small trucking company business plan

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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How to Start a Trucking Company

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When most people think about booming industries in the U.S., trucking might not be the first one that comes to mind. But one drive on an interstate should tell you all you need to know about the demand for trucking and haulage companies.

If you’ve been thinking about starting a business of your own and love driving and logistics, a trucking company may just be the right fit. Just over 70% of all U.S. freight moves through trucks, which means that there’s always a demand for trucks —and, more importantly, trucking companies.

If you want to know how to start a trucking company, there are plenty of factors to consider, including hiring employees, choosing your business entity, and securing financing.

We’ll break down what you need to know about how to start a trucking company from start to finish and help you make the right decisions to get your trucking business in high gear.

How to start a trucking company in 5 steps

If you’re still with us so far, odds are you’re ready to take the plunge into starting your own trucking company. Now that you’re convinced, let’s get into how to start a trucking company by looking at the critical tasks you’ll need to accomplish before you get on the road and join a great big convoy.

Step 1: Write a business plan

It might not seem like you’d need to write a business plan for a trucking company, given that the underlying operating premises are somewhat straightforward. Writing a business plan, however, helps you focus on the core parts of your company. A good business plan lays out the reason for your company’s founding, the capital required to get started, financial projections that display costs versus anticipated profits, and other strategy details.

Writing a trucking company business plan keeps you focused on building your company according to a blueprint, which is especially helpful as you get into the dirty work of getting started and may not have time to refocus on your overarching strategy. Just as importantly, you’ll also need a business plan as part of just about any small business loan application. You’ll be glad you created a plan before you start applying for funding, as the process will be smoother. To help you get started, check out our free business plan template.

Step 2: Register your business

Once you’ve written a rock-solid business plan, the next step you’ll want to take to start a trucking company is to register your business with any local or state governments that require it.

Choose a business entity

You’ll want to take a look at the different kinds of business entities available to you before submitting your paperwork. Each business entity offers various personal liability protections, taxation methods, ownership structures, and other technical differences. If you’re starting a one-person, self-owned trucking company, look into limited liability companies (LLC) to protect your personal assets. If you’re establishing your company with a business partner, you will also want to consider the different kinds of LLCs designed for partnerships (limited liability partnership) and corporations. There are other business entities out there as well worth considering, but it’s best to start with these two categories and determine from there whether or not you need to go with something different.

The process of incorporating your business is relatively straightforward, even if it’s a little paperwork-heavy. Typically all it takes is some supporting documentation about the company’s principals and founders, tax identification information, a general business agreement, and a few other materials about your soon-to-be company (which largely differ depending on the state you’re registering in).

Choose a business name

Alongside registering your business, be sure to choose a unique business name. Your business name will the first impression for potential clients, so make sure it communicates your brand, specialty, and personality.

Also, be sure that your business name is not taken. Once you have a boil down your options to a few names, do a quick secretary of state and U.S. Patent and Trademark search to ensure the name you're considering are available for use.

How much do you need?

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We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

Step 3: Obtain business licenses, permits, and insurance

Next, make sure your trucking company is operating legally. To do so, you'll want to look into business licenses, permits, and insurance.

Business licenses and permits

Trucking companies face unique challenges and liabilities, which makes it crucial that you line up all the required licenses and insurance policies as required by your state of operation.

Most, if not all, states will require you to get a business license if you intend to headquarter your business within its boundaries. You’ll need to get these policies and licenses set up before your first shipment hits the road.

Another license you must secure is an International Registration Plan. This is required if your truck is 26,000 pounds and crossing state lines. This allows you to operate your truck in all states and some Canadian provinces.

As regulations vary by state, consult with your state’s guidelines to find out exactly what you need to stay on the right side of local regulations.

Business insurance

Some types of business insurance you’ll likely need to obtain include public liability insurance, cargo insurance, bobtail, and physical damage insurance. If you’re unsure about whether you're fully compliant with your business requirements, it’s always a good idea to consult with a startup lawyer that's worked with other trucking companies. Their expertise ensures you're taking all the legally required steps before starting your trucking business.

Step 4: Choose the right truck

Your commercial truck will be one of your most significant investments when learning how to start a trucking company—it’s essential that you choose the right one for your business. When selecting your truck, you’ll want to consider some of the factors:

Comfort level

Your preferred cab style

Weather resistance

Whether they have multiple dealerships across the U.S.

Weight limit

New vs. used

Whether you’re operating locally or long distances

As with any vehicle you purchase, you should do a test drive. But if you want to narrow down your brands, you’ll find that Kenworth, Freightliner, and Peterbilt trucks can accommodate most of your trucking needs:

Buy vs. lease

This buy vs. lease debate depends on your buying power as a small business owner. And there are several advantages and disadvantages that accommodate each route. When you buy a truck outright, your payment is completed—no need to make monthly payments. You can also use the built-in equity to trade in your truck in the future. Of course, this also means a larger down payment—usually 10% to 25%—depending on whether you buy new or used.

When you lease, you don’t own your truck. You must make regular payments and cannot use the equity to buy a new truck. Also, you must abide by specific regulations, including maintaining its condition and mileage restrictions. But leasing offers some advantages—mainly, the lessor will often cover your maintenance expenses.

Whether you choose to buy outright or lease, you will still likely need to find some way to finance your purchase.

Step 5: Secure startup funding

As we mentioned above, buying a commercial truck is no small expense. Thus, you'll likely need to secure startup funding to get your trucking business off the ground. Besides the below funding options, also consider opening a business bank account and credit card.

How much does it cost to start a trucking company?

Trucking can be lucrative, no doubt. It’s also guaranteed to require a fair amount of capital to start a trucking company—a commercial truck costs around $80,000, after all. Then, of course, there’s the capital that goes into keeping your fleet operating at peak performance. In addition to purchasing your truck, you’ll also want to factor into your business budget:

Registration and documentations

Business permits and licenses

Truck maintenance fees

Accounting/invoicing software

These expenses can tally up. According to the Small Business Administration, trucking and transport companies took out an average loan of $106,000. So, if you want to learn how to start a trucking company with no money, you won’t get very far. You will likely need to seek additional funding to make your business plan a reality.

The good news is that there are a ton of business loan options available to trucking businesses:

You’ll find that SBA loans are increasingly popular due to their low interest rates, high loan totals, and generous repayment terms. Moreover, the SBA guarantees up to 85% of the loan’s total if the borrower can’t make repayments.

These loans are great to kickstart your trucking company but are notoriously hard to get. You need a long and established credit history, a good credit score, and a high tolerance for paperwork. If you think you can make the cut, check this full list of SBA loan types.

Commercial truck financing

If you don’t qualify for an SBA loan, equipment financing loans are a great alternative and also offer borrower-friendly repayment terms. Under this umbrella, you’ll also find commercial truck financing for buying or leasing new or used trucks or repairing or upgrading a truck you already own.

The way this type of loan works is you will approach the lender with a quote for exactly how much your equipment (in this case, most likely a truck) will cost. If approved, the lender then provides you with the appropriate sum of money, which you’ll repay (plus interest) over a fixed amount of time.

Keep in mind that the truck serves as collateral, should you fail to repay your loans. Because of this “safety net,” lenders are more likely to approve you for commercial truck financing.

Small business term loans

Another option to help start your trucking company is a business term loan. A lender provides a certain sum of money to the borrower to be repaid during a set amount of time. The interest rate associated with the loan may stay fixed throughout its duration or may vary based on economic factors.

While short-term business loans are easier to get than SBA loans—chiefly because they have lower credit requirements and easier applications—they typically hold higher interest rates, lower loan tallies, and must be repaid much more quickly.

Start Your Dream Business

4 reasons to start a trucking company

Here are the top four reasons why learning how to start a trucking company could be your next business venture:

1. There’s a major shortage of drivers

The trucking industry is forecasted to need 100,000 drivers in the near future, and companies are desperate to find drivers to fill the void. When you want to figure out how to start a trucking company, this will likely provide you with a tactical advantage, considering that you’ll be helping to fill a need for more trucks and drivers.

2. There’s a need for innovation in the industry

Nearly any industry welcomes innovation—including the trucking industry. Increasing efficiency within your fleet and establishing less fuel-intensive routes and logistics helps you improve your value to your customers. This gives you a competitive advantage, positioning your business for long-term success.

3. It's recession-proof

Trucking is the backbone of the country’s economy. As a trucking business owner, you’ll play a pivotal role in getting goods to stores and warehouses. Also, the trucking industry is largely recession-resistant —there is always a need for trucking companies to obtain products and materials across the country.

4. It’s easy to start small (and scale)

You won’t have to invest as much into your trucking company before it turns a profit, and you can better expand your business as demand—and your profit margin—grows. Eventually, you can learn how to start a trucking company without driving by hiring additional employees and drivers.

The bottom line

Learning how to start a trucking company can sound complicated. In reality, it’s not dissimilar to the steps involved in starting a small business of any other stripe. Your equipment costs may be a bit higher, and the hunt for talent a bit more competitive, but the underlying principles involved in starting a trucking business are still the same. With the right business plan, licensure, and financing in place, you too can get the wheels rolling on your trucking business.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

On a similar note...

• Sep 29, 2023

How to Create a Successful Trucking Business Plan: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated: Apr 16

Writing up your trucking business plan is one of the first things you need to do when you start a trucking company. Your plan will allow you to clearly define your trucking business and give you some direction before you get out on the road.

Your plan should include your goals, define how your company will be different, explain how you will grow, how you are going to acquire clients, and a financial plan that shows how you are going to make money. This business plan will be a fluid document and should be updated every year or so.

Steps to consider prior to creating a business plan for a trucking company

Before you start writing a business plan for your trucking company, there are several important steps you need to take. These steps will help ensure that you’re officially registered, and in compliance, with trucking industry regulations.

First, you'll need to register your trucking company as a business with the appropriate state and local authorities. This typically involves filing the necessary paperwork and paying any required fees. Not sure what business structure you should be? Click here to learn about the different options.

Next, you'll need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This number is used for tax purposes and is also required when applying for certain licenses and permits.

In addition to the EIN, you'll need to obtain a USDOT number. This number is issued by the Department of Transportation and is required for any commercial motor vehicle that transports cargo or passengers across state lines.

You'll also need to apply for a Motor Carrier number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This number is necessary if your company operates as a for-hire carrier and requires you to comply with FMCSA regulations.

Another important step is filing a BOC-3, or a Designation of Process Agent form. This form designates a person or company to receive legal documents on behalf of your trucking company.

Additionally, it's crucial to obtain truck insurance that meets the minimum requirements set by your state and the FMCSA. This will protect you, your drivers, and your client's cargo in the event of an accident or damage.

Other steps to consider include setting up an International Registration Plan and International Fuel Tax Agreement , which allow your company to operate across state borders and file fuel taxes accordingly. Lastly, you'll need to obtain a Unified Carrier Registration, which is an annual fee paid to the UCR program.

By completing these steps, you'll ensure that your company is legally registered and operating in compliance with industry regulations. This will not only give you peace of mind but will also help attract potential customers.

Essential information for creating your trucking business plan

When creating a trucking business plan, it is crucial to gather all the necessary information to ensure its success. Here is a list of key details that need to be considered:

Determine assets and liabilities: Assess your financial situation, including the availability of trucks, finances, and other resources.

Understand spot market vs. contract market rates: Differentiate between the two types of pricing models to develop a clear revenue strategy for your trucking business.

Research going rates in freight lanes: Analyze the current rates in the specific freight lanes you plan to operate in to accurately determine your pricing strategies.

Calculate operating costs and cash flow: Conduct a comprehensive analysis of all expenses , such as fuel, maintenance, insurance, and permits, to determine the company's financial viability.

Know where to find loads: Research and identify reliable load boards or freight brokers to ensure a consistent stream of work for your trucking business.

By obtaining this information, you can lay a solid foundation for your trucking business plan. Success in the trucking industry requires a thorough understanding of assets, liabilities, market rates, operating costs, and load availability. A well-informed and comprehensive plan will increase your chances of attracting potential clients, securing loans, and ultimately thriving against your competitors in the trucking industry.

