How to start a logistics business in India
Do you need help finding courier contracts? Various vehicles and certified delivery drivers can provide the best business strategy. However, you need a consistent flow of courier service contracts for the profitable utilization of your capacity and resources.
Since there’s a lot of competition, you can’t wait for firms to come to you seeking delivery services. As a new business, you reach out to potential customers to offer your service. You can approach grocery stores, retailers, and other retailers that need delivery services.
Just pitching alone may not work In 2024. You will need a strong online presence, courier software for smooth operations, technical know-how, and courier services advertising strategy, among other crucial aspects. Let’s see various ways to get courier contracts and run a profitable business.
Courier contracts, also known as delivery contracts, are the agreements that define the scope, terms, and conditions of the service and are done between a courier company and an individual or business. The contract may be for a specified period or a one-time service. You can obtain them from supermarkets, restaurants, electronics shops, and other product vendors.
The contract highlights the nature of the work, payment, and other conditions. It ensures each party is aware of its expectations and obligations.
If you are new and want to win courier contracts for stable and consistent business, follow these basic step-by-step processes for your delivery business.
Don’t be someone who delivers everything; starting with an area of specialization is wise. It could be anything, like groceries, food, medical stuff, or any other product. By selecting your niche, you define the scope and nature of your operation that leads to a focused and effective marketing strategy.
To decide your niche, consider factors such as:
Some industries, like food and medical supplies, need courier partners with special certificates. You have to check with the local regulatory office. They will ensure that you have all the required documents and certificates.
Securing delivery contracts in your local area is easier than national ones as you will be facing big and established players. Play safe; start with local businesses first. They will help you understand the particular delivery requirements within the region.
Look for businesses that may not have a connection with another delivery service yet. Make a list of the companies you plan to contact for courier service contracts. Also, include details such as the names of people you want to meet and how you’ll reach them. Meet the decision-makers, such as a firm’s business owners, managers, VPs, or directors. Start contacting them to discuss the type of delivery service they need. Highlight how contracting your company is the most effective choice they can make.
If your company is difficult to locate online, you’ll miss business opportunities. This is because people mostly choose from the top search results. If we look at the statistics, 92% of users will go with a company that ranks on the first page of Google search results. Furthermore, 26% of users don’t trust a brand that doesn’t have a website. Please ensure your website is up and running. Also, optimize your business with proper SEO tactics. If your site is SEO optimized, it will help people who need your services find you.
The more you promote your courier services to your target audience, the better your chance of getting clients. A well-planned strategy involves various marketing strategies to ensure you reach maximum people. Like;
A website for couriers functions as a job site to recruit delivery drivers. Search them for courier contracts, look up job details, and then make bids on contracts. You find customers looking for courier or transportation service providers on these websites or marketplaces and provide your offer. Note that these types of marketplaces offer temporary or short-term contracts. Hence, you must actively present your business and continuously secure delivery contracts.
Quality service and customer satisfaction are among the top considerations when we talk about the aspects that decide the success and growth of a business. Without ensuring the best service, you won’t last long in business, no matter how many contracts you win.
Deliver the goods on time and in good condition and respond to customer concerns quickly. Further, reimburse for any damage or loss to property in case it happens. Use reliable software, like cTrunk, to automate your tasks and ease your operations.
Good customer service brings referrals and improves the odds of winning contract bids.
If you are running any B2B business, please attend industry-related events. Retailers visit trade shows to locate suppliers, and many restaurant owners are looking for ingredients or new dish ideas.
Please don’t restrict yourself. Attend more general trade shows or conferences. There, you can meet and interact with your possible customers. Don’t miss events that are especially related to transportation and logistics.
Industry associations connect people from an industry looking to grow their businesses. Here, you can meet companies with which you can collaborate. Attend seminars and events that provide opportunities to know and learn about the latest trends and technological developments. You never know if you may meet your potential clients there. Usually, such associations are open to anyone; however, some require you to pay a joining fee.
Collaborate with relevant businesses or independent contractors to increase your customer base. Retail stores, e-commerce companies, and logistics firms can be your best options.
Existing companies with established customer bases can help your business expand. They allow you to explore new markets and enjoy your partner’s customer base.
Many government agencies need reliable couriers to deliver crucial documents or packages. Here, we mean agencies such as municipal and federal departments. You can bid on these contracts through vendor registration. For vendor registration, create your profile on a central website of your region. It can help you win contracts from government vendors and local procuring portals.
You need to submit detailed information like your business, services, prices, certifications, and how you meet local regulations. Once approved, you can submit a proposal in response to Requests for Proposals (RFPs).
Many big companies release RFPs or Invitations To Tender (ITTs) for courier services. They release it via their purchasing departments or third-party tender sites. Some popular third-party tender sites are BidStats and FedBizOpps.
Register accounts on these platforms and create alerts for new and relevant tenders. You’ll get notified whenever a new and suitable tender is released.
Read specific trade publications and industry-specific magazines. Also, regularly check directories for businesses that announce future tenders. If you find a great opportunity, review the tender requirements, write your bid, and submit.
To secure courier contracts, you must think strategically and apply appropriate marketing tactics. It is vital to provide excellent customer service to survive and thrive in the market.
Use reliable software to deliver excellent service and respond to market needs. This will allow you to hold on to valuable courier service contracts that can help your business expand.
cTrunk can streamline various aspects of your business. It can help you book shipments, generate invoices, and track deliveries. Automating these tasks will reduce human error and make your operations run smoothly.
cTrunk also help you track financial metrics, analyze revenue trends, and manage multiple delivery branches from one central dashboard.
