When starting a business that delivers goods like food, beverage, grooming, or other services via truck, you will likely have many questions. One of the first questions you may ask is if the business should be mobile or at a brick-and-mortar location. There are pros and cons to both business models. Which works best for you will likely depend on several factors. We will talk below about why a mobile business is a solid idea. We will also discuss some resources, like Biz OP that are available as you begin looking to strike out on your as an entrepreneur.
Mobile Business Example – The Booming Food Truck Industry
The food truck industry started taking off about ten years ago. It is showing no signs of slowing down. If you are considering a mobile business, there are multiple benefits to that business model. We will use a food truck as just an example. They include:
- Lower cost of start-up – The average mobile business start-up cost is roughly half a brick-and-mortar.
- Location, location, location! – A mobile business can always go to the customers. They do not have to wait for the customers to come to them.
- Operating costs are lower – Typically, you are spending less on staff, taxes, and supplies.
- Free advertising – your truck is a driving billboard!
These benefits can translate to many other mobile business ideas such as dog grooming, floral trucks, among others. A mobile business can be a great way to get a business up and running. You can expand to multiple trucks or even open a brick-and-mortar location as you become more successful.
Are There Any Roadblocks Along the Way?
If the benefits above make a mobile business attractive to you, make sure to ask the following questions and be aware of the below as you create your business plan. They are:
- What permits and licenses do I need to sell my product?
- Will I need additional commercial space for storage, etc.?
- How much does it cost to maintain the vehicle?
- Do I have to build my company’s audience, or does it currently have one?
Resources for Mobile Business Entrepreneurs
People running mobile businesses are a spirited bunch of motivated individuals. They are out in their trucks no matter what the weather is that day. It does not matter if it is blazing heat, snowstorms, or pouring rain. They face different challenges than brick-and-mortar business owners. These challenges join them together as a group, and they are a very active social media network. If you decide to start a mobile business, look for groups, online forums, and other resources that cater to mobile business owners. A great resource is Biz OP. Biz OP is an online resource that helps with in-depth small business owners’ guides and start-up information for various mobile businesses. With an ever-expanding set of articles, they can be a great place to come back to again and again during your mobile business journey. Now get out there and get rolling!