What to include in a trucking company business plan

When starting a trucking company, having a solid plan is essential for success. A trucking company business plan outlines the strategy and goals of the business, as well as the targeted market and potential customers. It serves as a roadmap for the company's operations and provides crucial information for potential customers or lenders. In order to create an effective business plan, there are several key components that should be covered. This includes a company description, market analysis, operational plan, financial plan, and marketing strategies. Additionally, details about the management team, target market, types of freight, and potential competitors should also be considered. By including all of these essential elements, a trucking business can set itself up for success against its competitors.

Executive summary

This is a summary of your company and your personal reasons for starting a trucking company. It is important to highlight your unique qualities and make a positive impression. It is recommended to seek assistance from an editor to refine your executive summary. It is advised to write this section last for optimal results.

Company Description

Your plan should start with a general description of your company. Begin with the background of the business and how it got started. It should also include the overall mission statement of the company and some of the key facts.

The overall mission of the company should go into what you plan on delivering and how you are going to differentiate yourself from the competition . Key facts could include when the company was founded, the number of employees on the team, what states you plan on operating in, and any other facts you feel are important about the company.

Within the services section of your trucking business plan, explain what materials you plan on hauling and what industries you plan on operating in. You should also go into detail about how the service you provide will be beneficial to the clients in the locations you are operating in. This will help justify why you will be successful and why your services will be in demand.

Market Analysis

In the market analysis, you should portray how well you know the industry. It should give insight into where the industry is going and how you will capitalize on the changes. In addition to the industry outlook, your market analysis should include your target market, the characteristics of the market, the market's size, and how much of the market you want to capture. Thinking about these things will take time but will help you set goals you'd like to accomplish.

Management and personnel

If you plan to have staff or additional office help, your business plan should include details on your approach to hiring people. This should encompass your hiring process and how you will onboard new employees.

Owner-operators will need to adhere to the compliance standards set by the shippers and brokers they collaborate with. It is important to familiarize yourself with basic industry standards, regulatory compliance, and safety records.

Hiring skilled drivers with strong performance records will greatly contribute to the growth of your business, allowing for expansion into additional freight lanes. It is essential to have a retention plan in place due to the highly competitive market and high demand for qualified drivers.

If you find that managing people and paperwork is not your strength, it may be worth considering hiring additional personnel or a trucking business service partner to assist with running your business.

Sales and Marketing

Knowing what part of the market you want to capture is only half the story. You need to figure out how you're going to get the word out about your company. Specifically, what channels you will utilize to market your business and where you want to promote your business will be important for not just acquiring customers but keeping them long-term.

Through your marketing tactics, you will be able to build up a pipeline of potential clients. However, it is not likely that all your contacts will reach out to you first. You will need to come up with a plan for how you're going to engage those people who know about your company but aren't yet convinced they need your services.

This part of the trucking business plan will be crucial for the success of your company. It is easy to describe your business and what type of customers you want to serve but actually coming up with a strategy to acquire those potential customers will take time and effort.

Financial Projections

Within your financial projections, you will prove how your company will be able to stay in business and meet its goals. You should provide basic statements like profit & loss , cash flow, and a balance sheet. You will also need a sales forecast for the next three to five years.

Making financial projections might be difficult for those who are not experts in finance and who have never prepared information like this before. If you need assistance with your financial projections, give ATBS a call at 866-920-2827. We have been in the industry for over 25 years helping owner-operators keep track of their finances.

Finishing your trucking business plan

A trucking business plan may be time-consuming and seen as an obstacle getting in the way of getting out on the road. However, your plan will allow you to think about the big picture of your company and it will help you realize what it will take to be successful. You might also discover things that could stand in your way.

Not all business plans need to look exactly like this and there are plenty of sources online to help you get started. Don't skip out on this important step in starting your trucking business!

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How To Write a Winning Trucking Business Plan + Template

Creating a business plan is essential for any business, but it can be especially helpful for 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 trucking business owner should include in their business plan.

Download the Ultimate Trucking Business Plan Template

What is a Trucking Business Plan?

A trucking 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 a Trucking Business Plan?

A 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 Trucking Business Plan

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

Executive Summary

The executive summary of a trucking 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 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 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 trucking firm, mention this.

You will also include information about your chosen trucking business model and how, if applicable, it is different from other companies in your industry.

Industry Analysis

The industry or market analysis is an important component of a trucking 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 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, a trucking business’ customers may include:

• Retailers who need goods delivered to their stores
• Manufacturers who need raw materials shipped to them
• Big box stores that require inventory to be delivered to multiple locations

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 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 trucking business via public relations and pitch your story to reporters.

Operations Plan

This part of your trucking 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 a trucking business include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include hiring key personnel, acquiring necessary licenses and permits, and establishing partnerships with vendors.

Management Team

List your team members here including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to your specific 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 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 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 trucking business.

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup 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 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.

Now that you know what you should include in a trucking business plan, it’s time to get started on your own. Use the tips and examples provided in this article as a guide, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from an experienced business advisor or mentor. With a well-crafted business plan in hand, you’ll be ready to hit  the ground running and build the trucking company of your dreams.  

Finish Your Trucking Business Plan in 1 Day!

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With our Ultimate Trucking Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

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How to Write a Trucking Business Plan

Unless you have rich relatives willing to finance your trucking business with no questions asked, it’s in your best interest to write a business plan to aid you when approaching lenders, investors or partners to maximize your chance of getting funding assistance. A comprehensive, detailed and properly structured trucking business plan can help you get the financing you need to purchase trucks, truck equipment and other necessities. But more importantly, it also provides a critical road map of practical and logistical steps you’ll take when starting a trucking business.

What to Include in a Trucking Business Plan

A trucking business plan should contain much of the same information as any other type of business plan, regardless of the product or service the business provides. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), a good business plan “guides you through each stage of starting and managing your business … [including] how to structure, run and grow your new business.” For truckers, the business plan should include industry-specific information that displays a thorough knowledge of what it takes to be competitive and profitable, according to the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), a Missouri-based organization that advocates for the rights of professional truck drivers. The first thing you’ll want to do before sitting down to write your business plan is figure out what potential lenders, financiers or investors need to know to ensure your funding requirements are met. You will need to include some customized information in your business plan that is specific to your company’s individual needs. However, just about all business plans should include the following, according to the SBA:

Executive Summary

Company description, market analysis, sales and marketing, funding request, financial projections.

The details in each section will differ depending on whether you want to be an independent owner-operator or company owner with a fleet of trucks. There will also be variations based on the type of freight you’ll be hauling and where your trucks will be travelling. As a general rule, though, each section should contain detailed and accurate information that lets potential investors or partners know you’ve done your due diligence on the trucking industry and have a clear understanding of what it takes to be successful.

Steps to Take Before Writing a Business Plan for Your Trucking Company

As you begin the process of obtaining financing, it’s a good idea to do as much legwork as possible ahead of time so you'll be ready to hit the ground running when your financing comes through. Linda Finch, a compliance specialist with the OOIDA, recommends taking the following steps:

• Register your business as either a sole proprietorship with a DBA, a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a corporation.
• Obtain an Employee ID Number (EIN).
• Register your business with the U.S. Department of Transportation to get a federal DOT number. You’ll need to provide information on where you’ll be operating, how many trucks you plan to have and the types of trucks, whether you’ll haul hazardous materials, your vehicle weight, the type of cargo and whether you’ll be a freight forwarder.
• Apply for a Motor Carrier (MC) number. This can be done online via the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
• File a BOC-3 with the FMCSA. This form “gives motor carriers, brokers and freight forwarders a legal presence in any state where they do business,” according to the RTSFinancial website.
• Obtain truck insurance. Finch recommends $750,000 in primary liability insurance, $100,000 in cargo insurance and $1 million in liability insurance. Primary liability covers damages to people or property caused by your truck or trucks.
• Get your apportioned plates and set up an International Registration Plan, or IRP. According to the IRP website, this is a an agreement between the states, District of Columbia and Canadian provinces that recognizes the registration of commercial motor vehicles registered by other jurisdictions. It provides for “payment of apportioned licensing fees based on the total distance operated in all member jurisdictions.”
• Set up an International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) account, which is another agreement between the U.S. and Canada that simplifies fuel use taxes by interstate carriers, according to the California.gov website.
• Get a Unified Carrier Registration (UCR). This requires carriers and other businesses involved in interstate commerce to pay annual fees based on fleet size to supplement funding for state highway motor carrier registration and safety programs, according to UCR.gov.

Information to Gather for Your Trucking Business Plan

The OOIDA also recommends that truckers educate themselves on industry and financial basics before putting their business plans together. To that end, the OOIDA offers business education training seminars designed to help those who are starting a trucking business. The seminars cover everything from obtaining financing and developing the right financial plan to ensuring that all the right boxes are checked in terms of permits, licensing, taxes and compliance. When developing your business plan, the OOIDA offers the following guidelines:

• Determine what your operating assets are in comparison to your liabilities.
• Learn about managing costs to realistically project your financial success.
• Determine your cost of operations, including the fixed and variable costs.
• Determine how much cash flow you will need in order to succeed.
• Develop realistic operating procedures that reflect the freight you will be hauling and the demographics of where the freight originates and where it is delivered.
• Research the different rates required by different freight lanes, and why they differ.
• Learn where to get freight and when to use or avoid load boards. Load boards, also known as freight marketplaces, are online load and truck freight boards used by owner-operators to find their own loads.
• Educate yourself on spot market versus contract rates. Aborn & Co., a Massachusetts-based provider of managed freight solutions, describes a spot rate as “a one-time single-use rate quote that is valid for a short period of time and is issued to a shipper at or near the time of their shipment.” A contract rate is “a fixed price that is valid for a predetermined period of time and is negotiated with a shipper in advance of any freight moves.”
• Research the advantages and disadvantages of adding fuel surcharges to your pricing.

It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the basics of accounting, regardless of whether you plan to handle this function yourself or contract it out to a third party. Courses are offered online and at community colleges that can help you learn about balance sheets, profit-loss statements and how to calculate total assets and total liabilities.

When you’re ready to start writing your business plan, using a template or outline like the one below will ensure your business plan is properly structured and organized. Read: 4 Signs It’s Time to Get a Business Line of Credit

Trucking Business Plan Template

To expedite the trucking business plan process, utilize a basic business plan template and customize it to your needs. Regardless of your industry, all business plans should cover the same key sections. Here are key sections to include when writing a business plan for a trucking company:

This section should provide a short overview of your company and its plans for the future. Include details on your company mission, financial information and performance and growth plans. Ideally, the executive summary will be no more than one or two pages. Because it’s the first thing someone will read, you need to make a strong impression here. Keep the wording crisp, compelling, precise and to the point. If you don’t catch the reader’s attention and make a strong case for why you’re starting a business and why it will succeed, your business plan might get pushed aside before anyone has a chance to read the rest of it. Related: How to Start Your Own Trucking Company in 10 Steps

The next section of your trucking business plan is the company description. This is where you write about the background of your business and your connection to the trucking industry. You can go into a little more detail here about the company mission, how your business will differ from the rest of the playing field and who’ll make up your client base. Use this section to outline the advantages you have over competitors. For example, you might have expertise in a particular type of freight or market, or a strong network of logistics companies, shippers and freight brokers. Provide details on your experience in the business, including everything from starting out as a truck loader to managing a fleet of truckers. This is also where you’ll provide key facts about your trucking business, such as the owners and management team (if applicable), the year of incorporation, where you’ll operate and the states your business is registered in. You will also provide details on employees (if any), their roles and responsibilities and your plans to hire more as your business grows.

