to make it a reality. Enter Businessplan.com’s Pre-Planning Process . With the Pre-Planning Process, you’ll have a step-by-step plan to take your trucking company from an idea to a money-making machine. Don’t start your engines without it.

The Pre-Planning Process for Trucking Company Founders

Starting a trucking company is not for the faint of heart. It requires grit, determination, and a whole lot of planning. That’s where our Pre-Planning Process comes in. This comprehensive, step-by-step approach is designed specifically for founders who have the inklings of an idea but more questions than answers. Let’s dive in.

Plan Your Financial Future

The Pre-Planning Process is your secret weapon for trucking company success.

Know Your Customer 

Before you hit the gas on your trucking company, you need to know who you’re serving . We’ll teach you how to conduct in-depth interviews with your competitors’ customers to uncover their jobs-to-be-done. By understanding their pain points, goals, and expectations, you’ll be able to tailor your services to meet their needs and stand out in a crowded market. 

Core Cost Analysis 

Trucking is a capital-intensive business. From trucks and trailers to fuel and maintenance, the expenses can add up quickly. Our Core Cost Analysis will help you identify the essential assets and expenses you’ll need to get the job done for your customers. By understanding your costs upfront, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about pricing, financing, and scaling your business. 

Business Model Development 

Most truckers wing their business model, but not you. You’ll use the Business Model Canvas to structure every aspect of your trucking company, from your value proposition to your revenue streams. We’ll guide you through the process of creating a business model that’s built to last, so you can focus on what you do best: hauling freight and serving your customers. 

Operations in Detail 

Lack of an operational plan is the silent killer of trucking companies. In this section, we’ll teach you how to dissect your key activities, resources, and partners to create a well-oiled machine. From dispatch and fleet management to maintenance and compliance, you’ll have a clear plan for every aspect of your operations . 

Startup and Operational Cost Analysis 

Now that you’ve done the hard work of understanding your customers, costs, business model, and operations, it’s time to crunch the numbers. Our Startup and Operational Cost Analysis will help you account for every penny, so you can get started on the right foot and keep your business running smoothly. We’ll provide you with the tools and templates you need to create detailed financial analyses and make informed decisions about your business.

By following these five steps, you’ll be able to create a solid foundation for your business, avoid common pitfalls, and set yourself up for long-term growth. Don’t leave your trucking company’s future to chance. Invest in the Pre-Planning Process today and start building the business of your dreams.

Get Up to Speed FAST!

Unsure where to start.

Actually Writing a Killer Trucking Company Business Plan

Our no-nonsense resources will guide you through the treacherous waters of crafting a business plan that’ll make financiers salivate. 

Learn to Plan and Pitch Like a Pro

Head over to the Plan & Pitch section and start writing your own damn success story.

Know Your Audience or Else 

You can’t just vomit out a generic business plan and expect everyone to love it. Tailor your pitch to make banks, investors, regulators, partners, and landlords weak in the knees. If you can’t customize your message, you’re dead in the water. 

Model-Based Planning®

Your Secret Sauce Model-Based Planning® is like steroids for your trucking company concept. It’ll help you sharpen your edge and crush the competition. If you’re not using it, you’re bringing a knife to a gunfight. 

StorytellingMake ‘Em Beg for More 

Weave your vision, strategy, and USP into a narrative so compelling, people will be throwing cash at you just to hear more. If your story falls flat, your business will too. 

Market Analysis: Know Your Battlefield 

You can’t dominate the trucking industry if you don’t know what you’re up against. Dive deep into market analysis , or risk being blindsided by competitors and trends you never saw coming. 

Scope out the landscape.

Org Structure: Show ‘Em Who’s Boss 

Nobody wants to invest in a team that couldn’t organize a keg party. Chart out your org structure and craft team bios that scream, “We’re the best in the damn business.” 

Financial Projections: Make It Rain 

If your financial projections are a joke, investors will laugh you out of the room. Get your numbers tight if you want to secure funding and keep your trucking empire afloat. 

Strategy & Implementation: Execute or Be Executed 

A business plan without a killer strategy and implementation section is like a truck with no engine. Show ’em how you’ll conquer marketing, sales, and customer delight, or prepare to be roadkill. 

Pitch Deck & Finances: Seal the Deal 

You could have the best damn trucking company in the world, but if your pitch deck stinks and your finances are a mess, you’ll crash and burn. Master the art of the pitch and the science of financial management, or go home.

Unlock Your Trucking Empire's Potential

Your key to trucking industry domination.

Introducing the Expert Business Planning Bundle, a comprehensive toolkit curated specifically for trucking company entrepreneurs. With the Model-Based Planning® Worksheet, financial projection Excel model, trucking company-specific business plan template, and expert guides on leveraging these tools and AI, you’ll have everything you need to create a winning plan. Don’t just dream about your trucking empire – invest in your future and make it a reality.

Outmaneuver the Competition

Your trucking company planning toolkit.

Created by the top business planning team in the U.S. with a proven track record of success, this bundle equips you with expert resources and insider secrets specific to trucking company planning. Leverage these tools to create a standout business plan that sets you apart from the competition and positions your trucking company for long-term success.

With this bundle, you will:

• Gain access to insider knowledge and proven strategies used by the most successful business planning company in the U.S.
• Leverage expert resources tailored specifically to the trucking industry for a competitive edge
• Utilize a trucking-specific template filled with targeted pro tips, insights, and instructions that address unique industry challenges
• Streamline your planning process using the Model-Based Planning® Worksheet for Logistics and Delivery Service
• Create professional financial projections with the included Excel model
• Structure and organize your plan effectively with the curated trucking-focused business plan template
• Learn to develop a compelling and comprehensive plan using expert guides on leveraging these tools and AI
• Increase your chances of securing loans, investments, or approvals needed to bring your trucking vision to life

Use this bundle as your primary toolkit for crafting a trucking company business plan that unlocks the funding and support you need.

When it comes to crafting a successful trucking company business plan, relying on generic templates is a recipe for failure. Instead, invest in the Expert Business Planning Bundle – a toolkit carefully curated by industry experts who have spent their careers helping trucking businesses succeed.

No other resource can match the depth, breadth, and practical wisdom of this bundle. Our team has distilled thousands of hours of experience working with successful trucking companies into a comprehensive toolkit that saves you time, money, and prevents costly mistakes. With targeted, practical knowledge tailored specifically to the trucking industry, you’ll be able to write a business plan that surpasses what even the best consultants could produce, customized to your unique needs and goals.

Whether you’re seeking funding, approvals, or simply want to set your trucking business up for long-term success, the Expert Business Planning Bundle is the ultimate resource to help you achieve your vision. Don’t settle for less when it comes to your business’s future.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How can I tailor my trucking company business plan to attract potential investors?

To appeal to investors, highlight aspects that demonstrate profitability, scalability, and your competitive edge in the trucking industry. Emphasize your management team’s experience and expertise in logistics, fleet management, and business growth. Showcase financial projections, market analysis, and strategic partnerships that position your trucking company for long-term success and returns on investment.

• What information should I include in the business description section of my trucking company business plan?

Provide a comprehensive overview of your trucking company, including your concept, target market, service offerings, and unique selling points. Discuss your location, fleet design, and how your business fits into the current market landscape. Highlight your differentiators, such as specialized equipment, advanced technology, or eco-friendly practices. Articulate your vision for making an impact on the trucking industry.

• How much personal information should I share about my management team in the trucking company business plan?

Include succinct biographies of your key management team members, focusing on their relevant experience in the trucking industry, skills in logistics management, and contributions to the company’s success. Highlight their expertise in areas such as fleet optimization, driver training, and customer service. Avoid excessive personal details and keep the information professional and relevant to your trucking business.

• Should I highlight past success stories in my trucking company business plan?

Absolutely! Including past success stories enhances your credibility and appeals to banks, investors, or other stakeholders. Highlight how your team’s experiences in the trucking industry have equipped you with valuable skills and insights for your current venture. Discuss successful logistics projects, efficient fleet management, or strong client relationships that demonstrate your ability to navigate challenges and drive growth in the trucking sector.

• What are the key elements of a company overview in a trucking business plan?

Your company overview should summarize the essence of your trucking business, including its name, location, and the transportation services you provide. Outline your mission statement, emphasizing your commitment to reliability, safety, and customer satisfaction. Discuss your core values, such as integrity, professionalism, and innovation. Clearly state your long-term objectives, such as expanding your fleet, entering new markets, or implementing cutting-edge logistics technology.

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How to write a business plan for a truck owner-operator company?

Writing a business plan for a truck owner-operator company can be an intimidating task, especially for those just starting.

This in-depth guide is designed to help entrepreneurs like you understand how to create a comprehensive business plan so that you can approach the exercise with method and confidence.

We'll cover: why writing a truck owner-operator company business plan is so important - both when starting up, and when running and growing the business - what information you need to include in your plan, how it should be structured, and what tools you can use to get the job done efficiently.

Let's get started!

In this guide:

Why write a business plan for a truck owner-operator company?

• What information is needed to create a business plan for a truck owner-operator company?
• What goes in the financial forecast for a truck owner-operator company?
• What goes in the written part of a truck owner-operator company business plan?
• What tool can I use to write my truck owner-operator company business plan?

Being clear on the scope and goals of the document will make it easier to understand its structure and content. So before diving into the actual content of the plan, let's have a quick look at the main reasons why you would want to write a truck owner-operator company business plan in the first place.

To have a clear roadmap to grow the business

Small businesses rarely experience a constant and predictable environment. Economic cycles go up and down, while the business landscape is mutating constantly with new regulations, technologies, competitors, and consumer behaviours emerging when we least expect it.

In this dynamic context, it's essential to have a clear roadmap for your truck owner-operator company. Otherwise, you are navigating in the dark which is dangerous given that - as a business owner - your capital is at risk.

That's why crafting a well-thought-out business plan is crucial to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of your venture.

To create an effective business plan, you'll need to take a step-by-step approach. First, you'll have to assess your current position (if you're already in business), and then identify where you'd like your truck owner-operator company to be in the next three to five years.

Once you have a clear destination for your truck owner-operator company, you'll focus on three key areas:

• Resources: you'll determine the human, equipment, and capital resources needed to reach your goals successfully.
• Speed: you'll establish the optimal pace at which your business needs to grow if it is to meet its objectives within the desired timeframe.
• Risks: you'll identify and address potential risks you might encounter along the way.

