Trucking: Dump Truck, georgia department of transportation, excavating companies

Question
Hello Bob,
I am a women living in Atlanta Ga, and I wnat to start my own dump truck company. My husband has been drivng dump truck about 2 years and I want to know how do we go about starting our own company.

Answer
Hi Geraldine.

The first thing I would do is incorporate.  Keep you business assets and liability separate from your personal finances as much as possible.  Then find a good accountant that is familiar with trucking.  They are often worth their weight in gold when it comes to saving you money.

I assume you have a truck, or will, very soon.  You'll need to get your DOT number, fuel tax sticker, etc.  Contact the Georgia Department of Transportation and they can help you get legal.

Shop around for insurance.  You'll want insurance for your truck and company.  There are many companies in the Atlanta area that can help you out with that.  Many won't know a thing about trucking, so keep going through the phone book until you find one that does.  It will save you headaches in the long run.

The big thing is finding your loads.  I tell every person who is starting a new company to go out and sell!  Most people think trucking, on any level, is just get in the truck and drive.  Those are the future company drivers of the world.  I have to sell almost every day!  Drop off business cards at local construction, paving and excavating companies.  When you don't hear from them, stop by again.  It doesn't come easy and many don't want to listen.  Nobody is going to say "Geraldine bought a truck, let give her all our loads!"  So, hit up everyone in your area that may need your services.  Over time, you will get more and more loads.  Service it good and at a fair price and they will be back!  I have gotten great loads from being a thorn in someone's side.  Once I have them I make sure that I'm always on time for pick-up and delivery.  It will keep that customer coming back to you.  I can't stress it enough, go out and drop your business card off everywhere!

Your husband has hauled load for two years, so he's probably got a good heads-up on where to go.  You could go through a broker, or other company, but why give them a cut?  Just make sure you don't "over promise" your services.

Start out humble, try and get a used truck with an engine warranty.  Keep expenses low.  With a good sales effort and great service, you'll be super busy before you know it!

Good luck!

Bob Stephens