In this section, you’ll outline the services you plan to offer, how you’ll go about executing them and how they will meet market demand. If you are licensed to haul hazardous materials, for example, explain how this is a competitive advantage and what kinds of customers will require your services. Provide information on where you’ll be operating and how that will impact your services. A trucker in the Southeast, for example, would probably haul more construction materials than one in the Northeast. Similarly, a trucker in the prairie states would probably have more seasonal business tied to farming. The services section should also include details about your pricing structure, the types of freight you plan to haul and the industries you’ll serve. Read This: 10 Business Plan Tips for Your Startup

In many respects, the market analysis portion is the most important section of your trucking business plan because it’s where you can wow lenders and investors with your market knowledge. The goal here is to provide the kind of data that shows you’re well-versed in industry trends, market demand, what works well and doesn’t work well in winning new business and the techniques you’ll use to gain an edge over rivals. Your market analysis should include the following information:

• Industry Description and Outlook: Provide data on the size of the trucking industry in both dollars and carriers. Include the number of competitors, the biggest players, the biggest shippers and the annual revenue the industry generates. Also, provide data on how the industry is expected to grow and evolve over the next five to 10 years.
• Target Market: This is where you’ll narrow down the data to your specific niche market (e.g. tankers, refrigerated loads, flatbeds, etc.). Use this space to provide information on the market size in dollars, the number of competitors, the biggest shippers and carriers and the market outlook over the next five to 10 years. Explain how you plan to stand out from the crowd in terms of services, expertise, price and reliability.

Also, provide data on how much market share you expect to carve out during a specified time period and how you plan to grab it. Be specific here. Instead of saying, “We plan to gain share by providing exceptional service,” explain what makes your service exceptional, how it differs from the competition and why customers will migrate to your company.

• Pricing and Margins: Provide details on how you intend to price your services, how those stack up against competitors and what kinds of margins you’ll need to operate on to be profitable.
• Competitor Analysis: Potential lenders and investors will want to know that you have a deep knowledge of the carriers and owner-operators you’ll be competing against. Provide detailed information on competitors, who their main customers are, what they do well, where their weaknesses lie and how you plan to exploit those weaknesses.
• Regulatory Environment: The trucking industry is heavily regulated by the federal government (and some state governments) in terms of the number of hours you can drive in a day and a week, the types of material you can haul and where you can haul them, your vehicle’s fuel emissions and the types of permits and licenses required to operate. Explain the regulations you’ll need to operate under and how you plan to comply with them.

You can touch on operational risks here as well, particularly as they pertain to how pending legislation or regulations could impact your business.

Reaching the right people at the right time and in the right way will be a key element of your trucking business’ success. So will convincing prospects to do business with you once you’ve established a relationship. The sales and marketing section of your business plan is where you outline strategies to find potential customers and sell them on your services.

• Marketing Strategy: Use this section to explain what you’ll do to build and grow your client base. Provide details on how you’ll market your business, whether through traditional advertising on industry websites, through social media, by purchasing phone and email lists, by visiting trade shows or some combination of the above or other means. Be specific about the types of clients your marketing will focus on and where they’re located. Also, provide details about the budget you plan to set aside for marketing.
• Sales Strategy: This section will mainly focus on the type of sales operation you plan to set up. If you plan to hire your own sales force, provide details on how many sales agents you expect to have on staff, what their pay structure will look like and what kind of weekly or monthly sale quotas you’ll implement. If you plan to use an outside third party to handle sales, identify companies you might use, why they’re successful and how much you’ll budget. Also, provide details on the process of finding and calling on prospects.

This section provides details on the financing requirements you’ll need to get your trucking business off the ground and keep it operating at full strength in the future. Be very specific in terms of the amount of money needed over the next several years and how it will be used. For example, you might use it to purchase a truck and truck equipment, pay salaries and bills and grow your client base. Also, specify whether you will require debt or equity, for how long and at what terms.

This is where you’ll disclose your company’s financial details and its ability to meet its fiscal targets. Include basic financial documents such as the balance sheet, profit-loss statement, cash flow statement and sales forecast. You can also include a break-even analysis explaining what you need to sell, either monthly or annually, to cover your costs of doing business. Provide an outlook of how the business is expected to perform over the next five years.

How to Get Financing for Your Trucking Business

Now that you have a trucking business plan in place, where do you go for financing? Banks and other traditional lending institutions are an obvious option, but they often won’t finance brand new businesses. Similarly, the Small Business Administration requires three years of business tax returns, which means startups have limited financing options. One option, however, is Seek Business Capital, which specializes in helping startups and early-stage business obtain the funding they need to get their businesses up and running regardless of time in business. To get pre-qualified for trucking business financing or to just learn more about your options, check out the ultimate guide to truck financing . More From Seek

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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.

In this article you’ll discover the 8 key things to do before you begin, access our exclusive Model-Based Planning® Worksheet and Expert Business Planning Bundle for logistics and delivery services, and more.

Unlock your trucking company’s potential and start your journey to success today!

Expert Resource

Pro consulting questions and recommendations.

The Model-Based Planning® Worksheet, curated specifically for trucking company owners, provides essential questions, advice, and recommendations from a professional trucking company planning consultant’s perspective. This invaluable resource helps you navigate the complexities of starting and growing your business.

With this worksheet, you will:

• Gather crucial information and insights for your trucking company’s business plan.
• Explore additional revenue streams to enhance your trucking company’s resilience.
• Receive guidance on personnel, expense, and strategy recommendations from industry experts.
• Streamline the planning process with expert advice and targeted questions.
• Be well-prepared when hiring a business plan writer or using business planning software.

Use this worksheet as a guide to navigate the complexities of trucking company planning.

Listen up. In the world of business planning, if you’re not asking the right questions, you’re already behind. The Model-Based Planning® Worksheet is your secret weapon, your cheat code, your unfair advantage.

Each question and recommendation in this worksheet is a chance to put your competition in the rearview mirror, even before you turn the key. It’s like having Fred Smith, the mastermind behind FedEx, in your corner, helping you craft a winning strategy.

This isn’t some fill-in-the-blank bullshit. The Model-Based Planning® Worksheet challenges your assumptions, forces you to think critically, and helps you uncover revenue streams you never knew existed. It’s like having a seasoned consultant on speed dial, without the exorbitant fees.

With this worksheet, you’ll zero in on your target market, carve out a niche, and account for every penny you’ll need to make your trucking company a force to be reckoned with. This isn’t just another template; it’s a tool that separates the winners from the losers.

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.

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 Create a Trucking Business Plan

If you have been frantically searching the phrase “business plan for trucking company” in hopes of starting your own freight business, this guide is for you! 

Below, our experts will provide you with a business plan creation roadmap so detailed that it would make Rand McNally jealous. We’ll break down the entire process into manageable steps so that you can successfully launch your new venture.

TAFS Financing

As one of the industry leaders, TAFS assists trucking companies to increase cash flow with factoring rates as low as 2.49%, business loans and 1-Hour Advance options.

What Is a Trucking Business Plan?

Before we outline how to create your trucking business plan, let’s recap what this detailed strategy entails. 

Your trucking business plan should outline all of the major components of your company. It should include information about what you plan to haul, where you would like to operate, and how much revenue you seek to generate. 

In addition, your plan should outline how you intend to hire and manage support staff, drivers, and other employees.

As you can see, a lot goes into creating a trucking business plan. After all, this information lays the foundation for your entire company!

Why Is It Important to Write a Business Plan?

Writing a business plan is important for a variety of reasons. For starters, it helps you turn your dream into a viable revenue-generating strategy. In it, you’ll need to hash out all of the fine details about your business, including your operational plan and the services you intend to offer.

Creating a trucking company business plan is also essential when it comes time to seek funding . Potential investors, financial institutions, and other interested parties will want to see how you plan to generate revenue. 

An incohesive or disjointed plan just might scare off prospective investors. On the other hand, a thoroughly crafted strategy can make seeking out funding much easier.

9 Steps: How to Create a Trucking Business Plan

Now that you know the “what” and “why” of creating a trucking business plan, let’s dive into the how:

Step 1: Executive Summary

During the first part of the creation process, you will need to write an executive summary. This brief summary should provide a general overview of your company: what state you will operate out of, your mission statement, and what prompted you to start your own business.

Step 2: Company Description

Your company description should read much like the “About Us” section on a corporate website. The description should expound upon your mission statement, explain your personal connection to the trucking industry, and provide additional background about the business.

This would be a good time to list out your relevant career experience as a truck driver, operations manager, fleet manager, etc. 

Step 3: Operational Plan

In this step, you’ll need to generate a highly technical operational plan. This plan should describe how you intend to manage processes such as driver dispatching. It should also outline the hierarchy and supervisory structure of the business.

Step 4: Services Offered

The services offered section is one of the most important components of your trucking business plan. This segment should detail what types of freight you intend to haul (i.e., LTL, truckload, refrigerated). You should also outline your pricing structure and demonstrate how your suite of services fills a need in the current market.

Step 5: Market Analysis

When you’re seeking investors, they will be particularly interested in your marketing analysis. This section of your plan should define your target market and should include both competitive analysis and industry analysis.

Target Market: Your target market or target audience refers to the customer base that might need your services. 

Competitive Analysis: As the name suggests, a competitive analysis refers to an assessment of competitors within your market. You should conduct research in order to identify which companies are offering the same services within the region that you intend to operate within. 

This analysis should also include information on their revenue (if publicly available), how many trucks they have, and their pricing model.

Industry Analysis: Whereas a competitive analysis includes information on other trucking companies, industry analysis is focused on the market as a whole. 

This analysis should include information on current trends so that you can predict how the market will change in the future. For instance, the industry analysis should help you determine whether there is projected to be an increase in demand for trucking services in the next 12 months.

Step 6: Management and Personnel

In this section of your trucking business plan, you should outline your company’s approach to hiring and managing employees. This section can detail onboarding processes, when staff will be paid (weekly, bi-weekly, etc.), and how many employees you need to launch your business.

Step 7: Marketing and Sales Strategy

How will prospective clients learn about your services? What mediums will you use to advertise your trucking company? Will you rely on an in-house marketing team? Do you plan to outsource these responsibilities? All of these questions must be answered in this section of your trucking business plan.

Step 8: Funding Request

One of the most challenging parts of creating a trucking business plan is writing out your funding request. This request should not only state how much funding you need to launch your business, but it must also provide a line-by-line breakdown of projected expenses. 

Some of the costs that you should detail in this section include general operating and overhead expenses, equipment purchases, payroll, and insurance premiums.

Step 9: Financial Projections

Your trucking business plan should also include financial projections that outline your estimated earnings during your first year in operation. 

These projections should be highly specific and include quarterly or monthly breakdowns of estimated revenue. 

If you’re already working as an owner-operator, include your current revenue, as this will help potential investors better understand your earning potential.

Step 10: Reassess and Adjust

Lastly, be willing to revisit your trucking business plan periodically. Reassess your plan at least once a quarter so that you can gauge how your business is performing in comparison to your previous projections. This approach will help you make informed decisions about the direction of your business so that you can maximize profitability.

Ready to Start a Trucking Company? 

Once you have created your plan, it is time to find a financial partner that will invest in trucking businesses. Look for a company that offers multiple cash flow solutions including small business loans , credit lines designed specifically for trucking companies, and cash advances. 

As the owner of a trucking business, your earnings will vary depending on the number of drivers you employ, what type of freight you haul, and several other factors.  However, owners can expect to gross approximately $2,000 to $5,000 weekly if they are operating their own vehicle and may earn an additional weekly profit of $500-$2,000 for every truck they have in their fleet.

Owning a trucking company can be quite profitable. However, crafting a great trucking company business plan is key to your success.

 Many small trucking businesses are LLCs or limited liability companies, as this approach insulates the owner and their assets from civil liability. While it may be possible to open your company without becoming an LLC, it is not recommended.

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TAFS is More than Freight Factoring

As one of the industry leaders, TAFS assists trucking companies to increase cash flow with some of the lowest factoring rates in the industry and a 1-hour advance option.

TAFS Freight Factoring

As one of the industry leaders, TAFS assists trucking companies to increase cash flow with some of the lowest factoring rates in the industry and 1-hour advance option.

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Trucking Business Plan

With the boom in online ordering and cross-border transactions, the demand for trucking is on the rise, and there is no stoppage in the near future. Thus, if you are planning to start your business right now, the timings are perfect.

Now your idea is validated, but have you thought about planning your idea thoroughly before actually executing it? Whether you want external investment or not, a trucking business plan will help you in each step of your journey as a guide.

Here the catch is how to write a business plan because it seems like a boring lengthy procedure, right? Worry not, our trucking business plan template with various examples will help you write yours.

Key Takeaways

• The executive summary is one of the most important parts readers will go through first, so keep it simple and engaging.
• Conduct a thorough industry analysis to get a better understanding of your business positioning.
• To ensure daily smooth operations, provide a detailed operations plan that includes who will work on what.
• Create realistic financial projections for your financial plan, you can even base your assumptions by looking at the competitor’s response.