By going through this process regularly, you'll be able to make informed decisions about resource allocation, paving the way for the long-term success of your business.

To get visibility on future cash flows

If your small truck owner-operator company runs out of cash: it's game over. That's why we often say "cash is king", and it's crucial to have a clear view of your truck owner-operator company's future cash flows.

So, how can you achieve this? It's simple - you need to have an up-to-date financial forecast.

The good news is that your truck owner-operator company business plan already includes a financial forecast (which we'll discuss further in this guide). Your task is to ensure it stays current.

To accomplish this, it's essential to regularly compare your actual financial performance with what was planned in your financial forecast. Based on your business's current trajectory, you can make adjustments to the forecast.

By diligently monitoring your truck owner-operator company's financial health, you'll be able to spot potential financial issues, like unexpected cash shortfalls, early on and take corrective actions. Moreover, this practice will enable you to recognize and capitalize on growth opportunities, such as excess cash flow enabling you to expand to new locations.

To secure financing

Whether you are a startup or an existing business, writing a detailed truck owner-operator company business plan is essential when seeking financing from banks or investors.

This makes sense given what we've just seen: financiers want to ensure you have a clear roadmap and visibility on your future cash flows.

Banks will use the information included in the plan to assess your borrowing capacity (how much debt your business can support) and your ability to repay the loan before deciding whether they will extend credit to your business and on what terms.

Similarly, investors will review your plan carefully to assess if their investment can generate an attractive return on investment.

To do so, they will be looking for evidence that your truck owner-operator company has the potential for healthy growth, profitability, and cash flow generation over time.

Now that you understand why it is important to create a business plan for a truck owner-operator company, let's take a look at what information is needed to create one.

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Information needed to create a business plan for a truck owner-operator company

Drafting a truck owner-operator company business plan requires research so that you can project sales, investments and cost accurately in your financial forecast, and convince the reader that there is a viable commercial opportunity to be seized.

Below, we'll focus on three critical pieces of information you should gather before starting to write your plan.

Carrying out market research for a truck owner-operator company

Carrying out market research before writing a business plan for a truck owner-operator company is essential to ensure that the financial projections are accurate and realistic.

Market research helps you gain insight into your target customer base, competitors, pricing strategies and other key factors which can have an impact on the commercial success of your business.

In particular, it is useful in forecasting revenue as it provides valuable data regarding potential customers’ spending habits and preferences.

This information can then be used to create more accurate financial projections which will help investors make informed decisions about investing in your truck owner-operator company.

Developing the marketing plan for a truck owner-operator company

Before delving into your truck owner-operator company business plan, it's imperative to budget for sales and marketing expenses.

To achieve this, a comprehensive sales and marketing plan is essential. This plan should provide an accurate projection of the necessary actions to acquire and retain customers.

Additionally, it will outline the required workforce to carry out these initiatives and the corresponding budget for promotions, advertising, and other marketing endeavours.

By budgeting accordingly, you can ensure that the right resources are allocated to these vital activities, aligning them with the sales and growth objectives outlined in your business plan.

The staffing and equipment needs of a truck owner-operator company

As you embark on starting or expanding your truck owner-operator company, having a clear plan for recruitment and capital expenditures (investment in equipment and real estate) is essential for ensuring your business's success.

Both the recruitment and investment plans must align with the timing and level of growth projected in your forecast, and they require appropriate funding.

A truck owner-operator company might incur the cost of hiring a driver, which could include wages, benefits, and taxes, as well as the cost of purchasing and maintaining a truck, such as fuel, insurance, and repairs. The company might also need to pay for any additional equipment needed, such as a trailer or a GPS system.

To create a realistic financial forecast, you also need to consider other operating expenses associated with the day-to-day running of your business, such as insurance and bookkeeping.

With all the necessary information at hand, you are ready to begin crafting your business plan and developing your financial forecast.

What goes into your truck owner-operator company's financial forecast?

The financial forecast of your truck owner-operator company will enable you to assess the profitability potential of your business in the coming years and how much capital is required to fund the actions planned in the business plan.

The four key outputs of a financial forecast for a truck owner-operator company are:

• The profit and loss (P&L) statement ,
• The projected balance sheet ,
• The cash flow forecast ,
• And the sources and uses table .

Let's take a closer look at each of these.

The projected P&L statement

The projected P&L statement for a truck owner-operator company shows how much revenue and profit your business is expected to make in the future.

A healthy truck owner-operator company's P&L statement should show:

• Sales growing at (minimum) or above (better) inflation
• Stable (minimum) or expanding (better) profit margins
• A healthy level of net profitability

This will of course depend on the stage of your business: numbers for a startup will look different than for an established truck owner-operator company.

The forecasted balance sheet of your truck owner-operator company

The projected balance sheet of your truck owner-operator company will enable the reader of your business plan to assess the overall financial health of your business.

It shows three elements: assets, liabilities and equity:

• Assets: are productive resources owned by the business, such as equipment, cash, and accounts receivable (money owed by clients).
• Liabilities: are debts owed to creditors, lenders, and other entities, such as accounts payable (money owed to suppliers).
• Equity: includes the sums invested by the shareholders or business owners and the profits and losses accumulated by the business to date (which are called retained earnings). It is a proxy for the value of the owner's stake in the business.

Analysing your truck owner-operator company projected balance sheet provides an understanding of your truck owner-operator company's working capital structure, investment and financing policies.

In particular, the readers of your plan can compare the level of financial debt on the balance sheet to the equity value to measure the level of financial risk (equity doesn't need to be reimbursed, while financial debt must be repaid, making it riskier).

They can also use your balance sheet to assess your truck owner-operator company's liquidity and solvency:

• A liquidity analysis: focuses on whether or not your business has sufficient cash and short-term assets to cover its liabilities due in the next 12 months.
• A solvency analysis: takes and longer view to assess whether or not your business has the capacity to repay its debts over the medium-term.

The cash flow forecast

As we've seen earlier in this guide, monitoring future cash flows is the key to success and the only way of ensuring that your truck owner-operator company has enough cash to operate.

As you can expect showing future cash flows is the main role of the cash flow forecast in your truck owner-operator company business plan.

It is best practice to organise the cash flow statement by nature in order to show the cash impact of the following areas:

• Cash flow generated from operations: the operating cash flow shows how much cash is generated or consumed by the business's commercial activities
• Cash flow from investing activities: the investing cash flow shows how much cash is being invested in capital expenditure (equipment, real estate, etc.) either to maintain the business's equipment or to expand its capabilities
• Cash flow from financing activities: the financing cash flow shows how much cash is raised or distributed to financiers

Looking at the cash flow forecast helps you to make sure that your business has enough cash to keep running, and can help you anticipate potential cash shortfalls.

Your truck owner-operator company business plan will normally include both yearly and monthly cash flow forecasts so that the readers can view the impact of seasonality on your business cash position and generation.

The initial financing plan

The sources and uses table or initial financing plan is a key component of your business plan when starting a truck owner-operator company.

It shows where the capital needed to set up the business will come from (sources) and how it will be spent (uses).

This table helps size the investment required to set up the truck owner-operator company, and understand how risks will be distributed between the business owners, and the financiers.

The sources and uses table also highlights what the starting cash position will be. This is key for startups as the business needs to have sufficient funding to sustain operations until the break-even point is reached.

Now that you have a clear understanding of what will go into the financial forecast of your truck owner-operator company business plan, let's have a look at the written part of the plan.

The written part of a truck owner-operator company business plan

The written part of a truck owner-operator company business plan plays a key role: it lays out the plan of action you intend to execute to seize the commercial opportunity you've identified on the market and provides the context needed for the reader to decide if they believe your plan to be achievable and your financial forecast to be realistic.

The written part of a truck owner-operator company business plan is composed of 7 main sections:

• The executive summary
• The presentation of the company
• The products and services
• The market analysis
• The strategy
• The operations
• The financial plan

Let's go through the content of each section in more detail!

1. The executive summary

The executive summary, the first section of your truck owner-operator company's business plan, serves as an inviting snapshot of your entire plan, leaving readers eager to know more about your business.

To compose an effective executive summary, start with a concise introduction of your business, covering its name, concept, location, history, and unique aspects. Share insights about the services or products you intend to offer and your target customer base.

Subsequently, provide an overview of your truck owner-operator company's addressable market, highlighting current trends and potential growth opportunities.

Then, present a summary of critical financial figures, such as projected revenues, profits, and cash flows.

You should then include a summary of your key financial figures such as projected revenues, profits, and cash flows.

Lastly, address any funding needs in the "ask" section of your executive summary.

2. The presentation of the company

The second section in your truck owner-operator company's business plan should focus on the structure and ownership, location, and management team of the company.

The structure and ownership part provides an overview of the legal structure of the business, who the owners are and how much each has invested and owns. If you are seeking financing it is important that the reader gets a clear picture of which legal entity is receiving the funds, and who controls the business.

The location part should give an overview of the premises from which the company is operating, and why that location is of particular interest (catchment area, accessibility, amenities nearby, etc.).

When describing the location of your truck owner-operator company to a third party financier, you may want to emphasize the potential opportunity for growth. Depending on the region, there could be an abundance of potential customers that could benefit from your services. You may also want to describe the potential for favorable taxation and infrastructure in the area. Additionally, you could highlight the potential for access to a wide range of transportation routes, as well as the local availability of resources necessary for success.

Finally, you should introduce the management team. Explain each member's role, background, and experience.

It is also important to emphasize any past successes that the members of the management team have achieved, and how long they've been working together, as this will help potential lenders or investors understand why they should trust in their leadership.

3. The products and services section

The products and services section of your truck owner-operator company business plan should include a detailed description of what your company sells to its customers. 

For example, your truck owner-operator company could offer transportation services, including pickup and delivery of freight and goods to customers. Additionally, you could offer storage services for customers who need a secure location to store their goods, as well as warehousing and inventory management services. Your company could also offer package tracking services that would allow customers to track their shipments in real time. These services would provide customers with reliable and convenient options to transport goods and maintain inventory.

The reader will want to understand what makes your truck owner-operator company unique from other businesses in this competitive market.

When drafting this section, you should be precise about the categories of products or services you sell, the clients you are targeting and the channels that you are targeting them through. 

