The pandemic has not been particularly kind to any small business and enterprise. However, some industries have been able to thrive over the past months, and they seem to have a bright future ahead. Among these, because of the surge in online orders, eCommerce, and deliveries, the transport and logistics sector stands out.
Due to the sudden change in trends, this sector is likely to thrive throughout the next few years. And, if you have thought of getting a logistics business off the ground, you might have found a suitable environment – with the right tips!
Connect with the Community
One of the greatest challenges of getting a logistics business off the ground is putting together a fleet – and looking after it. So, you are likely to start your business with just a few trucks, vans, or cars. Therefore, it is crucial to create the right relationships with the community around you.
This is going to be the audience that allows you to get off the ground and count on an initial customer base. Because of your business’s nature, you might need to start by connecting with other local businesses in the area that are offering delivery options or brands that are looking to offer this service.
Use Digital Marketing
Transport and logistics companies usually represent a bridge between a business and the consumer. While they are not so visible to the customers, they play a vital role. So, You might consider using digital marketing, SEO, and social media as part of your B2B marketing strategy. This technique allows you to create valuable relationships with the ones around you and drive engagement.
When defining your unique selling points and values, you might decide to use your business’s nature as an advantage. Depending on your primary and secondary market, you might consider advertising your company as a small business dedicated to local companies and artisans’ needs.
Go Greener.
An increasing number of families, individuals, and businesses are always becoming more sensible about issues such as environmentalism. If you wish to keep up and overcome the competition, it is crucial to understand this trend’s implications. You might decide to use more efficient trucks, electric vehicles, or even just using vans that run on alternative fuel. Your company might be the one to sign up for charity initiatives or get involved in environmental projects.
Independently from the way you wish to express that your brand cares for the environment and community, this effort is something your company can’t do without – especially in its growth phase!
Increase Productivity
Increased productivity means that the same tasks can be completed in less time, with fewer resources, and with less wastage. These are all important qualities for a company because it means that you can optimize your costs and increase your profits. Nonetheless, it is crucial to do all this while safeguarding the service’s quality and looking after your drivers’ wellbeing.
To help you in this project, you might leverage industry-specific programs such as fleet fueling cards without fees. These can help your drivers optimize costs and efficiency while feeling safe and covered. You might also find additional incentives and schemes that can help your fleet reduce time while improving the service quality and drivers’ safety.
Look After Your Fleet and Drivers
Your drivers are at the core of your company and one of your whole business’s most valuable assets. They are the professionals you can count on for long and short journeys alike. Undeniably, the job requires focus, stamina, and endurance.
However, it is also crucial for them to have the brightest smile upon delivering. After all, their customer service will also be taken into consideration. Because this job can be so challenging, it is the company’s task to look after the driver’s wellbeing.
You can do so by ensuring fair work shifts and guaranteeing an ideal work-life balance. However, it is also worth considering implementing alternative programs such as Mindfulness In The Workplace.
Be Different
Your company’s drivers are the only point of contact between a business and its customers. Of course, buyers would have purchased their goods online on an eCommerce store. However, the first person they associate with what they have received is the driver.
And, while the industry is thriving during this crisis, the competition is getting fiercer. Therefore, it is crucial to train your drivers in customer service, ensuring that the service quality is not disrupted at any point. You can also implement additional programs to ensure that anybody can leave a great first impression on all customers in your fleet.