Things to Consider Before Writing a Trucking Business Plan

The trucking business is the wheels of the economy, without it the world might close. As a long-distance trucking business transports a variety of goods that is necessary for living.

This industry generally includes trucking companies that operate between major metropolitan regions and cross-borders. The main services of the industry include:

• Truckload carriers
• Less-than-truckload carriers
• Other transportation services

According to American Trucking Association data , 11.46 billion tons of freight was transported by trucks only, accounting for 72.6% of domestic total tonnage shipped.

Thus, trucking was one of the most important sectors and will continue to be the one in the future too. Even, the revenue of trucking was $940.8 billion , which accounted for 80.7% of the total revenue of the industry of the nation.

As we now know the importance of the industry, let us get started with the trucking business plan outline along with various examples and guidance.

How to Create a Trucking Business Plan: A Detailed Guide

1. executive summary.

The executive summary should be the most engaging part for readers, summarizing the entire business plan.

It is generally the part business owners prefer to write at the last because till then they can get the full knowledge of the trucking company business plan.

Start your summary with a brief introduction of your business, as shown in the below example with the help of Upmetrics:

After the introduction, include information like

• Products Served
• Customer Focus
• Mission Statement
• Vision Statement
• Success Factors
• Financial Summary
• Call to action

Tip: Executive summary is a quick overview for your readers. They might not read the whole business plan and only read this section. Thus, make sure to keep it clear, precise, and crisp enough to grab their attention.

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2. Company Overview

Provide a detailed company description in this section. It includes the name of your own trucking business, the location of your office, the legal structure of your business, and other such information.

Also, do not forget to mention the type of your business, for example, your trucking company will be one from below:

• Freight trucking
• Intermodal trucking
• Specialized hauling
• Courier and delivery services
• Bulk commodity trucking
• Dump trucking

After that, mention the history of your company if your business is already in existence. Here is an illustration of the company’s history with the help of Upmetrics:

Also, describe the vision & mission statement of your trucking business along with your future goals. Add the names of the owners along with their qualifications and specifications.

In short, this section should provide an in-depth understanding of your business and business owners.

3. Industry Analysis

This analysis gives all the details about the trucking industry. It will support you in a better understanding of your business.

Here are some questions to ask while conducting industry analysis:

• What is the current size of the trucking industry in the USA?
• What are the major trends in the transportation industry?
• Who are the huge players in the industry and what is their market share?
• How is technology affecting the trucking industry?
• How are fuel prices affecting the operating costs of the businesses?

Conduction this industry analysis will educate you about the market and help you prepare marketing strategies according to the market trends.

In short, industry analysis will help you have a better understanding of the market and support you in making informed decisions.

4. Competitive Analysis

Competitive analysis will help you know your unique selling propositions (USPs) along with your market positioning. You will also be able to know your direct and indirect competitors & other trucking companies.

Start by listing out all your competitors along with their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

Focus more on your direct competitors and ask certain questions like:

• Who do they serve?
• What is their market share?
• What are their USPs?
• What is their pricing strategy?
• What do they need to work on according to their customers?

After conducting competitor analysis, understand your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats like below to better get your strong points.

This way you can get to know the USP of a trucking company. Once you get the USP, flaunt it in your own business plan.

5. Market Analysis

In the market analysis section, begin with market research and deep dive into the market where your trucking business will operate. Start the section by providing the details of your target market.

Your target market will depend on the trucking services you provide and on the location of your business.

Once you are clear about the target customers, discuss the market trends of the trucking industry. Mention what your customers prefer and what new they want.

For instance, here is the market trends section with the help of Upmetrics:

At the end of the market analysis, do mention the regulatory environment trucking companies need to follow in the particular location.

6. Product and Services

After knowing the market trends and conducting market analysis, give details about the services you will provide. Your trucking services might be one of these:

• Hazardous material transportation
• Freight transportation services
• Specialized transportation
• Intermodal transportation
• Last-mile transportation
• Reefer services
• Container drayage

Mention your time duration of the services in this section, to let your readers know the efficiency and capacity of your trucks. You can also add the images of trucks in this section along with their capacity.

Keep the language of this section understandable and simple to give knowledge about your services to the readers.

7. Sales and Marketing Plan

There are around 750,000 trucking companies in the USA that own at least 1-2 trucks. Therefore, being noticed in this much competition is necessary, which is why you need a proper sales and marketing plan.

Developing a marketing plan means writing down strategies to acquire potential customers and retain them.

Some of the marketing strategies for trucking companies are:

Having a professional website

Having a professional website will spread your reach to a wider audience.  On the website, you can showcase all your services and the images of the trucks directly to potential customers.

Content marketing

Write blog posts, infographics, and articles for the logistics industry in which you can promote your own business. This way you can establish your expertise too in the same niche.

Social media engagement

For a successful trucking company, staying active on social media is a necessity. Share industry trends, news, and other events on social media to engage with your customers.

Email marketing

Build an email list of potential and existing clients and send them newsletters or updates about your services, industry insights, and special promotions.

Once you have noted down how you will acquire customers, then mention the following things:

• Customer acquisition cost
• Your monthly marketing budget

8. Management Team

Letting your readers or investors know who is behind your trucking company will increase the appeal of your business plan.

The management team section tells about the people in charge of the trucking business and their experience of the work. If you have a new trucking company, then showcasing all your experienced managers will make your business look stronger.

Here is an example of a management team:

Management team of Maxwell Truck service

John Maxwell – CEO and Founder

John is the visionary leader who founded Maxwell Truck Service. With over 20 years of experience in the transportation and logistics industry, he sets the company’s strategic direction and oversees overall operations.

Sarah Adams – Chief Operations Officer (COO)

As the COO, Sarah is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the company. She manages dispatch, fleet maintenance, and driver scheduling to ensure efficient and timely delivery of goods.

Michael Turner – Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Michael is responsible for the financial health of the company. He manages budgets, and financial planning, and oversees financial reporting, ensuring the company’s financial stability and growth.

Karen Simmons – Director of Sales and Marketing

Karen leads the company’s sales and marketing efforts. She develops strategies to attract new clients and maintain strong relationships with existing ones, helping to grow the customer base.

9. Operations Plan

In the whole above plan, we have discussed mentioning your goals, now it is time to write the strategies of daily activities on how to achieve the above-mentioned goals. You can divide these goals into two parts:

Everyday goals

They’re the heart and soul of your trucking business’s daily life, from buying the most appropriate trucks to delivering the goods timely is a tricky thing. These are the everyday heroes that keep your business running smoothly.

Long-term goals

It’s all about milestones: the moments that make you pop the champagne. Picture celebrating your 10,000th timely delivery, hitting that milestone sales figure you’ve dreamt of, or expanding your team.

10. Financial Plan

For a successful trucking business, you will need a proper financial plan with practical financial projections. In the plan, you have to include the income statement, cash flow statement, and balance sheet for 3-5 years.

Income statement

An income statement also known as a profit and loss statement, describes the gross profitability of your business by deducting costs of goods sold from revenue.

For this, you don’t need to be greedy and make practical assumptions so that you can know the actual profitability range of your business. Here is a projected profit and loss statement for 3 years:

Balance sheet

Balance sheets display your assets and liabilities. Although they can contain a lot of details, like equity, goodwill, other intangible assets, etc. Here is an example of a balance sheet for 3 years with the help of Upmetrics:

Cash flow statement

Your cash flow statement helps you see how much money you need to start or grow your business and avoid running out of money. This cash flow should be maintained even for certain months after launch that is before you start making profits.

Surprisingly, you can make a profit but still face financial problems that could lead to bankruptcy. Therefore, you will need proper cash flow planning to avoid such circumstances.

Funding Sources For Trucking Business

Funding a trucking business might be difficult because of the high investments in the truck, various sources to get funding from are:

• Bootstrapping
• Truck financing companies
• Venture capital & angel investors
• Crowdfunding
• Family and friends

Download a Trucking business plan template

Ready to kick-start your business plan writing process? And not sure where to start? Here you go, download our free trucking business plan pdf , and start writing.

This intuitive, modern, and investment-ready template is designed specifically for trucking businesses. It includes step-by-step instructions & examples to help in creating your own trucking business plan.

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Finally! Now you know how to write a business plan for your business with the help of our trucking business plan example. Thus, you are a step closer to beginning or growing your business.

No doubt, writing a business plan with accurate financial projections is daunting, but it is a lot smoother with the help of business plan software . Therefore, take a deep breath, calm down, and get started with writing your business plan.

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Frequently asked questions, should i hire a professional to write my trucking business plan.

Hiring a professional for your business plan is a great option: it will make things easier for you. But no one knows your business better than yourself.

So, try writing your trucking company business plan with the help of business plan software. That way you will get guidance as well as professionalism in your plan.

How often should you update your trucking business plan?

Remember, your trucking business plan is a living document which means it is flexible and open for changes whenever you want. Ideally, at least updating your business plan once a month as per the current situation is advised.

Should I include photos of trucks and equipment in a plan?

Including photos of your trucks and other equipment is a good option to showcase the service range of your trucking business. Do not overuse them, and just include them in your products and services section.

What legal and regulatory aspects should be covered in a trucking business plan?

A trucking company business plan should include various regulatory aspects:

• Business structure
• Licenses and permits
• Vehicle rules compliance
• Driver compliance
• Record keeping

About the Author

Vinay Kevadiya

Vinay Kevadiya is the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, the #1 business planning software. His ultimate goal with Upmetrics is to revolutionize how entrepreneurs create, manage, and execute their business plans. He enjoys sharing his insights on business planning and other relevant topics through his articles and blog posts. Read more

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General Freight Trucking Business Plan

Start your own general freight trucking business plan

Mike's Trucking Service

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">, opportunity.

The USA has grown to be prosperous with many huge cities over miles of land. The cities need food and supplies. Long-haul trucks are the fastest and most efficient way to get people food before it spoils and other supplies that people need.

Mike’s Trucking Service is a Dallas, TX-based trucking company that aims to be one of the largest trucking companies in the USA.  Mike’s is initially focusing on the food industry with plans to diversify with new industries served. Mike’s has chosen the trucking industry as the growth prospects are encouraging and stable, with trucking dominating the freight industry in this country.

Mike’s will employ three distinct marketing efforts to raise awareness about the company and generate new customers. The first strategy is the use of promotions. This will focus on press releases and advertising using various different media. The second effort will be the use of incentives. The incentives will be offered to existing customers. The last effort will be social media to reach new and existing customers.

Mike’s Trucking Service is a customer-centric organization looking to become one of the premier trucking companies in the USA.  Profitability is forecasted to occur at month three. Mike’s has conservatively projected sales of $100,000 for year one and $400,000 for year three.

Competition

Although there are major players in each of the commercial carrier market segments, the market remains highly fragmented. According to a Google search of Dallas trucking, there are numerous companies providing different kinds of the trucking services. Major competitors for Mike’s Trucking are those companies who have comparable truck fleets and are also targeting the food industry.

Market research shows that customers in the food industry are price sensitive, and they value on-time deliveries, special handling capabilities, and less-than-truckload orders. Customer referrals and carrier’s reputation are believed to strongly influence the buying decision.

Mike’s Trucking enables someone to lease a truck, of any size, for any project that needs hauling. We will provide this service to the whole of the Dallas area, and hope to expand from this base area within the first five years of operation.

Expectations

The company is raising $165,000 for the purpose of financing equipment purchases to meet a growing demand for its services. The company management has reason to believe that an increased truck fleet will assist the company in its effort to widen its market offering and increase sales.

Financial Highlights by Year

Financing needed.

We will be raising $165,000. There will be $105,000 invested in cash for operations and $40,000 in equipment.

Problem & Solution

Problem worth solving.

The USA has grown to be prosperous with many huge cities over miles of land. The cities need food and supplies. Long-haul trucks are the fastest and most efficient way to get people food before it spoils and other supplies that people need. 

Our Solution

Mike’s will offer both for-hire trucking as well as private carriers. Most of their business will be derived from the private carriers.  For the private carrier segment, both truckload (TL) and less than truckload (LTL) will be offered.  Mike’s services will be especially attractive to the food industry, as participants in that industry typically use referrals, reputation, and customer service as purchasing variables. 