4. The market analysis

When outlining your market analysis in the truck owner-operator company business plan, it's essential to include comprehensive details about customers' demographics and segmentation, target market, competition, barriers to entry, and relevant regulations.

The primary aim of this section is to give the reader an understanding of the market size and appeal while demonstrating your expertise in the industry.

To begin, delve into the demographics and segmentation subsection, providing an overview of the addressable market for your truck owner-operator company, key marketplace trends, and introducing various customer segments and their preferences in terms of purchasing habits and budgets.

Next, shift your focus to the target market subsection, where you can zoom in on the specific customer segments your truck owner-operator company targets. Explain how your products and services are tailored to meet the unique needs of these customers.

In the competition subsection, introduce your main competitors and explain what sets your truck owner-operator company apart from them.

Finally, round off your market analysis by providing an overview of the main regulations that apply to your truck owner-operator company.

5. The strategy section

When writing the strategy section of a business plan for your truck owner-operator company, it is essential to include information about your competitive edge, pricing strategy, sales & marketing plan, milestones, and risks and mitigants.

The competitive edge subsection should explain what sets your company apart from its competitors. This part is especially key if you are writing the business plan of a startup, as you have to make a name for yourself in the marketplace against established players.

The pricing strategy subsection should demonstrate how you intend to remain profitable while still offering competitive prices to your customers.

The sales & marketing plan should outline how you intend to reach out and acquire new customers, as well as retain existing ones with loyalty programs or special offers. 

The milestones subsection should outline what your company has achieved to date, and its main objectives for the years to come - along with dates so that everyone involved has clear expectations of when progress can be expected.

The risks and mitigants subsection should list the main risks that jeopardize the execution of your plan and explain what measures you have taken to minimize these. This is essential in order for investors or lenders to feel secure in investing in your venture.

Your truck owner-operator company could face financial risks. For example, unexpected costs such as repairs or maintenance may arise, leading to financial instability. Additionally, there could be risks associated with cargo. Cargo may be damaged in transit, leading to legal complications and financial losses.

6. The operations section

The operations of your truck owner-operator company must be presented in detail in your business plan.

The first thing you should cover in this section is your staffing team, the main roles, and the overall recruitment plan to support the growth expected in your business plan. You should also outline the qualifications and experience necessary to fulfil each role, and how you intend to recruit (using job boards, referrals, or headhunters).

You should then state the operating hours of your truck owner-operator company - so that the reader can check the adequacy of your staffing levels - and any plans for varying opening times during peak season. Additionally, the plan should include details on how you will handle customer queries outside of normal operating hours.

The next part of this section should focus on the key assets and IP required to operate your business. If you depend on any licenses or trademarks, physical structures (equipment or property) or lease agreements, these should all go in there.

Your truck, know-how, as well as your brand are likely to be the main key assets of your truck owner-operator company.

Finally, you should include a list of suppliers that you plan to work with and a breakdown of their services and main commercial terms (price, payment terms, contract duration, etc.). Investors are always keen to know if there is a particular reason why you have chosen to work with a specific supplier (higher-quality products or past relationships for example).

7. The presentation of the financial plan

The financial plan section is where we will include the financial forecast we discussed earlier in this guide.

Now that you have a clear idea of what goes into a truck owner-operator company business plan, let's look at some of the tools you can use to create yours efficiently.

What tool should I use to write my truck owner-operator company's business plan?

There are two main ways of creating your truck owner-operator company business plan:

• Using specialized business planning software,
• Hiring a business plan writer.

Using an online business plan software for your truck owner-operator company's business plan

Using online business planning software is the most efficient and modern way to write a truck owner-operator company business plan.

There are several advantages to using specialized software:

• You can easily create your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you without errors
• You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
• You can access a library of dozens of complete business plan samples and templates for inspiration
• You get a professional business plan, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank or investors
• You can easily track your actual financial performance against your financial forecast
• You can create scenarios to stress test your forecast's main assumptions
• You can easily update your forecast as time goes by to maintain visibility on future cash flows
• You have a friendly support team on standby to assist you when you are stuck

If you're interested in using this type of solution, you can try The Business Plan Shop for free by signing up here .

Hiring a business plan writer to write your truck owner-operator company's business plan

Outsourcing your truck owner-operator company business plan to a business plan writer can also be a viable option.

These writers possess valuable experience in crafting business plans and creating accurate financial forecasts. Additionally, enlisting their services can save you precious time, enabling you to concentrate on the day-to-day operations of your business.

It's important to be mindful, though, that hiring business plan writers comes with a cost. You'll be paying not just for their time but also for the software they use, and their profit margin.

Based on experience, a complete business plan usually requires a budget of at least £1.5k ($2.0k) excluding tax, and more if revisions are needed after initial meetings with lenders or investors - changes often arise following these discussions.

When seeking investment, be cautious about spending too much on consulting fees. Investors prefer their funds to contribute directly to business growth. Thus, the amount you spend on business plan writing services and other consulting services should be negligible compared to the amount you raise.

Another aspect to consider is that while you'll receive the output of the business plan, you usually won't own the actual document. It will be saved in the consultant's business plan software, which will make updating the plan challenging without retaining the consultant on a retainer.

Given these factors, it's essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons of outsourcing your truck owner-operator company business plan to a business plan writer and decide what best suits your business's unique needs.

Why not create your truck owner-operator company's business plan using Word or Excel?

Using Microsoft Excel and Word (or their Google, Apple, or open-source equivalents) to write a truck owner-operator company business plan is not advisable. Allow me to explain the reasons.

Firstly, creating an accurate and error-free financial forecast on Excel or any spreadsheet demands technical expertise in accounting principles and financial modelling. Without a degree in finance and accounting and significant financial modelling experience, it's unlikely that the reader will fully trust your numbers.

Secondly, relying on spreadsheets is inefficient. While it may have been the go-to option in the past, technology has evolved, and software now performs such tasks much faster and more accurately.

The second reason is that it is inefficient. Building forecasts on spreadsheets was the only option in the early 2000s, nowadays technology has advanced and software can do it much faster and much more accurately.

And with the rise of AI, software is also becoming smarter at helping us detect mistakes in our forecasts and helping us analyse the numbers to make better decisions.

Moreover, software offers ease in comparing actuals versus forecasts and maintaining up-to-date forecasts for clear visibility on future cash flows, as we discussed earlier in this guide. Such tasks are cumbersome when using spreadsheets.

Now, let's address the written part of your truck owner-operator company business plan. While it may be less prone to errors, using software can significantly boost productivity. Word processors lack instructions and examples for each section of your business plan. They also won't automatically update your numbers when changes occur in your forecast, and they lack automated formatting capabilities.

In summary, while some entrepreneurs may consider Word or Excel for their business plan, it's far from the best or most efficient solution when compared to specialized software.

• Having an up-to-date business plan is key to maintaining visibility on your future cash flows.
• A business plan has 2 parts: a financial forecast highlighting the expected growth, profitability and cash generation of the business; and a written part which provides the context needed to interpret and assess the quality of the forecast.
• Using business plan software is the modern way of writing and maintaining business plans.

We hope that this guide helped you to better understand how to write the business plan for a truck owner-operator company. If you still have questions, do not hesitate to contact us.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

• How to write a 5 years business plan
• What goes on the cover page of a business plan
• Business plan and pitch deck: how do they differ?
• What should you include in your business plan appendices?
• Business plan myths

Know someone who owns or wants to start a truck owner-operator company? Share this article with them!

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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7 Steps in Starting an Owner Operator Trucking Business

• November 13, 2023
• Owner Operator

Are you dreaming of becoming your boss in the world of transportation? Starting an owner operator trucking business might be your ticket to freedom and success. As an owner operator, you can control your destiny, make important business decisions, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. However, setting up your own trucking business involves careful planning and execution. 

In this blog, we’ll guide you through seven steps to help you start your journey as an owner operator in the trucking industry.

Step 1: Write a Business Plan

Every successful business starts with a well-thought-out plan. Your business plan should be detailed and comprehensive. Define your niche in the trucking industry – will you focus on long-haul, regional, or specialized transport? Outline your financial projections, including startup costs, expected income, and expenses. Consider factors like fuel costs, maintenance, insurance, and permits. Your plan should also address marketing strategies, target customers, and competition analysis.

Step 2: Establish Your Company

Next, you’ll need to formally establish your trucking business as a legal entity. This typically involves registering your company with the appropriate government agencies, such as the Secretary of State’s office. In a trucking business, you can operate as a sole proprietorship, LLC, or another business structure that suits your needs.

When you form a corporation or LLC, you will need to take the following steps:

• Appoint a Registered Agent : This registered agent is an individual or entity designated to receive important legal documents and work on behalf of your business. This ensures that you are promptly informed of any legal matters requiring attention.
• Obtain Your EIN (Employer Identification Number) : An EIN, also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, is essential for tax purposes and is often required to open a business bank account. It’s like a social security number for your business and is used to identify your trucking company to the IRS.

Step 3: Obtain Business Licenses and Permits

You’ll need various permits and licenses to operate a trucking business legally. The specific licenses required can vary by location and the nature of your operations, so be sure to research and comply with all local, state, and federal regulations.

These may include:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) : As a truck driver, you’ll need a CDL to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Depending on the cargo type and vehicle you transport, you may also require specific endorsements, such as hazmat or tanker endorsements.
• USDOT Number : The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ( FMCSA ) will issue a USDOT number. This monitors a trucking company’s safety record and compliance with federal regulations.
• Motor Carrier Operating Authority (MC Number) : The MC number is another identifier issued by the FMCSA. It’s necessary for interstate commerce and allows your business to transport goods across state lines.
• BOC-3 Filing : The BOC-3 filing designates an agent who can accept the legal documents on your behalf in each state where you operate. It ensures that you can be served with legal papers in any jurisdiction.
• International Registration Plan (IRP) Credentials and International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) Decal : If your trucking business operates across state lines or in multiple jurisdictions, you’ll need IRP credentials and an IFTA decal. These allow you to apportion registration fees and report and pay fuel taxes accurately.

Step 4: Buy or Lease a Truck

Your truck is your most significant asset as an owner operator . Decide whether to buy or lease your truck, considering your budget, credit history, and long-term goals. Many owner operator companies offer lease-to-own programs that can help you get started with less upfront capital.

