Like any business, a courier service encounters problems from time to time. Just relax and try to make a smart decision. Don't get too stressed out. You can fix any problem that comes your way. Here are five of the worst courier problems and the solutions that'll keep your business on track.
1. "My vehicle keeps breaking down."
The solution to this one is pretty easy-you need a reliable vehicle. It doesn't have to be a large van or a semi-truck. It just needs to be a vehicle that can be depended on to carry packages around town and get you there on time. You simply must have a reliable vehicle. Plus, don't forget that the IRS is currently allowing a deduction of 55 cents a mile for any driving done related to your business, which could help pay for a new, dependable vehicle.
2. "A customer asked me to transport fragile items."
You need to be ready to transport fragile items. Don't plan on putting the item in your lap or holding onto it with one hand while driving. You need to keep the item protected, but still be able to drive well with both hands and your attention on the road. Carry some moving blankets with you in the event you're asked to transport a fragile item.
3. "I don't have a lot of money to spend on advertising."
You don't have to spend a lot of money, or any money, on advertising if you don't want to. There are many free ways you can advertise. Try out Craigslist or Backpage.com. It's an easy and quick way to post an ad. And don't forget about networking, simply getting out there and talking up your business to prospective customers. Try making a web site or blog. There are many free and easy ways to do it. On your web site or blog, talk about your business, your prices and what you have to offer.
4. "I can't keep track of my schedule."
You need to be organized. An organized courier is a successful courier. As you start getting more and more jobs, you need to be sure to have your day planner or other scheduling method nearby at all times. Keep track of your jobs, and keep track of your customers. You never want to get a call wondering why you aren't where you need to be. You don't ever want to say, "Oops." Keep a detailed schedule, and this shouldn't be a problem.
5. "I'm lost!"
As a courier, you're going to be asked to pick up and drop off items at a variety of locations around town, many of which you've probably never been to. Maps can help, but are generally difficult and unsafe to use in traffic. You don't want to be sitting in your car, trying to figure out how to get to where you need to be. There's a product that can do that for you, a GPS unit. GPS units are becoming more and more affordable. They're simply a great and easy way to make sure you never get lost again.
Problems are bound to happen every now and then, but just stay calm and you can find a solution that works. These five are some of the worst courier problems you might encounter, but just follow the solutions, and you'll be fine.
To learn more, read How to Start a Courier Business, available at: http://profitsonwheels.com
Craig Wallin is the author of twelve books about home-based businesses, including How to Start a Courier Business,To learn more about starting a courier business, visit: http://profitsonwheels.com
Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Craig_Wallin
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