Target Market

Market size & segments.

 Market Segmentation

There are several potential customer segments that we will provide our transportation services to. Major customer segments include the food industry, PC, and semiconductor manufacturers, and retailers. The chart and table below outline the current market size and growth estimates for these customer segments in Texas.

Large established companies in the afore-mentioned segments (especially in the food industry) have their own truck fleets, while smaller players outsource the transportation function. The latter vary in the scale of their operations but have a steady demand for reliable transportation solutions. We will actively solicit such customers.

Target Market Segment Strategy

Mike’s Trucking will focus its marketing budget on a selected industry niche. A narrow-served market focus will help strengthen the company’s reputation of a reliable transportation services provider and will generate favorable referrals.

The major customer segment the company is focusing on is the food industry. Companies in this segment have varying needs, and Mike’s Trucking has already gained valuable experience serving such customers. The company management believes that by increasing its truck fleet it can capture additional clients and provide better service to existing clients.

Current Alternatives

Private carriers

Although private carriers comprise the largest component of the motor carrier industry, financial information isn’t available for them. However, the industry is estimated to provide services valued at some $200 billion annually (or 58% of motor carrier revenues in 1998).

The American Trucking Association (ATA) estimates that there are more than three million trucks operated by private fleets transporting 3.5 billion tons of freight annually.

For-hire carriers

The for-hire category generated $144 billion in 1998, or 42% of the industry total. Of that $144 billion, some $105 billion (73% of the sector’s business) came from truckload shipments, and $39 billion (27%) was from less-than-truckload and package/express delivery.

• Truckload (TL).  The national for-hire truckload segment had total revenues of $65 billion in 1998. The TL sector has historically been mostly privately owned, with the exception of the top ten publicly-owned companies (For this reason, we focused on the LTL sector in this survey). Schneider National Carriers was the largest TL operator, with revenues of $2.8 billion in 1998, followed by J.B. Hunt Transport Services ($1.8 billion), and the Landstar family of truckload carriers ($1.3 billion). Of the 50,000 truckload carriers, perhaps 95% had annual revenues of less than $1 million.
• Less-than-truckload (LTL).  The ATA estimates that the less-than-truckload market garnered $20 billion in 1998. Of this amount, the fast-growing regional segment accounted for slightly more than the national market.

Our Advantages

Our major competitive advantage is the vast industry experience and solid reputation of its owner, Mike Smith. His company is also well known among its clients for going that extra mile in the customer-service department.

Marketing & Sales

Marketing plan.

We market our services as solutions to the many companies requiring cargo to be transported promptly and efficiently. The company’s future marketing plans will be nationwide, emphasizing haulage capabilities for any cargo. The overall marketing plan for services is based on the following fundamentals:

• The segment of the market(s) planned to reach.
• Distribution channels planned to reach market segments: television, radio, sales associates, and mailings.
• The share of the market expected to capture over a fixed period of time.

At the time of this writing, Mike’s Trucking has a lease arrangement with various companies. The company’s pricing is based on miles per thousands of pounds of cargo transported. We will be able to charge competitive rates, as we have minimal overhead compared to our competition. The table below sketches out the pricing structure; for a key to this table please see asterisks at the bottom of the page.

Locations & Facilities

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Milestones & Metrics

Key metrics.

• Freight cost per unit shipped
• Outbound freight costs
• Inbound freight costs as percentage of purchases
• Transit time
• Claims as % of freight costs
• maintenance
• driver commissions
• repeat clients

Ownership & Structure

Mike’s Trucking has been in business for one year. We have maintained financial stability during the first year of operation due to the extensive industry experience of our management team.

The company’s management is minimal in order to reduce the overhead. Mike Smith, the company owner, and president makes all executive decisions. At the moment, he also generates most of the sales leads. Joan Rose works as an executive secretary who answers phone inquiries and maintains the customer database. A part-time sales representative will be hired to solicit new business once the company acquires new trucks. In year 2 the administrative staff is planned to increase in order to handle the higher sales volume. In the future, a sales manager will be hired to allow Mr. Smith more time to dedicate himself to company management.

Management Team

The management of Mike’s Trucking is highly experienced and qualified. Mike Smith, president and CEO, has been involved in the trucking industry for 15 years. He is well respected by the trucking professionals with whom he has worked. All administrative functions are performed by Joan Rose, who has worked with Mr. Smith for the last seven years. She possesses extraordinary customer service and database management skills.

The company’s management philosophy is based on responsibility and mutual respect. Mike’s Trucking maintains an environment that stimulates productivity and emphasizes respect for customers and fellow employees. The company structure is linear, which leads the staff responsibilities and decision-making power.

Our truckers on salary earn about $50K per year, which is close to the national average. Our two own-operators earn less because we are building a company. 

Personnel Table

Financial plan investor-ready personnel plan .">, key assumptions.

Our assumptions:

• Trucks are the best way to get food and supplies 
• The market will pay the prices needed to support the trucks 

Revenue by Month

Expenses by month, net profit (or loss) by year, sources of funds.

This business is owner operated and owner funded. 

Projected Profit & Loss

Projected balance sheet, projected cash flow statement.

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How to Write a Trucking Business Plan

Last Updated February 28, 2024

If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for trucking, you may have considered starting a trucking company . However, owning a business is a challenging task if you don’t have a plan.

A business plan can help you define your company’s mission to get investors, loans, partners, and employees interested. You will prove to people that you are serious about trucking and want to learn and grow in the industry.

By writing a comprehensive business plan, you can more effectively convey your company goals. They will help you determine your company’s unique qualities and how you can succeed in the foreseeable future.

When writing a business plan, you will want to keep a few pointers in mind to include in the final copy. Here are some strategies to help you start and run your trucking company.

What Is A Trucking Business Plan?

A trucking business plan is a written record of your company’s goals, operating costs, profits, and other relevant factors. Essentially, your trucking business plan is your business growth roadmap.

However, a business plan is not a static document. As your business changes and shifts with time, your plan should adjust to these changes to ensure you are still working toward your goals.

Why Do You Need A Trucking Business Plan?

You need a trucking business plan to cover all your bases before taking action. A trucking business plan is like a road trip map – you need it to know where you are going and how to get there. A trucking business plan supports your entrepreneurial efforts by helping in:

• Choosing the right location for company premises
• Determining what kind of trucks and equipment you need
• Defining which licenses and insurance policies to get
• Outlining the criteria for the driver hiring process
• Calculating your initial capital for investment purposes
• Deciding whether this business is worth creating

What To Include In A Trucking Business Plan

Your trucking business plan contains the information necessary to run your company. Some important things to include in a trucking business plan are:

• Executive summary : An executive summary is a short description of your plans for the company. It is usually used to give potential investors an overview of your company and entice them to read your business plan further.
• Detailed company description : This section is where you go in-depth into what makes your company tick. Common topics covered here include the management team’s background, your past trucking experiences, and what sets you apart from the competition.
• Services provided : Different trucking companies offer different services, so make sure to include a section that details what kind of freight services you provide.
• Market analysis : A thorough market analysis tells potential investors that you understand the industry landscape and know how to succeed. It also helps you identify what competitors do well and how you can differentiate your business from them.
• Sales and marketing strategy : The best-laid business plans will likely not succeed without a solid sales and marketing strategy. This section includes how you want to advertise your business and attract more clients.
• Financial projections : This section usually includes how much you need to start the business and how much you expect to gain. This helps investors measure your business’s profitability and potentially convince them to back your company.

How To Create A Trucking Business Plan

Now that we have covered what goes into a business plan, it is time to learn how to make one. Here are the key steps to creating a trucking business plan:

Picking a Name

One overlooked aspect of starting a successful business is choosing a fitting name. No matter the quality of your services, an unappealing name will detract customers.

To pick a name, brainstorm words that you associate with your business. Try to work with a group of trucking enthusiasts to ensure your ideas relate. Anything goes at first because you can narrow them down to your favorite words.

Some common trucking company names include:

• Family names
• Freight types
• Location-based names
• Plays on words
• Unique name inspired by your company’s personality

You will need to know the purpose of your business when choosing the name. If you want it to carry on through family generations, your surname could be the name. Those who specialize in hazmat, heavy-haul, or reefer may desire these terms in the title.

Companies that operate in one area might want to include that in the name to attract local business enthusiasts. Some more memorable titles include plays on words, metaphors, trucking references, and company culture allusions.

If you can picture the name on the side of a truck, you might have a winner on your hands. Make sure people can pronounce and remember it by avoiding anything long-winded. Also, try to come up with a logo.

Before registering your corporation, LLC, or partnership, check with the US Patent and Trademark Office to guarantee that you have a unique design.

Selecting a Target Market

You can select a target market for your trucking company by defining your goals. Specializing in too many markets may open the door to more customers, but it will lower the quality of your services. Ensure you choose a specific focus for your target market to deliver excellent business and maximize returns.

The various types of trucking companies include:

• For-hire truckload carriers
• Household movers
• Less-than-truckload carriers

For-hire truckload carriers haul the freight of manufacturing companies. These businesses lend drivers, trailers, and trucks to others, but they do not make anything themselves. Customers often hire household moving companies to pack, load, move, and unload their home’s items. This job is labor-heavy but typically in high demand.

Intermodal trucking companies will haul rail containers from the rail yard. A truck driver takes the freight to the rail yard, where a railway will move it to its final destination. There, another truck driver transports the goods to the customer. It has a lot of hands-on involvement, but starting this business works best if you live near a rail company.

Less-than-truckload carriers (LTL) deliver small products to homes and businesses at once. The drivers schedule the delivery to homes or have the customer get them from a distribution center. These companies have line haul and city drivers.

Perform a Competitive and Market Analysis

Your business plan needs a market analysis to show your expertise in the industry. Writing it will inform you of any trends, demands, and areas with the most success. Try to include these topics in your market analysis.

• Competitive Analysis: research similar trucking companies and describe the advantages and disadvantages of their business model
• Distinguishing Characteristics: explain your target customer’s needs and how you can fulfill them
• Gross Margin and Pricing Targets: figure out your margins, pricing structure, and discounts
• Industry Description: summarize your share of the trucking industry, determine its size, and name your primary competitors
• Market Share: calculate how much business you will gain within a year and explain how you reached these conclusions
• Regulatory Restrictions: analyze government regulations to see how they would affect your business
• Target Market: find your specialization and focus on the types of customers you believe you can satisfy
• Target Market Size: provide an in-depth analysis of your target customers

Use multiple resources to locate this information, and make sure to cite them. You want this report to show your authority on the topic, so don’t skimp!

Determining Your Competitive Edge and the Services You Offer

To stand out from other trucking companies, you will need to get a competitive edge. Analyze your experience to see where your strengths lie. If you worked as a driver, use your track record to prove your safe practices.

Even indirect experience like working as a committed employee can help. Reach out to your former employers to provide any references or connections to build your reputation and authority.

You can draw from your experiences to determine the services you wish to provide. Ask yourself some of these questions:

• What kind of freight will I haul?
• What equipment do I need to handle this freight?
• Will I operate intrastate or interstate?
• What type of trucking company do I want to run?
• Will I stay in one location or travel far distances?

Once you figure out the services you wish to offer, you can research the products you need before you can help customers. Look into financing, insurance, logging, and testing providers. Also, check out fuel services and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration guidelines.

Determining Your Rate-Per-Mile and Cost Structures

Your rate-per-mile determines how much you will earn for each mile you travel. Calculating your target rate-per-mile can help you figure out the type of business you want to run. First, estimate your ideal monthly profits. Then, divide this number by how many miles you wish to drive each month. Aim for a number about 10-15% higher than your break-even point , or the amount you need to make to cover your expenses.

Next, you should figure out your cost structures. You can do this by calculating the labor, equipment, and hours that go into completing a task and charging an amount about 10-15% higher for each service. You can earn a modest profit without overcharging your offerings.

Create a Marketing and Sales Strategy

Your marketing strategy features your tactics to attract new customers and retain them. A vital aspect is your advertising channels, such as social media, email, websites, internet ads, commercials, and trade publications. Write how you will use these methods to reach potential consumers.