• New vs. Used Trucks : Consider whether you want to invest in a new or used truck. New trucks typically come with warranties and advanced technology but are more expensive. Used trucks can be cost-effective but may require more maintenance. Ensure the truck you choose suits the freight you intend to haul.
• Leasing a Truck : Leasing can be an attractive option for those who want to avoid the upfront costs of purchasing a truck. Two types of leases are – finance leases (similar to purchasing) and operating leases (more like renting). Each has its advantages and drawbacks. Operating leases often come with lower monthly payments but may have mileage restrictions and less flexibility.

Step 5: Select the Proper Insurance Coverage

Insurance is essential to protect your trucking business and assets. You’ll need commercial truck insurance that covers your vehicle and cargo. Additionally, consider liability insurance to protect your business from potential lawsuits. You can work with an insurance agent who understands the needs of the owner operator trucking companies is essential.

Step 6: Track Your Income and Expenses

Accurate financial records are crucial for managing your trucking business efficiently. Use accounting software or hiring a professional accountant who specializes in trucking. Diligently track all income, expenses, fuel costs, maintenance, tolls, and taxes. This information will help with tax filing and enable you to make informed business decisions.

Step 7: Find Loads and Grow Your Business

Once your business runs, it’s time to find loads and secure contracts. Building a network of reliable customers and partners is essential. Join load boards and online freight marketplaces to find available loads. Establish strong relationships with shippers, brokers, and other trucking companies. Consistently delivering goods on time and providing excellent service will help you secure repeat business and referrals, facilitating the growth of your operation.

Are You Ready to Start a Trucking Company? 

Before launching your own trucking company, assess your readiness. Partnering with established companies like Quality Carriers can offer numerous benefits. They provide a vast network of clients, competitive pay, safety training, and maintenance support. Plus, they specialize in transporting hazardous materials if you’re interested in that niche. Quality Carriers’ financial stability ensures prompt payments and offers growth opportunities as your business expands. If you’re considering becoming an owner operator and starting a trucking business, consider the advantages of teaming up with Quality Carriers.

In conclusion, starting an owner operator trucking business is an exciting endeavor that offers the potential for financial independence and career control. By following these steps and staying committed to safety and customer service, you can build a successful career in the trucking industry. It’s a journey that starts with a plan and continues with dedication, hard work, and the freedom of the open road.

FAQs about Starting an Owner Operator Trucking Business

Startup costs vary widely but often include the truck’s price, insurance premiums, permits, and initial maintenance expenses. Creating a detailed business plan to estimate your specific costs is essential.

Challenges can include fluctuating fuel prices, maintenance costs, competition, and managing the administrative aspects of the business.

Many financial institutions offer commercial truck loans tailored explicitly to owner operators . These financing loans can help you purchase your truck.

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Owner-Operator Guide: How to Start a Owner-Operator Trucking Business

• OTR Solutions
• March 20, 2023

Have you dreamt of driving big rigs and navigating the open roads – and doing it all on your own terms? It can be a dream come true by launching a trucking business. The prospect of starting an owner-operator trucking company from the ground up can feel overwhelming, but there are many ways that truckers can get started.

In this blog post, we will show you how to start a trucking company – from obtaining the necessary licensing and permits to raising capital for investments. Enjoy the read!

What is an owner-operator trucking business? 

An owner-operator in the trucking business is a truck driver who leases or owns their own truck and/or maintains a small fleet of drivers who operate their own trucks that transport goods and materials for customers. Being an owner-operator provides tremendous flexibility and autonomy. As an owner-operator, you are the sole proprietor of your own business. You get to choose the routes you drive, the schedule you keep and what special offers you will make to customers, just to name a few perks. 

How Much Do Owner-Operators Make?

Working in the owner-operator business can be a lucrative career; the amount of money an individual makes depends largely on their experience, employer and skill level. Most people make between ~$50,000 and $150,000 per year. Those who keep meticulous records of every job they do may qualify for tax deductions that help increase their pay.

OTR Solutions Helps Truckers Make More Money!

At OTR Solutions , we understand that trucking is a tough business. That’s why we offer  true non-recourse freight factoring to help you make the most of every load. With our service, you can get paid right away instead of waiting for 30, 60, or even 90 days for your invoices to clear. 

Contact us today to find out more about what freight factoring can do for your business.

How to Start a Trucking Company – in Just 6 Steps

Starting any business offers many opportunities and possibilities, but only if it is undertaken with a well-thought-out plan. The same applies for starting an owner-operator trucking company .

Below we outline the essential steps to take when pursuing the goal of becoming an owner-operator.  Taking these steps will ensure that you have a solid foundation upon which to build your new trucking business.

1. Research the trucking industry 

Gaining knowledge of the industry will provide insights into how it operates and how to be successful in it. You may also confirm, as you research, that this is indeed the path you want to take – or that it’s not and thank goodness you looked into it more before buying a rig! 

2. Understand the Regulations:

 The key to remaining compliant and avoiding any legal or operational roadblocks in the owner-operator business is proactively performing due diligence on current regulations related to all facets of the operation. Here they are (in no particular order):

Heavy Use Tax – The heavy-highway vehicle use tax applies to any vehicle that eights over 55,0000 pounds or more. You must complete and file tax form 2290 yearly, and pay the Heavy Use tax that will be due at the same time.  For more information on this, visit www.irs.gov   

IFTA Agreement – The International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) was put into place for the purpose of simplifying the reposting of fuel use for truckers across the country. You will need a fuel use license and to file quarterly fuel use tax returns, each and every year within the state your operation is based. If you would like to learn more about this agreement, visit your state’s Department of Transportation website.  

BOC-3 Filing – Registering a BOC-3 form with FMCSA is the way you would obtain interstate operating authority. This designates you as a legal process agent in each of the states that you will be operating in. Vist www.fmcsa.dot.gov for more information about this.   

SCAC Code – You only need an SCAC code if you are a trucker who plans on haul military, government, international or intermodal loads. The National Motor Freight Traffic Association will have more info on this for you.

3. Draft a comprehensive business plan 

This plan should outline all costs associated with beginning your own trucking operation such as buying or leasing trucks, hiring drivers, developing processes for booking freight, purchasing insurance coverage and various other aspects related to trucking operations. 

4. Obtain the necessary credentials 

Here is a list of the credentials you will need to obtain in order to run your own trucking company:

Commercial driver’s license (CDL) – all drivers will need a commercial driver’s license in order to operate heavy trucks. Obtaining a CDL entails an extensive background check, training and passing a written and driving test. Each state has its own set of CDL testing standards. You need to be at least 18 to get a CDL but if you plan to drive to various states you will need to wait until you are 21.

Federal DOT and Motor Carriers Authority Numbers – if you want to haul cargo in the United States you will need both a DOT number and a Motor Carries (MC) Number. The U.S. DOT tracks your safety record and compliance history. The MC number helps to identify the kinds of goods you are permitted to haul. In order to acquire these numbers you will start by registering your business with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). 

Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) – The purpose of the UCR system is to verify that each carrier is covered by the proper insurance. You will register to UCR with your USDOT and MC numbers. If you want to learn more about UCR, you can do so by visiting your state’s Department of Transportation website.

International Registration Plan (IRP) Tag – An IRP Tag, or IRP license, allows you to operate an owner-operator business in all states and even in most Canadian provinces. Learn more about the IRP license by visiting your state’s Department of Transportation website.

5. Round up financial resources to fund your new venture 

This may require applying for loans or seeking out investors, depending on the size and scope of your planned operations,and signing on with a freight factoring company that will keep your cash flowing.

6. Secure operational contracts from clients 

Find clients who need transportation services regularly and consistently, so you can ensure steady cash flow. Partner with us here at OTR Solutions and gain access to unending loads through our mobile app and DAT’s industry-leading load board with pre-approved loads from OTR.

How to find the best freight rates as an owner-operator trucker

An owner-operator can navigate their way to the best freight rates by considering multiple factors and weighing them against each other. Here are some tips for doing so:

• Doing some research to evaluate companies, services provided, lane miles and geographic regions all can help decide which option offers the best cost savings without sacrificing quality or sacrificing volume in order to achieve low rates. 
• Analyze suppliers that offer flat rate shipping. This  can mean avoiding paying for empty miles traveled, allowing cargo space to be taken up quickly because of the low pricing structure this type of vendor offers while still ensuring gear is always filled with paying freight whenever possible. 
• Running a successful business as an owner-operator is hard work, but adhering to practical guidelines when it comes to finding the best freight rates can make a significant difference in improving profit margins.
• Utilize a factoring company like OTR Solutions. We offer the industry’s only true non-recourse factoring program for owner-operators and fleets alike – no hidden fees, no long-term contracts, and no monthly volume minimums. Our toolbelt of solutions offers owner-operators competitive fuel discounts and $0 in-network Fuel Card transaction fees,, quick funding through BOLT Instant Payment , and access to a powerhouse of industry partners to benefit every aspect of business.  

Partner with OTR Solutions

Hopefully, we have taught you everything you wanted to know about how to start a trucking company . Once you have it up and running, most have found that maintaining success requires finding a reliable and reputable freight factoring company that you can partner with. 

OTR Solutions is one such factoring company, dedicated to helping our clients succeed for the long haul. By providing funding for fuel, maintenance, lumpers and other necessary expenses, we allow our clients to keep their trucks on the road and maintain their owner-operator business at a high level. If you are interested in learning more about partnering with us, please contact us today to get started.

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Truck Owner Operator Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Transportation Industry » Trucking

Are you about starting a truck owner operator business? If YES, here is a complete sample truck owner operator business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE .

Although you would need certifications, licenses and college degrees to be able to launch some businesses, but the truth remains that there are also loads of businesses out there that you can launch with just what you have and one of such businesses is to start a truck owner operator business.

This is especially ideal for you if you already own your own truck. All you have to do is to ensure that you equip yourself with the required commercial driver’s license (CDL), business network and the right attitude.

A Sample Truck Owner Operator Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

Truck owner operators operates in the trucking industry and it is a known fact that the trucking industry plays a very important role in the economy of the world; they provide essential services to the united states economy by transporting large quantities of raw materials, machines, equipment, dirt, rocks, building materials, and finished goods over land—typically from manufacturing plants to retail distribution centers and from warehouses to construction sites.

As matter of fact, heavy duty trucks are indispensable in the construction industry. The trucking industry is responsible for the majority of freight movement over land, and they are a major stakeholder in the manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing industries in the United States of America and in other parts of the world.

In the United States, Large trucks and buses drivers require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) before they can be permitted to operate. The activities in the trucking industry is regulated by the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT), the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

They ensure that drivers and trucking companies adhere to safety rules and regulations and also that potential truck drivers undergo special training on how to handle large vehicle before applying and obtaining their commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Statistics has it that food and food products, lumber or wood products, as well as petroleum or coal account for 34.8 percent of truck traffic in the United States and by volume, clay, glass, concrete and stone, farm products, as well as petroleum and coal account for 35.6 percent of truck traffic.

The advancement in technology in areas such as computers, satellite communication, and the internet, has contributed immensely to the growth of the industry. The advancement in technology is responsible for increase of productivity of trucking companies operations, it helps them effectively monitor their trucks and their drivers and it helps driver save time and effort.

The trucking industry is not restricted to trailers or large trucks hauling goods from destination to another via interstate highways, it also involves smaller trucks that help transport smaller quantity of goods from one destination within a city to another destination within same city. Trucking business is not only about transporting goods over a long distance.

As a matter of fact, in the U.S. about 66 percent of truck tonnage moves distances of 100 miles or less; local and regional hauls account for almost half of all truck revenues and are they are the preferred choice for private carriers. No doubt starting and operating a truck owner operator business can be challenging, but the truth is that it can be rewarding at the same time.

One good thing about the industry is that it is open for both big time investors who have the capacity to start the business with fleet of trucks and aspiring entrepreneurs who may one to start with just one truck operating as a truck owner getting deals from haulage companies and from big time trucking companies amongst others.

2. Executive Summary

Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. is a trucking services company that will operate for now as a truck owner operator company with just one standard 40Tons truck, the company will be based in 10548 SD Highway 32 Belle Fourche South Dakota.

We will provide daily freight services (trucking services, moving services & supplies, and bulk material sales & supplies) on one skid to full truckloads to and from South Dakota, North Dakota, Southern Illinois; St Louis, Missouri; Southeast Missouri; Evansville, IN; Nashville, Tennessee; Memphis, Tennessee and Chicago land areas et al.

We will in the nearest future provide cross docking, warehousing, lift gate and specialized van service in South Dakota, North Dakota, Southern Illinois, Southeast Missouri and Western Kentucky.

Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. has been able to secure all relevant licenses and permits to operate throughout the United States and Canada. We will ensure that we abide by the rules and regulations of the trucking industry and when it is time for us to expand the business; we will only hire experienced and qualified drivers with valid commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Our customers and potential customers alike can be rest assured that they will get quality services at competitive rates. We will go the extra mile to ensure the safety of goods under our care and our customers get value for their money.

At Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. our goal is to provide excellent service to our customers and we pride ourselves on the integrity and competence of our company and our employees. Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. will ensure that all our deliveries are on time and we supersede the expectation of our customers.

We will only put trucks that are in top shape on the road, and all our drivers will be trained to be courteous, friendly and to abide by the rules and regulations of the industry. We will maintain and take proper care of our drivers as well as our trucks and equipment.

Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. is a family business; it is owned by Robson Graham and his immediate family members. Robson Graham is a professional truck driver with a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a diploma in Transport and Logistics Management and his has over 5 years of experience in the transportation industry.

Although the company is starting out as a truck owner operator business, but plans are in place to expand the business and operate a fulltime trucking company with more than a handful of fulltime commercial truck drivers.

3. Our Products and Services

Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. is a company that looks forward to deliver excellent services in terms of helping our customers move goods and equipment from one destination to another destination. Even though we are starting out as a truck owner operator business, we want to be known as the trucking company that truly cares for her customers.

We are in the trucking industry to make profits and also to give our customers value for their money. We will ensure that we do all that is permitted by the law in the United States of America to accomplish our business goal and objective. Our business offerings are listed below;

• Moving supplies
• All furniture quilt-wrapped for protection
• On-time pickup and delivery
• Home and office movement
• Local and long distance movement
• Heavy duty equipment movement
• Excavators movement
• Bulldozers movement
• Construction equipment movement
• Agricultural equipment movement
• Movement of oil and gas products

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our Vision is to become one of the preferred choices for individual and organization when it comes to the demand for trucking services in the whole of the United States of America.
• Our mission is to ensure that we build a truck owner operator company cum trucking company that will operate in the whole of the United States of America and Canada; a company that will boast of having some of the best and reliable commercial truck drivers in the whole of the United States of America.

Our Business Structure

Despite the fact that we are starting out with just one 40Tons truck as a truck owner operator company, we will still go ahead to put business structure in place that will accommodate the kind of standard trucking company that we want to build. Our business structure will be designed in such a way that it can accommodate both full – time employees and part – time / contract staff; those who just want to take some time off to generate additional incomes.

We make provision to engage full time employees (t ruck drivers, professional material handlers / yard spotters and back office staff ) and some of the available driving roles will be handled by qualified contract drivers when the business fully kick off as a standard trucking company.

But for now, all the available roles will be played / occupied by the owner Robson Graham, except for some roles that can be contracted out as our sources of income increases. For now, we will contract the maintenance of our truck to service provider, we don’t intend to maintain a very any overhead due to the nature of the business.

But as soon as the business grow and stabilize, we will assemble our own in – house maintenance team. Below is the business structure and the roles that will be available at Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc.;

• Chief Operating Officer (Owner)
• Admin and HR Manager (Owner)
• Transport and Logistics Manager (Owner)
• Marketing and Sales Executive (Owner)
• Accountant (Owner)
• Truck Driver (Owner)
• Material Handlers / Yard Spotters / Forklifts Operators(Contract)
• Customer Services Executive / Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Operating Officer (Owner):

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization

Transport and Logistics Manager

• coordinates drivers, vehicles, loads and journeys
• operating IT systems
• negotiates and agreeing contracts
• develops and confirming schedules
• plans for and negotiating technical difficulties
• prepares paperwork for regulatory bodies
• liaises and managing staff
• implements health and safety standards
• Plans routes and load scheduling for multi-drop deliveries.
• Books in deliveries and liaising with customers.
• Allocates and records resources and movements on the transport planning system.
• Ensures all partners in the supply chain are working effectively and efficiently to ensure smooth operations.
• Communicating effectively with clients and responding to their requirements.
• Directs all transportation activities.
• Develops transportation relationships.
• Monitors transport costs.
• Negotiates and bargains transportation prices.
• Deals with the effects of congestion.
• Confronts climate change issues by implementing transport strategies and monitoring an organization’s carbon footprint.

Admin and HR Manager

• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Designs job descriptions with KPI to drive performance management for clients
• Regularly hold meetings with key stakeholders to review the effectiveness of HR Policies, Procedures and Processes
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carrying out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.

Marketing and Sales Executives (Business Developers)

• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new clients, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of projects.
• Writes winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
• Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Documents all customer contact and information
• Represents Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. in strategic meetings
• Helps to increase sales and growth for Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc.
• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managers with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the company
• Serves as internal auditor for the company

Commercial Truck Driver

• Assists in loading and unloading goods / materials
• Maintains a logbook of their driving activities to ensure compliance with federal regulations governing the rest and work periods for operators.
• Keeps a record of vehicle inspections and make sure the truck is equipped with safety equipment, such as hazardous material placards.
• Assists the transport and logistics manager in planning their route according to a pick – up and delivery schedule.
• Inspect vehicles for mechanical items and safety issues and perform preventative maintenance
• Complies with truck driving rules and regulations (size, weight, route designations, parking, break periods etc.) as well as with company policies and procedures
• Collects and verifies delivery instructions
• Reports defects, accidents or violations

Material Handlers / Yard Spotters / Forklift Operators

• Responsible for handling core services such as operating forklifts, loading and unloading materials from trucks and vans, packing and packing goods et al
• Handles general services that involves the transportation of goods from one location to another location
• Maintains a clean working area by sweeping, vacuuming, dusting, cleaning of glass doors and windows, etc. if required.
• Handles any other duty as assigned by the transport and logistics manager.

Customer Service Officer

• Welcomes clients and visitors by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products and, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries

6. SWOT Analysis

Going by our vision, our mission and the kind of business we want to set – up, we don’t have any other option than to follow due process. Following due process involves hiring business consultant to help us conduct SWOT analysis for our business.

Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. hired the services of a seasoned business consultant with bias in start – ups in the U.S. to help us conduct a thorough SWOT analysis and to guide us in formulating other business strategies that will help us grow our business and favorable compete in Trucking industry.

As a company, we look forward to maximizing our strength and opportunities and also to work around our weaknesses and threats. Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc.;

Our area of strengths as a truck owner operator business are reliability, honesty, adequate experience, cost advantages, customer loyalty and strong reputation amongst domestic and industry players and our transportation network serves some of the largest population centers in the U.S. Basically, our business is centrally located in a densely populated industrial and residential estate in South Dakota; our location is in fact one of our major strength.

Our weakness could be lack of finance, high debt burden, cost structure, lack of scale compared to our peers who have already gained ground in the industry. As a new truck owner operator business, which is owned by an individual (family) with just one truck, we may not have the financial muscle to sustain the kind of publicity we want to give our business. We are also aware that it will take time for us to build trust with our clients.

• Opportunities:

The opportunities that are available to us as a truck owner operator business in the United States are online market, new services, new technology, and of course the opening of new markets. We are centrally located in one of the busiest industrial area in South Dakota and we are open to all the available opportunities that the city has to offer.

Our business concept also positioned us to be the preferred choice in South Dakota. The truth is that there are no standard and well – equipped truck owner operator companies within the area where ours is going to be located; the closest truck owner operator company to our proposed location is about 15 miles away. In a nutshell, we do not have any direct competition within our target market area.

Some of the threats that we are likely going to face are mature markets, bad economy (economy downturn), stiff competition, volatile costs, and rising fuel prices.

Other threats that are likely going to confront Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. are unfavorable government policies, seasonal fluctuations, demographic / social factors, downturn in the economy which is likely going to affect consumers spending and of course emergence of new competitors within the same location where ours is located.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

The market trends as it involves the trucking industry especially in the United States and Canada, is indeed dynamic and at the same time challenging.