Look to see if your marketing strategy requires costly purchases or acquisitions to calculate the affordability of your ideas. Also, include what regions and industries you will market to with your promotional materials.

A sales strategy describes your sales force. Consider if you want to use independent salespeople or hire ones yourself. Also, determine how you will identify a potential customer and how you can get their attention. Then, calculate your sales team’s closing rate to see if you can reach your company’s goals with your current techniques.

Make Financial Projections

The financial projections section features information concerning your financial statements and profitability. You will want your cash flow , profit, loss, balance sheet, and sales forecast included. Also, create a five-year projection and write how you will meet your goals.

A five-year goal should align with your current performance and any changes you plan on implementing to expand your profits.

Once your business is established, you can consider other cash flow financing options like factoring invoices , also known as freight factoring .

Make An Employee Plan

Your business plan should discuss who you need to hire. Trucking companies can be any size. A simple model may only have you and your truck acting as an owner-operator. You may want to expand your business with qualified drivers , multiple trucks, a sales team, office support, or dispatching.

If you have clearly defined company goals, you can readily create an employee plan. Figure out the amount of capital you can spend on hiring people and make a budget for how much of your profits you will spend on others.

Define Management and Organization

You can manage and organize your trucking business with computer software that you update regularly. Services like TruckingOffice or other accounting software can help you keep track of your payments, invoices, dispatch, fuel, truck maintenance, expenses, rate-per-mile, and mileage.

You could also do the math by hand, but a program can help you keep everything in one place.

Writing a trucking business plan is a tedious yet necessary task when starting a company. By including varied information about your organization, goals, competitors, profits, and employees, you can attract investors, partners, and customers.

Business plans build industry authority and help you become a trusted provider of trucking services. Try to update your plan once a year to stay on top of your business and expand it further.

Once you have your trucking company up and running, read our other guides about various aspects of the trucking business:

• What is a TWIC card and who needs one?
• What is a truck detention fee and how do you determine it?
• How to prepare for a Level 1 DOT inspection

Trucking Business Plan FAQs

Here are some common questions about trucking business plans answered.

How much cash do you need to start a trucking company?

The amount of cash you need to start a trucking company varies, but you can start a small trucking company with one or two vehicles for as little as $10,000.

What is the average profit for a trucking company?

The average profit margin of trucking companies is between 2.5% and 6%. If you operate your trucking company well, it can be a fairly lucrative business.

How do I start a trucking company from scratch?

You can start a trucking company from scratch by following these steps:

• Create a business plan.
• Register your company and obtain relevant licenses.
• Buy or lease a truck.
• Secure funding.

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Home » Transportation » Trucking Company

A Sample Trucking Company Business Plan Template

A trucking company is a company that is involved in transporting large quantities of raw materials, and finished goods over land—typically from manufacturing plants to retail distribution centers. The trucking industry hauled 72.5 percent of all freight transported in the United States in 2019, equating to 11.84 billion tons.

The trucking industry was a $791.7 billion industry in that same year, representing 80.4 percent of the nation’s freight bill. Available data shows that the industry is currently (2022) worth over $67.3 billion in the United States of America.

As of May 2015, over 90.0 percent of companies in the United States long-distance freight trucking industry are owner-operators. Therefore, even the top corporate operators only hold a small share of the total market.

According to the industry market research firm IBISWorld, J.B. Hunt Transport Services holds an estimated 2.5 percent market share, YRC Worldwide holds 1.8 percent, FedEx holds 1.6 percent, United Parcel Service of America owns 1.5 percent, and Con-way holds 1.4 percent.

Steps on How to Write a Trucking Company Business Plan

Executive summary.

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. is a licensed trucking company that will be based in Springfield, Illinois. They focus on special services that include; oversized, rare, and unusual commercial and military cargo, as well as the planning, coordination, and transportation of hazardous nuclear waste from source to destination.

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, 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 guiding the trucking industry and we will only hire experienced and qualified drivers with valid commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) to handle our trucks.

Benny Blanco is the founder and CEO of Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc.

Company Profile

A. our products and services.

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. will be involved in: Transporting large quantities of raw materials and finished goods over land—typically from manufacturing plants to retail distribution centers and also from seaports to warehouses et al.

b. Nature of the Business

Our trucking company will operate the business-to-consumer and business-to-business model.

c. The Industry

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. will operate in the trucking industry.

d. Mission Statement

Our mission is to be at the forefront of our industry and to make sure we build a successful trucking company that will operate in the United States of America and Canada.

e. Vision Statement

Our vision of to be listed among the top ten trucking companies in the whole of North America.

f. Our Tagline (Slogan)

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. – Your Trusted, Fast, and Highly Secured Trucking Company!

g. Legal Structure of the Business (LLC, C Corp, S Corp, LLP)

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. will be formed as a Limited Liability Company (LLC). The reason why we are forming an LLC is to protect our assets by limiting the liability to the resources of the business itself. The LLC will protect our CEO’s assets from claims against the business, including lawsuits.

h. Our Organizational Structure

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

i. Ownership/Shareholder Structure and Board Members

• Benny Blanco (Owner and Chairman/Chief Executive Officer) 52 Percent Shares
• Moses Selah (Board Member) 18 Percent Shares
• Joe Toddler (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
• Cain Dickson (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
• Isabella Winston (Board Member and Sectary) 10 Percent Shares.

SWOT Analysis

A. strength.

• Ideal location for a trucking company
• Highly experienced and qualified employees and management
• Access to finance from business partners
• Large storage facility
• Excellent customer testimonials
• Reliable and efficient trucks and vans
• Access to reliable trucking and logistics software.

b. Weakness

• Financial Constraints
• No structure for our maintenance and servicing team (will be contracting the servicing and maintenance of the trucks and vans for a period of a time)
• A new business that will be competing with well-established trucking companies and also haulage and trucking companies
• Inability to retain our highly experienced and qualified employees longer than we want

c. Opportunities

• A rise in existing construction, manufacturing, and shipping activities will increase demand for trucking services
• Online market, new services, new technology, and of course the opening of new markets
• Increase in the number of families moving from one apartment to another
• Increase in the movement of goods from one location to another
• Increase in production activities and warehousing.

i. How Big is the Industry?

The trucking industry is very big in the United States of America. The industry is responsible for most of the overland freight movement in the United States, with the market worth 732.3 billion U.S. dollars in 2020. At that time, there were over 902,000 truck drivers employed in the U.S., which is less than the industry requires.

ii. Is the Industry Growing or Declining?

Although the trucking industry declined in 2020, the industry is currently experiencing growth. Available data shows that steady wage expenses and increasing prices of fuel amid the low demand during the pandemic were responsible for reducing industry profitability.

Revenue in the trucking industry dropped 0.7 percent in 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The good news is that as the economy rebounds and moves are rebooked, the industry is expected to grow.

The industry was projected to record 5.4 percent revenue growth in 2023 and this is expected to outweigh the declines experienced earlier in the period, including 2020. Because the industry was deemed an essential service, operators have been able to maintain operations during most of the pandemic.

iii. What are the Future Trends in the Industry

The trucking industry is changing, and players in the industry are improvising. No doubt, technology (software apps, dashboard cameras, and electric trucking) and climate change (people moving either from cooler to hotter regions or hotter to moderate regions) will change the landscape of the trucking industry going forward.

iv. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry? If YES, List them

No, there are no existing niches when it comes to a trucking company, but a trucking company may decide to specialize in transporting certain types of goods.

v. Can You Sell a Franchise of your Business in the Future?

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. has plans to sell franchises in the nearest future and we will target major cities with thriving trucking markets in the United States of America.

• The arrival of new trucking companies within our market space
• Unfavorable government policy and regulations.
• Steady wage expenses and increasing prices of fuel amid the low demand during the pandemic will reduce industry profitability.
• Economic uncertainty
• Liability problems (Financing of trucks and vans that are bound to depreciate)
• The transport department could change its regulatory status and decide to enforce strict regulations that can strangulate new businesses.

i. Who are the Major Competitors?

• UPS Freight
• FedEx Freight
• YRC Worldwide
• Swift Transportation
• Schneider National
• Landstar System
• XPO Logistics
• Old Dominion Freight Line
• MVSN Trucking
• PLS Logistics Services
• Wynne Transport Service
• DVL Express Inc
• Independent Landstar Agent
• Shelton Trucking
• JetEx Logistics
• ATC Trucking
• Puma Logistics
• Diamond State Trucking.

ii. Is There a Franchise for the Trucking Business? If YES, List them and their cost

Yes, there are franchise opportunities for the trucking business. Here are they;

• Two Men and a Truck Int’l. Inc. (Initial Investment – $100,000 – $585,000)
• Zippy Shell Trucking (Initial Investment – $657,450 – $1,219,830)
• BlueGrace Logistics
• Craters & Freighters
• Worldwide Express
• United Shipping, Inc.
• SUPPLY POINTe
• United Charis Transport LLC
• Unishippers Global Logistics LLC
• AIT Freight Systems.

iii. Are There Policies, Regulations, or Zoning Laws Affecting the Trucking business?

Yes, there are county or state regulations or zoning laws for a trucking company, and players in this industry are expected to work with the existing regulations governing similar businesses in the county where their business is domiciled.

Please note that trucks are required to stop at motor carrier safety and weight inspection stations when signs direct them to do so. Driving large trucks and buses requires a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Obtaining a CDL requires extra education and training on how to handle such a large vehicle.

Drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) must adhere to the hours of service, which are regulations governing the driving hours of commercial drivers. Drivers must be at least 21 years old to drive on the interstates, with efforts being made to reduce the age to 18.

Marketing Plan

A. who is your target audience.

i. Age Range

Our target market comprises of adults above 18 years old who have the finance to do business with us.

ii. Level of Educational

We don’t have any restrictions on the level of education of those we are ready to do business with.

iii. Income Level

There is no cap on the income level of those we will help transport their goods or properties.

iv. Ethnicity

There is no restriction when it comes to the ethnicity of the people we will transport their goods or properties.

v. Language

There is no restriction when it comes to the language spoken by the people we will transport their goods or properties.

vi. Geographical Location

Anybody from any geographical location will be welcome to do business with our company.

vii. Lifestyle

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. will not restrict any client from doing business with us based on their lifestyle, culture, or race.

b. Advertising and Promotion Strategies

• Deliberately Brand All Our Vans and Trucks.
• Tap Into Text Marketing.
• Make Use of Billboards.
• Share Your Events in Local Groups and Pages.
• Turn Your Social Media Channels into a Resource
• Develop Your Business Directory Profiles
• Build Relationships with players in the manufacturing, shipping, and construction industry.

i. Traditional Marketing Strategies

• Marketing through Direct Mail.
• Print Media Marketing – Newspapers & Magazines.
• Broadcast Marketing -Television & Radio Channels.
• OOH, Marketing – Public Transits like Buses and Trains, Billboards, Street shows, and Cabs.
• Leverage direct sales, direct mail (postcards, brochures, letters, fliers), and referral (also known as word-of-mouth marketing).

ii. Digital Marketing Strategies

• Social Media Marketing Platforms.
• Influencer Marketing.
• Email Marketing.
• Content Marketing.
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Marketing.
• Affiliate Marketing
• Mobile Marketing.

iii. Social Media Marketing Plan

• Start using chatbots.
• Create a personalized experience for our customers.
• Create an efficient content marketing strategy.
• Create a community for our target market and potential target market.
• Gear up our profiles with a diverse content strategy.
• Use brand advocates.
• Create profiles on the relevant social media channels.
• Run cross-channel campaigns.

c. Pricing Strategy

When working out our pricing strategy, Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. will make sure it covers profits, insurance, premium, license, economy or value, and full package. All our pricing strategies will reflect;

• Cost-Based Pricing
• Value-Based Pricing
• Competition-Based Pricing.

Sales and Distribution Plan

A. sales channels.

Our channel sales strategy will involve using partners and third parties—such as referral partners, affiliate partners, strategic alliances in the production sector and the construction industry, and freelancers to help refer clients to us.