But one thing is certain, once a truck owner operator can gain credibility, it will be much easier for the company to secure permanent deals / contracts with big time merchants, haulage companies and warehouse operators who are involved in moving goods and materials from one location to another on a regular basis

The demand for the services of truck owner operator companies is highly correlated with consumer spending. With the advancement of technology and the sole need for every individual to live in a comfortable house, the trucking industry keeps souring high, and as home sellers, buyers and renters prepare for season, hiring professional movers is likely to be on their moving checklists.

It is anticipated that the five below trends will be prevalent in the trucking industry. No doubt some of the major factors that count positively in this line of business are competence, trust, honesty, robust network, good relationship management and of course timely and safe pick – ups and deliveries.

8. Our Target Market

Our target market is basically every one (organizations and individual as well who have cause to move goods and materials from one location to another. In other words, our target market is the whole of the United States of America and below is a list of the people and organizations that we have plans to do business with;

• Merchants and Warehouse Operators
• Retailers who would want to move their goods from one locations to another
• Manufacturers ( Chemical manufacturers, and Textiles manufactures et al )
• Households who would want to move from one apartment to another
• Corporate organizations who would want to move from one office to another
• Government agencies who have cause to mover goods and materials from one location to another location
• Non – Profits and Charity organizations that have cause to move goods and materials from one location to another.

Our competitive advantage

Surviving in the business world as a truck owner operator requires more than your expertise, knowing how to deliver on time but also how to network with key people that matters; decision makers that can decide who will get a haulage contract.

Our major competitive advantage is the vast industry experience and solid reputation of the owner of the business Robson Graham. Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. no doubt is a new truck owner operating company, which is why we took our time to do a thorough homework before launching the business.

We were able to highlight some factors that will give us competitive advantage in the marketplace; some of the factors reliability, honesty, adequate experience, cost advantages, customer loyalty and strong reputation amongst domestic and industry players and our transportation network serves some of the largest population centers in the U.S.

Basically, our business is centrally located in a densely populated industrial and residential estate in South Dakota; our location is in fact one of our major strength.

Another competitive advantage that we are bringing to the industry is the fact that we have designed our business in such a way that we can comfortably work with both individuals who may want to make use of small trucks and also big conglomerates who are involved in massive movement of goods and materials from one locations to another on a regular basis.

Lastly, all our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups truck owner operator companies in the United States) in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. will ensure that we leverage on our strength and the opportunities available to us in the U.S. market to generate enough income that will help us drive the business to stability (from a one-man business to a standard trucking company with loads of fulltime employees).

We will go all the way to explore every available source of income in the trucking industry. Below are the sources we intend exploring to generate income for Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc.;

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain, there would always be corporate organization, government agencies, households and individual who would need the services of truck owner operator companies from time to time.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in the U.S. and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first month or operations and grow the business and clientele beyond South Dakota to other states in the U.S. and Canada

We have been able to critically examine the trucking industry and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we were able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projections are based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to similar startups in the United States of America.

Below are the sales projections for Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc., it is based on the location of our business and our competitive advantage;

• First Fiscal Year-: $120,000
• Second Fiscal Year-: $250,000
• Third Fiscal Year-: $600,000

N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same truck owner operator services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

The marketing strategy for Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. is going to be driven basically by professionalism, excellent customer service, honesty and quality service delivery. We will ensure that we build a loyal customer base. We want to drive sales via the output of our jobs and via referral from our satisfied customers. We are quite aware of how satisfied customers drive business growth especially businesses like moving and storage services.

Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. is a business that is strategically located and we are going to maximize the opportunities that is available which is why we spend more to locate the business in a location that will be visible and enable us to access our target market.

In future when we expand the business from truck owner operator business to standard trucking company, our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall goal of Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc.

Our goal is to grow Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. from a one-man business (truck owner operator business) to become the trucking company in South Dakota which is why we have mapped out strategy that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with in the Trucking industry.

Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. is set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients;

• Introduce our truck owner operator business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to corporate organizations who are into manufacturing, merchants and warehouse operators, households and key stake holders in South Dakota
• Print out fliers and business cards and strategically drop them in offices, libraries, public facilities and train stations et al.
• Use friends and family to spread word about our business
• Post information about our company and the services we offer on bulletin boards in places like schools, libraries, and local coffee shops et al
• Placing a small or classified advertisement in the newspaper, or local publication about our company and the services we offer
• Leverage on referral networks such as agencies that will attract clients who would need our customized services
• Advertise our business in relevant magazines, newspapers, TV stations, and radio station.
• Attend relevant expos, seminars, and business fairs et al to market our services
• Engage in direct marketing approach
• Encourage the use of Word of mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied students
• Join local chambers of commerce and industry to network and to market our services.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Any business that wants to grow beyond the corner of the street they are operating must be ready and willing to utilize every available means (conventional and non – conventional means) to advertise and promote the business. We intend growing our business beyond South Dakota which is why we have perfected plans to build our brand via every available means.

We have been able to work with our brand and publicity consultants to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market.

We are set to become the number one choice for both corporate clients and households in the whole of South Dakota and beyond which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our truck owner operator business.

Below are the platforms Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. intend leveraging on to promote and advertise our trucking business;

• Place adverts on both print (newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community based events / programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote our services
• Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations all around South Dakota
• Engage in road show from time to time in targeted neighborhoods
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
• Contact corporate organizations and households and corporate organizations by calling them up and informing them of Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. and the services we offer
• List our company in local directories / yellow pages
• Advertise our company in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site.
• Ensure that all our staff members wear our branded shirts and all our trucks and vans are well branded with our company logo et al.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. has a lease arrangement with car / truck dealership shop and the company’s pricing is going to be based on miles per thousands of tons of goods and materials transported. We have perfected our plans to charge competitive rates since we have minimal overhead compared to our competition in the industry.

We will ensure that we leverage on price to win over customers; our prices will be affordable and negotiable. The fact that our business door is open to both individuals and corporate organizations means that we will have different price range for different category of clients.

We are aware that there are some one – off jobs or government contracts which are always lucrative, we will ensure that we abide by the pricing model that is expected from contractors or organizations that bid for such contracts. As the business grows, we will continue to review our pricing system to accommodate a wide range of clientele.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulation of the United States of America.

Here are the payment options that Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. will make available to her clients;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via credit cards / Point of Sale Machines (POS Machines)
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via mobile money transfer
• Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our client make payment for our services without any stress on their part. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials to clients who may want to deposit cash or make online transfer for our services.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting a place, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business. The tools and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked.

As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a truck owner operator business; it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money. However, this is what it would cost us to start Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. in the United of America;

• The total fee for incorporating the business in the United States of America – $750.
• The budget for liability insurance, permits and license – $5,500
• The amount required to finance the purchase of the first 40 Ton Truck including maintenance and servicing for the for a year – $40,000
• The cost for equipping a small office (computers, printers, fax machines, furniture, telephones, filing cabins, safety gadgets and electronics et al): $5,000
• The cost for the purchase of accounting software, CRM software and Payroll Software – $3,000
• Other start-up expenses including stationery – $1000
• Phone and Utilities (gas, sewer, water and electric) deposits – ( $3,500 ).
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (fueling, payments of bills et al) – $10,000
• The cost of Launching our official Website: $600
• Additional Expenditure (Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al): $2,500

Going by the report from our market research and feasibility studies, we will need about $70,000 to set up a truck owner operator business in South Dakota.

Generating Funds / Startup Capital for Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc.

Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. is set to start as a private business that will be solely owned and managed by Robson Graham and his immediate family members. They will be the sole financial of the company but may likely welcome other business partners when need for expansion arises.

These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the start – up capital from friends and other extended family members
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B: We have been able to generate about $20,000 ( Personal savings $15,000 and soft loan from family members 5,000 ) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $50,000 from our bank. All the papers and document has been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. is a business that was established with the aim of covering the whole of South Dakota and other cities in the United States of America.

We have invested a whole lot of money in the business and we would not want to see our investment go down the drain which is why we hired a core business structuring professional to help us put strategies and structure in place that will help us grow the business from a one man business to a standard trucking company.

One of our major goals of starting Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc. is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to offer our trucking services a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

At Robson Graham® Truck Service Inc., we will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of All form of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Acquiring of trucks, vans and forklifts: In progress
• Renting of Office Facility (Yard) in South Dakota: In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Start – up Capital Generation: Completed
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees and drivers: In Progress
• Purchase of the needed furniture, office equipment, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business (Business PR): In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with key players in the industry (networking and membership of relevant organizations and chambers of commerce): Completed
• Purchase of a 40 ton truck: Completed

Related Posts:

• Trucking Financial Projection – Profit & Loss Statement
• Buying New Trucks Vs Used Trucks for your Trucking Company
• 10 Legal Requirements for Starting a Haulage Business
• 15 Truck Financing Options for New Businesses With Bad Credit
• How to Write a Trucking Business Proposal That Gets Noticed

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Starting out with an owner-operator trucking business

Jason Forrest

Here’s a starter guide for people thinking of getting their start in the trucking industry, specifically for potential independent owner-operators (O/Os).

Figure out how you’re gonna get paid

Might be obvious, but  start with the money.  Figure out what your sources of income are going to be.

There are two ways you can get paid as an O/O:

• Operate under your own authority, booking your own loads either through brokers or direct relationships with shippers.
• Leasing onto a carrier and choosing the loads you want to haul.

Let’s look at these two incomes a little more closely.

Booking your own loads

If you are getting your own loads, you’ll be working through a broker, through load boards, or by developing direct relationships with customers.

Gather information about how much different kinds of loads pay and what the requirements are for hauling them. Go to these sites and look around:

• Truckstop.com
• 123loadboard
• CH Robinson

Check out the rates, and try to call some of the brokers to see what they are looking for in a company and driver. This will help you figure out which loads you will be able to haul and inform your decision on what kind of truck and equipment you need to buy.

You will also need to look into becoming a carrier to book your own loads.

If you are new to trucking, starting out by getting your authority and booking your own loads is going to be hard. You have more work to do, and you have a lot more regulations, fees, and start-up costs than with leasing to a carrier.

Here are some more resources:

• A thread on TheTruckersReport.com about booking loads
• A thread on TheTruckersReport.com comparing rates between having own authority and leasing
• A thread on TheTruckersReport.com about having your own authority versus working for carriers

Leasing to a carrier

If you are considering leasing to a carrier, then make some calls and talk to people at different potential carriers. Talk to recruiters and talk to some drivers. The recruiters are going to paint a rosy picture. The drivers will be more realistic, but might be a little negative. The truth is somewhere in between.