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. will also leverage the 4 Ps of marketing which are place, price, product, and promotion. By carefully integrating all these marketing strategies into a marketing mix, so we can have a visible, in-demand service.

b. Inventory Strategy

The fact that we will need loading crates, lubricants, and spare parts means that Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. will operate an inventory strategy that is based on a day-to-day methodology for ordering, maintaining, and processing items in our warehouse. We will develop our strategy with the same thoroughness and attention to detail as we would if we were creating an overall strategy for the business.

c. Payment Options for Customers

Here are the payment options that Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. will make available to her clients;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via credit cards
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via mobile money transfer
• Payment via bank draft

d. Return Policy, Incentives, and Guarantees

At Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc., we transport goods from one location to another hence the nature of our offerings does not accommodate a return policy, but we guarantee our customers of the safe delivery of the goods under our care.

e. Customer Support Strategy

Our customer support strategy will involve seeking customer feedback. This will help us provide excellent customer service to all our clients. We will work with effective CRM software to be able to achieve this. Regularly, we will work towards strengthening our Customer Service Team and also Leverage Multi-Channel Servicing as part of our customer support strategy.

Operational Plan

We plan to expand our revenue by 25 percent in the second year and the plan will include a marketing, sales, and operations component. The operations component of the plan would include attracting partnership and retainer deals that will enable the firm to boost our trucking service offerings and support revenue growth.

a. What Happens During a Typical Day at a Trucking Business?

• The business is open for the day’s work
• The vans and trucks are washed, cleaned and ready for transporting goods and properties
• Customer’s requests are taken and they are scheduled or attended to
• Schedule maintenance of trucks and vans is carried out
• Marketing/website upkeep
• Administrative duties
• The business is closed for the day.

b. Production Process

There is no production process when it comes to the trucking business.

c. Service Procedure

The service procedure for a trucking company starts with a customer requesting the transportation of his or her goods or properties from one location to another or from one storage facility, warehouse, or business premises to another. Once the request is gotten, it will be processed and a suitable truck or van and staff are assigned to carry out the job.

d. The Supply Chain

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. will rely on key players in the manufacturing and construction industry to refer business deals to us. So also, we have been able to establish a business relationship with wholesale supplies of crates, lubricants, spare parts et al.

e. Sources of Income

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. makes money from;

• Transporting large quantities of raw materials, and finished goods over land—typically from manufacturing plants to retail distribution centers and also from seaports to warehouses et al.
• Sale of franchises.

Financial Plan

A. amount needed to start your trucking company.

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. would need an estimate of $1.2 million to successfully set up our trucking company in the United States of America. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of our staff for the first month of operation.

b. What are the Costs Involved?

• Business Registration Fees – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $7,300.
• Marketing, Branding and Promotions – $5,000.
• Business Consultant Fee – $2,500.
• Insurance – $5,400.
• Rent/Lease – $200,000.
• Other start-up expenses like commercial satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500), and phone and utility deposits ($2,800).
• Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $100,000
• Start-up Inventory – $15,000
• Store Equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $4,750
• Furnishing and Equipping – $80,000
• Purchase of Trucks and Vans: $500,000
• Website: $600
• Opening party: $3,000
• Miscellaneous: $2,000

c. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much will it cost?

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. will not build a new facility for our trucking company; we intend to start with a long-term lease and after 5 years, we will start the process of acquiring our own facility.

d. What are the Ongoing Expenses for Running a Trucking Company?

• Gas and lubricants
• Utility bills (internet subscriptions, phone bills, signage, and software renewal fees et al)
• Salaries of employees
• Trucks and vans maintenance
• Marketing costs

e. What is the Average Salary of your Staff?

• Chief Operating Officer (Owner) – $68,000 Per Year
• Admin and HR Manager – $48,000 Per Year
• Transport and Logistics Manager $48,000 Per Year
• Marketing and Sales Executive (Business Developer) – $42,000 Per Year
• Accountant $38,000 Per Year
• Truck and Van Drivers – $36,800 Per Year
• Material Handlers / Yard Spotters / Forklifts Operators – $28,000 Per Year
• Customer Service Officer (Receptionist) – $26,100 Per Year
• Security Guard -$24,000 Per Year

f. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Trucking Company?

• Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
• Raising money from investors and business partners
• Sell shares to interested investors
• Applying for a loan from your bank/banks
• Pitching your business idea and applying for business grants and seed funding from the government, donor organizations, and angel investors
• Source for soft loans from your family members and friends.

Financial Projection

A. how much should you charge for your service.

Most trucking businesses charge an hourly rate that generally includes a moving truck, all the equipment, miscellaneous materials, and the movers. The more loaders and offloaders or trucks needed for your specific move, the higher the hourly rate will be. For example, a truck and 2 movers may cost $120 per hour. We will follow the industry’s standard.

b. Sales Forecast?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $450,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $750,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $1.3 million

c. Estimated Profit You Will Make a Year?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1) (Profit After Tax): $150,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2) (Profit After Tax): $350,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3) (Profit After Tax): $600,000

d. Profit Margin of a Trucking company 

The ideal profit margin we hope to make at Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. will be between 16 and 20 percent on each job carried out irrespective of the distance covered.

Growth Plan

A. how do you intend to grow and expand .

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. will grow our trucking company by first opening other offices in key cities in the United States of America within the first five years of establishing the business and then will start selling franchises from the sixth year.

b. Where do you intend to expand to and why?

Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. plans to expand to Boise – Idaho, San Francisco – California, Chicago – Illinois, Washington, D.C., Boston – Massachusetts, Miami – Florida, Seattle – Washington, Dallas – Texas, and Montpelier, Vermont.

We intend to expand to these locations because statistics show that the cities listed above have the most thriving trucking market in the United States.

Of the states that have witnessed the largest net gains in new residents, Idaho ranks near the top at 84.3 percent net gain, followed by Montana at 82.3 percent and Vermont at 64.29 percent. The states with the busiest interstate routes include California to Texas, New York to Florida, and California to Washington.

The founder of Benny Blanco© Trucking Company, Inc. plans to exit the business via family succession. We have placed structures and processes in place that will help us achieve our plan of successfully transferring the business from one family member to another and from one generation to another.

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Moscow Moving

Quality. Efficiency. Support.

Phone: 208-273-5500

A Clearwater Company Division

Moscow Moving is known for quality services, exceptional efficiency and the highest level of professionalism. No matter what service you’re looking for, we guarantee to not only meet, but exceed your expectations and ensure your full satisfaction.

Our team is up for every job, small or large, managing projects with the skill and experience our clients have come to expect. Please get in touch to learn more about our team, our company or for details about the services we provide.

Professional Services

What We Provide

Material & Furnishing Packing

Expert Service

We have the experience and skills necessary to tackle just about every type of job that comes our way. With Moscow Moving, clients know exactly what to expect - professionalism, efficiency and exceptional results.

Material & Equipment Transport

Always Prepared

Moscow Moving is committed to getting the job done. You can count on us to be professional, timely, efficient and make sure you’re satisfied every step of the way.

College Dorms, Apartments & Homes

It's No Problem

People are always on the move and they have stuff to take care of. Let us save you time so you can get on to more important matters..

Flatbed Transport

Get It Moved

Do you have hay bales, a vehicle, a tractor, recreational equipment, a big tent or just large odd stuff? We'll handle it for you.

Trailer Towing

Costs Less, Economical

Don't call a tow service, call us. It's going to be a lot less expensive and we'll do the range economically - local or long distance.

Commercial / Industrial Moving

We Move Critical Machinery

Do you have a business that needs to be moved? How about heavy, technical equipment that needs special handling?  Call us.

Get in Touch

Questions, comments or requests? Feel free to reach out, we’d love to hear from you. We are open 8 am - 10 pm every day.  For billing inquiries e-mail [email protected]

Moscow, Idaho

Fax: 208-273-5500

Thanks for submitting!

Idaho Headquarters

Clearwater Company | Meridian, Idaho

3597 East Monarch Sky Lane, Suite F-240

Washington Headquarters

Clearwater Company | Kirkland, Washington

11335 NE 122nd, Suite 105

Refund Policy

Re-schedules accepted anytime.  Cancellations accepted no less than 48 hours before the appointment.  There is a two to four-hour minimum charge for no shows.  Cancellations are charged at 50% of the total invoice amount for the move notwithstadning any Service Agreement that is in place.  Canceled job reviews have a minimum cancellation charge of 50% of the invoice amount.

We're Hiring

Join our team .

We're always looking for good people.  Are you professional, responsible, friendly, trustworthy, neat, committed and reliable? Movers/General Labor positions open.  Will Train.

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January 10, 2019, the complete moscow startup city guide, by: anastasia borisova, published on: march 21, 2017.

Russia's capital Moscow is, despite stereotypes, a city developing its entrepreneurial identity. Find out what this city has to offer & what it takes to make it as a startup founder:

Moscow is a charming city that carries the image of several epochs of Russian history and surprises with the number of cultural events taking place during one single day. However, the recent years have made Moscow even more attractive as innovative projects have become the center of business attention and the ecosystem for startups began to grow.

Why Choose Moscow To Found Your Startup?

Being the capital, Moscow always had intensified business life. Now, it is even more saturated as young projects got new opportunities to develop. Let’s see how it happens and where to find support if you are one of those dreamers.

Advantages Of Building A Startup In Moscow:

• Moscow is the economic center of Russia: forums and meetings take place here, people from different regions and companies can be found.
• The Russian capital is proud of the saturation of its international connections – from a growing tourist flow to foreign companies departments.
• It is a modern megacity with proper infrastructure (for instance, free WiFi is available in the streets and on public transport) and a large population (more than 12 million in 2016).
• Moscow is an educational center. There are a lot of young people with a strong background and passion for changing the world. Sometimes they are ready to wfork for experience only. What’s more, the universities of Moscow create business incubators and offer special business courses.
• The determination to develop highly innovative industries in Russia is shared by the government and businesses.
• In general, prospective (or cool) business ideas are the matter of great public interest. Business is the major topic for a lot of media outlets.

What Founders Have To Consider:

• Networking events are mostly in Russian. It doesn’t mean members of the community don’t speak English (most likely, they do), but the majority of services is in Russian.
• The attitude towards new projects is rather cautious, though it is really changing now. But still, they often choose a less risky project as a partner (“They don’t believe in startups in Russia!”, entrepreneurs often say).
• Many founders only rely on their own resources, connections, and skills instead of using special services for new projects.

Though there is a strong belief that founding a startup in Moscow would be very challenging, this perception is changing now. Capital owners learn to work with new small projects, founders learn to communicate with each other and to use available opportunities more efficiently. What is more, there will be no lack of innovations in Moscow as the availability of scientific centers makes the city very potent in constantly providing business with new technologies and ideas for products.

Dive Into Moscow’s Startup Community

Moscow startup community is represented by young scientists and entrepreneurs on the one side and professional businessmen, coaches, consultants, and experts on the other side. The life of the community is rather rich, it is hardly possible to attend all the meetings and events, but they are really worth visiting. Try the following pages to find them.

Find Info About Upcoming Events, Meetups & Other Occasions:

• Moscow State University Business Incubator has a very useful news page. Follow them on Facebook or on Vkontakte (which is a Russian social network) to find local events and competitions.
• Rusbase Media has an online calendar with events of innovations industry taking place across Russia.
• The state web-portal ‘ Moscow Small Business ’ collects information about upcoming lectures, conferences, and workshops in one calendar.
• Digital October has an interesting event-list as the place holds educational courses and events for innovative projects. They sometimes have series of weekend educational events devoted to a field of development (e.g. Blockchain Weekend , BioTech Weekend )
• DI Telegraph is a space for educational and business forums, conferences and lectures.

Media Outlets For Startups:

• Vc.ru media (created on basis of popular Russian media about IT ‘Zuckerberg will call’) publishes startup news in a separated section, covering interesting (or successful) ideas for projects and business events.
• Firrma is a media outlet for technological and venture business. There you’ll find announcements of upcoming events and opinions or comments from leading people of different industries.
• Inc.Russia has special sections for business ideas (‘To invent’) and successful startup stories (‘To take up’).
• Spark is an online platform for small business communication and exchanging experience. This is where one can find advice or even partners.

Major Events, Festivals Or Conferences:

• Open Innovations Startup Tour is organized every year to find promising projects in different cities of Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States. Participants attend workshops, make appointments with mentors and investors and compete for receiving an invitation to Startup Village.
• Startup Village is an international yearly technological conference for investors, startups, and innovators taking place in Skolkovo . In 2017 the event is planning to attract more than 20,000 participants with 4,000 startups and 1,500 investors.
• Open Innovations Forum takes place every autumn and is aimed at promoting technological development, enhancing collaboration in innovative business and exchanging experience.
• Russian Internet Forum and the Conference of the Internet and Business is the major event in the sphere of digital communications in Russia. It is traditionally held as a three-day activity taking place in a holiday residence near Moscow where participants share their views on the development of the Russian digital industry and the Russian Internet.
• Startup Cup Russia is a part of the global Startup Cup Competition. Projects participate to get feedback from mentors, consulting assistance and financial support.
• The Startup Of The Year Award from RosBusinesConsulting (RBC) is given to the best projects chosen by both, open public vote and experts’ opinion.
• The Higher School of Economics holds its’ own Startup Of The Year Award ceremony. They elect best companies in 4 categories: FinTech, hardware, socially important project and global project.

Volunteering Possibilities:

• Mosvolunteer is an organization connecting managers for meetings, conferences, etc., and those willing to participate in preparation and holding of the events. Mosvolunteer sometimes needs volunteers for business events (Startup Village in 2015 was held with their help ).
• Check the official pages of the events if you want to attend, they often seek volunteers and publish all the information for possible participation.

Volunteering is quite a common type of collaboration in Moscow so never hesitate and offer your help to event managers or startup founders (even if they don’t look for volunteers, try writing them a letter). People of the sphere will appreciate your determination and interest in their activity.

Choose One Of Moscow’s Coworking Spaces

As renting an office can turn out to be expensive for small companies (frankly speaking, Moscow is an expensive city not for small companies only), coworking spaces are very popular with startup founders. Residents appreciate the variety of services, round-the-clock access, pleasant atmosphere and the community of creative people that can be found in coworking spaces.

• #tceh is not simply coworking – it is a place for business courses and useful contacts as well. Founders sometimes meet their investors there or use it as ‘feedback’ facility to discuss their projects with experts. What is more, #tceh enjoys the collaboration with Fund for Internet Initiatives Development .
• StartHub is a coworking center located in one of the creative centers of Moscow – ‘Flacon’ design-factory. The venue is very popular with artists, designers, and filmmakers because of its’ unusual atmosphere of a former factory. ‘Flacon’ is a symbol of creativity and new approaches towards a common process. A swimming pool, a canteen, and a fitness center are located close to StartHub.
• Coworking 2.0 was created for both freelancers and young projects. Depending on each resident’s needs, this place offers different sets of services (for instance, a resident can rent a working space for 24/7 access during a whole month or make several reservations for the meeting room only) which allows to be economical and not to pay for unneeded facilities.
• Work Station has several venues in Moscow. The most famous of them is located at Gorky Park and in summer they open terrace for residents. Another center of Work Station, the biggest of all, is located on the Dmitrovskaya metro station and has a capsular hotel and free breakfasts.
• Arma Coworking holds business meetings and lectures. Residents can choose to rent a mini-office or simply use the coworking space. Arma is proud of the atmosphere of the place created by the local architecture, residents, and staff.
• DI Telegraph Coworking is located in the very center of Moscow on Tverskaya Street and has many successful VC, media, IT, and educational projects among its residents.

Get Investment In Moscow

Moscow enjoys the role of the financial center so many companies and private investors do business here. Besides, government and commercial organizations are interested in innovative projects and create special supporting programs. There are many possibilities to get investment at any stage of the project development.

Incubators:

• The Higher School of Economics Business Incubator provides two types of programs for startups. Residential program HSE{pro} offers working space and assistance from tax advisory to PR-support. It has been the starting point for successful Russian startups (for instance, TimePad ). The educational program HSE{goods} was designed for those planning to open a social business project. It can help even if the idea of the project is not yet clearly articulated. The fees for incubator services can be delayed in case the resident is a HSE employee or student. HSE itself is known for reinforcing the collaboration between the scientific community, business and government.
• The Plekhanov Russian University of Economics Incubator supports business teams at early stages or helps realize elaborated ideas in IT, new materials, gadgets, smart house systems and robotics. University students and graduates should represent at least 50% of the team to enter the incubator.
• Strogino TechnoPark is the venue for innovative projects at any stage. It has coworking, pre-incubator and incubator programs and a prototyping center. Companies at the stage of expansion or growth can become residents of TechnoPark to construct laboratories or production. The major advantage of being a member of Strogino TechnoPark is gaining access to governmental support as the center is working in strong partnership with Business departments of Moscow authorities .
• Branch Agricultural Business Incubator in Timiryazev Russian State Agrarian University provides agrarian innovative projects with laboratories, science research equipment and coworking spaces. It also attracts investment and expertise. By the end of 2016, there were many interesting projects among the residents of the center, for instance, an online shop delivering weekly sets of local farm products by subscription .
• MGIMO (Moscow State Institute of International Relations) created completely free incubator for students and graduates. The program has already helped several companies to successfully enter the local market; one of them is Octa Smart Food, the products of which are now sold online and in several stores in Moscow.

Accelerators:

• SKOLKOVO Startup Academy is an educational facility for founders at any stage. There will be lectures, meetings with business coaches and opportunities to find investment. Entering the community of Skolkovo can be very beneficial as funds, laboratories, consulting services, educational centers and many other business facilities are located there.
• Future Fintech offers an acceleration program for startups in financial and blockchain technologies, information security, payment instruments, banking and insurance services. They are looking for projects introducing software, marketing, technical or analytical products. Future Fintech attracts practicing specialists in the field to collaborate with residents’ projects and helps to find financial support.
• Internet Initiatives Development Fund offers an accelerator program for IT-companies that already have created a product and started sales. Each team will come through individually focused consulting services working full-day in the accelerator space. After the program is done, the best companies will have an opportunity to participate in a Demoday and present their products before potential investors and partners. Participants can choose to pay for the program or to give a share in their company as payment.
• GenerationS is an accelerator program containing several stages from online pre-accelerator to final competition of all participating projects. The results of the pitch session at the competition define the best companies, which then share Grand Prix fund (the fund is said to constitute 15 million rubles or about 242.000 EUR). GenerationS welcomes participants from many fields of innovations: smart city, creative industries, life science, finance and banking technologies, etc.
• Disruptive has been created by MetaBeta founder and ex-CEO, Dmitry Maslennikov after MetaData founders decided to work separately in 2016. The new program is considered to be more than an accelerator. Though Disruptive doesn’t provide investment, it offers startups help with finding the needed specialists, a marketing strategy or anything the project misses. The company also hires people willing to bring powerful startups to life.
• Territory is accelerating program in the sphere of production which gives access to an ecosystem consisting of an accelerator, a design center and an investment company. The goal of Territory’s activity is to help implement manufacturing innovative ideas in prototypes and small-scale production, with an eye to further large-scale production and sales.

Grants & Subventions:

• Innovation Assistance Fund provides investment for research and implementation of innovations. Their Umnik program offers the opportunity to get grants (up to 500.000 RUB or about 8000 EUR) for young scientists developing ideas for projects in IT, medicine of the future, materials, apparatus and bio. The Start program supports startups at early stages. New innovative companies can obtain up to 5 million rubles (80.000 EUR). The supporting plan consists of two parts and two years: during the first year, a team completes research in their field and then, during the second step, the project can receive part of needed investment from the Innovation Assistant Fund (in case the team manages to find some other sources as well).
• The Skolkovo Fund Granting Program offers many investment opportunities. The preferred fields of projects are energy preservation and efficiency, nuclear technology, space technology and telecommunication, biomedical technology, strategic computer technology and software.
• The Moscow State Department of Science, Industrial Policy, and Entrepreneurship has created a lot of possibilities for small business development by providing subventions. Besides, there is a chance of getting a low-interest loan from the Venture Investment Development Fund for startups that already get finance help from a private investor. The amount of the loan can be up to two times the amount of the received private investment.
• Innovative Entrepreneurship Support Fund of the Higher School of Economics holds yearly competitions for startup projects. There can be up to five winners and each can get up to 700.000 rubles (about 11.000 EUR) to implement their ideas or be given consulting assistance from invited experts.

Crowd Investing Platforms:

• Planeta.ru , by its’ own estimation, has helped to collect more than 589 million rubles (or more than 9.500.000 EUR) by March 2017 (the project started in June 2012). It is one of the earliest and most successful crowd funding platforms in Russia. The project now also provides PR, promotion and education services. Planeta.ru withholds from 10% to 15% of the successfully collected sum (except for charity projects when the fee is not taken).
• BoomStarter is the crowd funding platform which helps to attract investment for new projects. According to BoomStarter’s rules, the goal of the money collection should be clearly defined and fit one of the 15 set categories created by the platform founders. The fee for the use of the service constitutes 5% of collected sum and is only charged if the needed sum was gained. Apart from the fee, payment systems would withdraw another 5% of the sum and the tax would be collected.

Angel Investors:

• The National Business Angels Association unites Russian regional angels’ communities connecting startups with investors and helping to develop the venture investment industry in Russia.
• The Private Capital National Business Angel Network helps to find finance and to organize the presentation of the projects for potential investors withholding 5% of the successfully invested sum.

Venture Capital Investors:

• Internet Initiatives Development Fund selects best companies completing its accelerating program and provides an opportunity to get up to 25 million rubles (400.000 EUR) for project development.
• Altair Fund invests in projects at early stages in mobile and IT spheres.
• Moscow Seed Fund – a co-investment fund of Moscow, is providing additional finance for technology innovation projects in case they obtain support from other investors.
• Starta Capital was founded in 2011 in Moscow and now also has a department and an accelerating program in New York. The company provides investment for technological projects.
• The Untitled Ventures collaborate with cloud technology startups with an already elaborated product. The company has also created The Untitled club of private investors for co-financing projects.
• Bright Capital is a venture capital company with the main focus on CleanTech, BioTech, IT, and telecom projects. Bright Capital supports projects from all over the world and invests at any stage of a company’s development.
• Addventure Fund is the former holder of Delivery Club – a successful Russian startup project that introduced a platform for food delivery.

Other Investment Opportunities:

• The Russian Venture Company does not invest itself but unites many venture investment providers from different spheres. A special form will help projects to find a fund among investors of RVC depending on the project’s field, goals and needs.
• RusNano works as a co-investor, financing in high-tech production chains or technologies at early stages. The projects applying for support should be nanotech-related and Russia based.
• StartTrack is a platform that helps investors in finding startups and helps projects in finding investment. The platform was created with the support of Internet Initiatives Development Fund . Using StartTrack is beneficial for both investors and startups as each new member of the platform is carefully checked. Entering projects should provide business development indicators and update them each month.
• Pipeline is an online service of Rusbase that allows entering a network and finding an investor from the partners of Rusbase. The company also organizes meetings with investors in Speed Dating format which lets investors get to know several projects during one evening and gives startups a chance to be presented to many potential investors.
• ToWave is one more online platform for investors and startups with many successful venture funds on the list of investors.
• Start2Up is an advertising service bringing together those who need investment and those who look for a project or look for partners to start a new business. There are a lot of advertisements from different regions of Russia.

As one of Moscow startup founders said, “Despite the wide-spread prejudice, a project with a good idea would be able to find investment in Moscow”.

Seek Further Advice In Moscow

• MSU Science Park provides assistance and consulting at any stage and lends spaces for technology innovations companies.
• The Innovative Navigator around Moscow can help to find an incubator or learn about the support a new project can get from authorities.
• Moscow Small Business web-portal can be useful for checking tax regime, possibilities for getting subventions and working spaces in Moscow. Moreover, the organization provides advisory for entrepreneurs concerning starting and running a business in the city.

So be brave and join the community of people breaking stereotypes. Moscow is a city that challenges you to make the world better and, as you see, the chance of improving the world is real!

_______________________

The guides are like startup communities – they constantly change and grow. Make sure to check for updates and if you have something to add to one of them or want to publish one for your city, get in touch right away ! And don’t forget to enrich the startup ecosystem by creating your company profile at StartUs!

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