Find out about what kind of rates to expect to be paid, how many miles you will run, and what you will haul. This will go a long way to picking the right truck. If you need to run a lot of miles, fuel mileage is a very high priority. If your fuel costs are too high, they can eat a big chunk of your profits.

Find out how long they expect you to keep your truck out. If they expect you to be on the road for long periods of time, is that going to suit your needs. (And if you are thinking of hiring drivers, you want to make sure they are a good fit for the jobs, too.)

Find out what requirements they have for drivers. These will include such things as: types of insurance, certificates or licenses for transporting certain kinds of materials, or limits on driving hours. You don’t want to go too far in the business-starting process and find out that they won’t let you start working.

Start estimating your business costs

When you know where the money will be coming from and a ballpark of what to expect per mile and per month, you can start planning how much your business will cost to operate.

Here’s an Income Estimation Calculator that helps you figure out the types of expenses to expect and how much they’ll affect profits: https://www.rigbooks.com/income-estimation-tool. Using the tool, you can see how things like fuel mileage, payment costs, and price of fuel will affect your cost structure.

If you haven’t picked a truck to buy yet, you will want to play around with the calculator a bit and see what ranges you can get away with to keep the costs significantly under your expected profits.

I highly recommend you leave yourself as much room as possible between your expected costs and the expected income. You should be estimating on the cautious side for your expected jobs. Sometimes things don’t work out, so you want to be conservative in your estimates.

If you’re thinking of hiring other drives, do research to see what they’ll cost you.

• FAQ about first-year truck driver salary
• TruckDriverSalary.net
• Truck driver salaries on Indeed.com
• Article on the importance of pay

Start looking for potential trucks

With a better idea of the costs and profits involved, you can start looking at trucks.

Here’s  an article on truck-buying tips for owner-operators.

Here’s  an article on whether to buy a used or a new truck.

Once you’re looking at trucks, make a spreadsheet. Include columns for:

• Where you saw the truck
• Expected fuel mileage
• Expected maintenance costs

The payment ranges you looked at in the previous step should give you an idea of price ranges you can afford.

You can look up information on the model of trucks you are interested in to fill in the expected fuel mileage and expected maintenance costs.

Take your list and plug each one back into the income estimation calculator. This will give you an idea for how the different numbers for each truck will impact your expected income.

Fine-tuning your cost structure

Edit your list of trucks down to 5-10 trucks. Start making calls and see if they are still available, and take more detailed notes about them. Whittle the list down to 3-5 of the best. This will save you money when you go on  Rigdig.com and check on the truck’s history.

Now you can use these and call some insurance companies to get a better idea of the exact costs of the insurance. Call several, as rates can vary by a large amount.

Call some banks and see what you should expect for payments on for a truck. Call several to get the best deal. Take those bids and plug them back into the calculator to get a more accurate idea of your costs.

Come up with some ideas for what you expect preventive maintenance to cost. You can find information about the make, model and year of the trucks you are interested and see what others have experienced with them. If you don’t have much experience with this, you will basically have to guess. (It’s better to err on the side of too high costs rather than too little.) Plug those numbers back into the calculator.

Here are some more helpful threads with real-world advice on truck-buying. I recommend you read a good amount of these kinds of threads and posts, because they’re filled with real-world experience and tips you might not otherwise think bout.

• Thread about buying an older truck
• Truck-buying questions
• Thread from someone thinking about buying a truck
• Another truck-buying thread
• And yet another truck-buying thread

If you’d done all these steps, you’ve got about as good of a plan as you can hope to have without more experience. The rest is going to be making adjustments and having enough extra money saved up to pay for unforeseen expenses.

I’ll leave you with some more good trucking threads that have a lot of great general business-starting advice:

• A great thread detailing an owner-operator starting out in the business
• A driver details his journey from company driver to independent
• An educational look at some of the costs of running your own business, and some of the main ways companies fail
• You can search on  TheTruckersReport  to look up terms and phrases you want to learn more about.
• To give the other side of the coin, a  very negative opinion about how hard it is to make it as an owner-operator
• A collection of trucking business resources on Rigbooks.com

Try talking to experienced O/Os. Not only has every O/O gone through this themselves, but they have heard a million stories from others, given advice to new drivers, and have been around the block enough times to know how things should work out.

Hopefully this article has been helpful to you. In the other articles in the  Rigbooks Resource Center , we have all sorts of trucking business strategy articles and tips on succeeding.

If you have any comments or questions about this article, or want to learn more about how our software, Rigbooks, can help you with your owner-operator business,  send us a message on our Contact Page.

You can also sign up for a free 30-day trial of Rigbooks here.

About Rigbooks

My name is Jason Forrest, and I’m the creator of  Rigbooks . Rigbooks is a cloud-based software that makes it easier for small and medium-sized trucking companies run their business while keeping organized. We’ve been around since 2010.

A little about me: I grew up in a trucking family and from an early age I learned about the day-to-day problems that truck owner/operators have to deal with. I was into computers and programming as a kid so over the years I helped write small computer programs that helped my parents run their company better. Eventually that led to the idea of putting all those tools together in one package. And Rigbooks was born.

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How to Start an Owner-Operator Trucking Business

Back to All Business Ideas

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on February 25, 2022 Updated on May 6, 2024

Investment range

$14,850 - $28,600

Revenue potential

$100,000 – $220,000 p.a.

Time to build

Profit potential

$60,000 - $132,000p.a.

Industry trend

Do you love traveling the open road, watching the landscape change as you cross state lines? If so, an owner-operator trucking business may be just the ticket. Trucking is a $217 billion industry, so why not haul away a piece of that pie? As an owner-operator, you can make a lot more money than you would working for a company, and you can pick and choose the trips you want to take. 

You’ll need to load up on some business intel, though, to be successful. Luckily, this step-by-step guide details all the info you need to get on the road to business ownership.

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting an owner-operator trucking business has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

• Travel – See the country, have new experiences
• Control – Be the master of your own time and income
• High Demand – Trucking is an in-demand service
• Investment Required – A truck and licensing require time and money
• Time Away from Family – Homesickness may occur!

Owner-operator trucking industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The US freight trucking industry is worth an impressive $217.3 billion in 2022 and has increased nearly 3% annually the past five years despite a pandemic dip.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/general-freight-trucking-truckload-united-states/ ))
• Growth forecast – The global freight trucking industry is expected to grow 36% by 2025.(( https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/5323180/local-general-freight-trucking-global-market ))
• Number of businesses – In 2022, 684,846 freight trucking businesses were operating in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/general-freight-trucking-truckload-united-states/ ))  
• Number of people employed – In 2022, the freight trucking industry employed 1,260,636 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/general-freight-trucking-truckload-industry/ )) 

Trends and challenges

Trends in the owner-operator trucking industry include:

• More and more loads are being booked on an app or online, which provides a great way for owner-operators to secure business.
• The increased number of distribution centers is making the average haul shorter.

Challenges in the owner-operator trucking industry include:

• Rising fuel prices are cutting into the profit margins of owner-operator truck drivers.
• Freight rates are constantly fluctuating, impacting the revenue of owner-operators.

Demand hotspots

• Most popular states – The most popular states for truck drivers are Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio.(( https://www.zippia.com/truck-driver-jobs/best-states/ ))
• Least popular states – The least popular states for truck drivers are Hawaii, Alaska, and Texas. 

What kind of people work in Trucking?

• Gender – 16.7% of truck drivers are female, while 80% are male.(( https://www.zippia.com/professional-truck-driver-jobs/demographics/ ))
• Average level of education – The average truck driver is high school educated.
• Average age – The average truck driver in the US is 48.2 years old.

How much does it cost to start an owner-operator trucking business?

Startup costs for an owner-operator trucking business range from $15,000 to $30,000. The main costs are for a down payment on a truck and truck insurance.

If you need to go to truck driving school, it costs an average of $6,000 and takes between 6 to 8 weeks.

How much can you earn from an owner-operator trucking business?

You should be able to earn about $2 per mile. After the costs of fuel, maintenance, and insurance, your profit margin should be about 60%.

In your first year or two, you could drive 50,000 miles per year, bringing in $100,000 in annual revenue. This would mean $60,000 in profit, assuming that 60% margin. As you grow your business, you could drive 110,000 miles per year. With annual revenue of $220,000, you’d make a tidy profit of $132,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for an owner-operator trucking business. Your biggest challenges will be:

• The relatively high startup costs
• Meeting licensing requirements

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting an owner-operator trucking business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research owner-operator trucking businesses in your area to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a trucking business that delivers to Canada.

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as long-haul trucking.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your products or services

You just need to determine how long you want your hauls to be, and if you want to specialize in certain types of loads. Your best bet is to keep your services open to any type of load and any distance.

How much should you charge for owner-operator trucking services?

You should be able to earn about $2 per mile. Your ongoing costs will be for fuel, truck maintenance, and truck insurance. You should aim for a profit margin of about 60%.

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will be businesses that need trucking services. You can find business owners on LinkedIn. You can also use online services and apps to find work. An example is truckstop.com . 

Where? Choose your business premises

You can run your business from home, but if you ever want to have your own trucking company with a fleet of trucks and drivers, you’ll need an office. Find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Business Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “trucking” or “truck driver”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Road Masters” over “Oversize Freight Solutions” or “Hazmat Solutions”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

Powered by GoDaddy.com

Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: Provide a brief overview of your business plan, summarizing your goals and approach to the business.
• Business Overview: Introduce your owner-operator trucking business, outlining the types of freight you’ll transport and the areas you plan to serve.
• Product and Services: Detail the transportation services you’ll offer, including the types of cargo, equipment, and any specialized services like refrigerated transport or hazmat hauling.
• Market Analysis: Analyze the trucking industry, identifying demand for transportation services, key routes, and potential customers, and highlight any market trends.
• Competitive Analysis: Identify competitors in the trucking industry, evaluate their services, pricing, and customer base, and explain how your business will differentiate itself.
• Sales and Marketing: Describe your strategies for acquiring clients, such as online load boards, networking with shippers, and building relationships with brokers.
• Management Team: Highlight your qualifications and experience in the trucking industry, emphasizing your knowledge of regulations, safety protocols, and logistics.
• Operations Plan: Explain how your trucking business will operate, covering maintenance schedules, route planning, compliance with regulations, and safety measures.
• Financial Plan: Provide financial projections, including revenue estimates, cost breakdowns, profit margins, and startup expenses, demonstrating the business’s financial viability.
• Appendix: Include necessary documents such as your trucking license, insurance certificates, vehicle inspection records, and contracts with shippers or brokers to build credibility with clients and regulatory agencies.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you’re planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to owner-operator trucking businesses. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your owner-operator trucking business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have. 

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you’re completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans : This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans : The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants : A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family : Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding : Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal : Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding an owner-operator trucking business. 

Step 8: Apply for Licenses/Permits

Starting an owner-operator trucking business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

First, you’ll need to obtain a commercial driver’s license from your state DMV. You’ll also need a Department of Transportation number and a Motor Carrier Authority number, both of which you can get by registering with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) . Finally, you’ll need to complete a unified carrier’s registration , and if you plan to drive to other states or Canada, an International Registration Plan tag and an International Fuel Tax Agreement decal.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your owner-operator trucking business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability : The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property : Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance : Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation : Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property : Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto : Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability : Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP) : This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as ShipWell , TruckingOffice , or Truck Logic , to help you manage your scheduling, billing, bookkeeping, and more.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google.

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Specialized Services Offerings: Tailor your services to cater to specific industries or niches, such as refrigerated transport for perishables or hazardous materials transportation, to stand out in the market and attract businesses with unique needs.
• Local Partnerships: Forge partnerships with local businesses, warehouses, and manufacturers to establish a reliable local clientele, leveraging the advantage of being an owner-operator with a strong understanding of the regional logistics landscape.
• Social Media Advertising: Utilize targeted social media advertising on platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook to reach decision-makers in logistics and supply chain management, showcasing your reliability, efficiency, and any special offerings you provide.
• Customer Referral Programs: Implement referral programs that reward current clients for referring new businesses to your services, fostering a word-of-mouth marketing approach that can be particularly effective in the trucking industry.
• Fleet Branding: Ensure your truck is well-branded with a professional logo and contact information, turning your vehicle into a moving billboard that advertises your services wherever it goes, increasing brand visibility and recognition.
• Online Reviews Management: Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews on popular review platforms like Google Business and Yelp, building a positive online reputation that can influence potential clients when they research your services.
• Trade Shows and Industry Events: Attend relevant trade shows and industry events to network with potential clients, suppliers, and other stakeholders, establishing a presence in the industry and staying updated on the latest trends and opportunities.
• Loyalty Programs: Develop loyalty programs for repeat customers, offering discounts, priority service, or other perks to incentivize clients to continue choosing your services for their transportation needs.
• Optimized Routing and Efficiency: Highlight your commitment to efficiency and cost-effectiveness by optimizing your routing and delivery processes, emphasizing how your streamlined operations can save clients time and money.
• Community Involvement: Engage with the local community by sponsoring events, participating in charity drives, or supporting local causes, creating a positive image for your business and enhancing your connection with the community.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your owner-operator trucking business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your owner-operator trucking business could be:

• We haul your loads anywhere in the country
• Ontime load delivery, guaranteed!
• Transport to anywhere in the US and Canada

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running an owner-operator trucking business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in trucking for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in trucking. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

Working as a solopreneur owner-operator, you won’t need any employees. But if you decide to grow into a trucking company, you’ll need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a trucking business include:

• Truck Drivers – drive loads
• Dispatcher – dispatch drivers
• General Manager – staff management, accounting
• Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Start Making Money!

Ready to get on the road? Starting an owner-operator trucking business takes an investment to get started, but you can make good money in a $200 billion industry. If you love traveling, that’s an added bonus. You’ll get to see places you never knew existed while being an integral part of the all-important supply chain. 

Now that you’ve done your business homework, it’s time to take the next steps and get on the highway to entrepreneurship!

• Owner-Operator Trucking Business FAQs

Most established owner-operator truck drivers make a six-figure income. It may take you a while to build up a customer base to get to that level, but you can make good money right from the start.

On average, you should be able to charge about $2 per mile. Freight rates tend to fluctuate, however, so your rate may be lower or higher at any given time.

If you can get consistent work it can be very profitable. Some successful owner operators make well into the six figures.

Establish a regular maintenance schedule, including oil changes, tire inspections, and brake checks, to prevent breakdowns and ensure the longevity of your equipment. Develop relationships with reputable mechanics or maintenance facilities to handle repairs promptly and efficiently. 

The hardest part of trucking can vary from person to person, but some common challenges include long hours and time away from home, dealing with traffic and road conditions, managing tight schedules, navigating regulatory compliance, and handling the physical demands of the job.

Yes, as an owner-operator, you can contract with multiple companies to provide transportation services. This arrangement allows you to diversify your client base, reduce dependency on a single source of income, and potentially increase your earning potential. 

Finding clients or companies in need of transportation services can be accomplished through various strategies:

• Online platforms and load boards
• Cold calling and direct marketing

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Business Name
• Create a Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Licenses/Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Start Making Money!

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Owner Operator Business Plan 7: Plan Building

by TruckingOffice | Business Plan , Trucking Authority , Trucking Software | 0 comments

Building an Owner-Operator Trucking Business Plan

Your business plan will have

• an executive summary
• a company overview
• a marketing plan
• a set of goals or milestones
• a list of the current staff
• a financial plan.

TruckingOffice can help you as we break down each step of writing your owner-operator trucking business plan for your success.

Plan the Build and Build the Plan

An owner-operator business plan should not be a long document.  While all those marketing plans and financial statements may take time and effort to put together, they shouldn’t be long and drawn out.

Why?  Because you want to come back to this document again.  If it’s 40 pages long, will you want to read it again?  Not really.  While it’s important to be thorough for an investor or a loan officer, the primary purpose of a business plan is to help you, the business owner.

Plan the Build

As you have all of your information organized, you can make specific plans, not just wishes.  Knowing what you want to accomplish will help your focus and keep you away from distractions.  Not that the unexpected offer or opportunity should be ignored, but when it’s a difficult decision, remembering the plan can help you choose.

Talk to your family about your plans.  Talk to other stakeholders – those who have an interest in your business.  They can help you with ideas and insights into how you work.  Be aware of trends and current information about the trucking industry.  The ELD mandate is a good example of a significant change in trucking – are there others comings?

Don’t be afraid to plan to build your company.  Right now, maybe you’re happy with what you have and where you are.  But as you mature in the industry, you may find that new challenges  – like building a fleet – start to interest you.  This plan that you build now is changeable as you grow.  It’s meant to be changed.

Build the Plan

By keeping your business plan short and to the point, you’re going to find yourself referring to it more often, which is smart as you start to follow it.

How often should you review your plan?  If you’ve set milestones for time – then at those intervals.  You may be surprised that you’ve done better than you thought.  The process of business planning often motivates us to step up and do just a little bit more.  That may be all you needed to start reaching your milestones.

If your milestones and goals are more tasks than events, then reviewing your them on a regular basis will help you keep things in mind.  You could pick a random day every month and call it the Plan Day.  Give yourself an extra cup of coffee and leaf through your document.  It’s your paper – so write on it.   Make notations, celebrate the achievements you’ve accomplished.  Maybe you’ll need to reschedule your goals and milestones – that’s okay.  Building your plan doesn’t mean the plan won’t change.

Accountability

Should you set up some kind of accountability partner?  For many people, this is an effective way to keep your focus because you know you’re going to be asked about what you’ve done.  There are a couple of ways to do this.

Personal Accountability :  Is there someone – a mentor or friend – who could help you by talking with you on a regular basis about your business plan activities?  It’s like your mom making sure you did your homework.  You may not have liked it but it worked.

Mastermind Groups:   Finding a group of like-minded owner-operators and creating a mastermind group or joining an existing group is a way to build some accountability into your life.  As long as you are willing to participate seriously – state your goals and report honestly at the next meeting – and recognizing that the other members’ needs are equally as important as your own – a mastermind may be a good place.

Business Coaching:  There’s nothing like paying someone to help you do something.  Using a business coach is an investment in yourself and your company.  It’s also a great motivation to do the work and not throw your money away.

Negative Reinforcement

(We don’t necessarily approve of all of this, but there is some value in negative motivation.)

What happens if you don’t do the work?

Nothing happens, really.  You may have wasted some time and effort into building a business plan, but that’s your decision.  If you need consequences, consider this option.  There are websites where you enter your goals – and your credit card number.  You set the dollar figure and the deadline.  If you don’t report back that you’ve accomplished your goal, then a donation to a company you hate will be charged to your credit card!  How’s that for motivation!

You can purchase goal-setting software and products online.  Some of them have chat features for support.  Like business coaching, you don’t want to waste your money when you’re paying by the month.

Software to get you there

Dispatching is a key part of trucking.  You have to get to the shipper.  You have to know where to take the load.  Dispatching software has simplified this process considerably with GPS and programs like PC*Miler.

Using a good software program to manage your trucking business is critical to success in the 21st-century transportation industry.  The ELD mandate has put computers into our cabs, whether we wanted them or not.  We can’t ignore the improvements that software has made.  Brokers, dispatchers, bookkeepers, and drivers have all benefited from using good software.  Trucking management software makes a difference.

We know people try to make other software packages work.  An elaborate setup with Google Docs and Sheets.  Using QuickBooks.  Neither of these applications works for trucking without a lot of adaption.  That’s the beauty of a trucking management software solution like TruckingOffice.  It was designed for trucking.

Designed for Truckers

Quarterly, we file IFTA.  That’s a lot of work without a software program designed to track miles by state.  We file IRP and HVUT.

We have to track and manage a lot of data in the transportation industry that most others never think about.  You can try to work with another software program, but you’ll spend a lot of time on it.  That’s time off the road, not earning anything.  Just like investing in our company with a business coach or new equipment, getting a reliable trucking management program is the way to build the best trucking business you can.

That’s TruckingOffice Trucking Management Software .  As you build your plan, build TruckingOffice in as well to discover the power to build you plan.

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How To Get Your Own Trucking Authority

Get Your Own Trucking Authority

• Business Plan
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• Organization
• Owner Operator
• Trucking Authority
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• Trucking Management Software
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