Box Truck Business FAQs
What is a box truck and why start a box truck business?
Answer: A box truck is a vehicle with a cuboid storage area attached to the chassis, designed for smaller deliveries. Starting a box truck business has a lower barrier to entry compared to semi-trucks, and it can be a lucrative side hustle or full-time job.
What are the steps to start a box truck business?
Answer: 1. Start your business on paper by choosing a legal structure, registering your business, filing for an Employer Identification Number (EIN), and signing up with the FMCSA.
2. Set up a business checking account and get a business credit card to manage finances.
3. Acquire your box truck, insurance, and necessary equipment. You can rent, lease, or buy a box truck.
4. Find work by using load boards (such as DAT or Landstar), Amazon Relay, or ELDs with spot freight features.
5. Focus on securing freight and growing your business. Learn how to book loads with our guide.
What paperwork is needed to start a box truck business?
Answer: You’ll need to register your business, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN), sign up with the FMCSA (if working across state lines), establish a driver qualification file, and get insurance.
Should I rent, lease, or buy a box truck for my business?
Answer: Renting is good for occasional work, leasing requires a deposit but is more cost-effective over time, and buying requires financing but allows for more control and potential equity. Consider your capital, needs, and long-term plans when deciding.
What are some tools and resources for a box truck business?
Answer: Consider using a commercial truck rental service (e.g., Penske, Ryder, or Enterprise), load boards (e.g., DAT or Landstar) to find work, and programs like Carrier TMS or the DAT load board for streamlining operations.
What training do I need for a box truck business?
Answer: You’ll need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) if the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is above 26,000 pounds. You can obtain a CDL through private truck driving schools or by working for a carrier.
How do I find customers for my box truck business?
Answer: Market your services online, use your website and social media, engage in person with potential customers, and pursue contracts with larger delivery companies. Focus on providing excellent customer service to generate referrals and grow your customer base.
How long is the course
Answer: The course is self-paced. There are no required study hours and course requirements. We do offer Quizzes and Certification but this is not mandated by the FMCSA.
Can I work from home?
Answer: Yes! In fact, when starting your business it is recommended that you start from a home office to keep your expenses low while you grow and expand your business.
What do I need to get started?
Answer: The following are the basic office tools required for starting a freight brokerage:
Set Up Basic Office Equipment and Communication Tools:
Acquire a computer, phone, and reliable internet access.
Subscribe to Load Boards:
Access online platforms to connect with shippers and carriers.
Maintain Record-Keeping Systems:
Implement a system to keep records of transactions and communications as required by law.
You need a background in transportation or logistics to start a Box Truck Business?
Answer: While a background in transportation or logistics can be helpful, it’s not a prerequisite for success. Many successful brokers come from diverse professional backgrounds and learn the industry through training and experience.
How do I find and establish relationships with reliable carriers?
Answer: Building a network of reliable carriers is crucial. Brokers often rely on load boards, referrals, industry events, and online communities to connect with reputable carriers.
Can I start a Box truck business part-time while keeping my current job?
Answer: Yes, you can start a Box truck business part-time and transition to full-time as your business grows. It allows you to test the waters and minimize financial risks.
Myths about Starting a Box Truck Business
Myth # 1: You need expert representation (such as a DOT practitioner, lawyer, accountant, etc.) to file for motor carrier and/or property broker authority.
Truth: The documents you need in order to file for motor carrier and/or property broker authority are readily available at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s website. Instructions on completing these forms are provided, and if additional help is required, you can contact the FMCSA directly.
Myth # 2: An expert can get your authority faster than if you file yourself.
Truth: No matter who files for your authority, you will be given a temporary MC number instantly. That MC number will become permanent and active after a 10 day waiting period and after you have met the bond and BOC-3 requirements. There is no special filing method that can make this sequence of events happen any faster.
Myth # 3: An instructor who is not actively engaged in brokering freight can provide you with practical and up-to-date knowledge about the industry.
False: There are a lot of industry standards and best practices that you can learn from broker schools. A school also can have more time to compile the most comprehensive and up to date information that a active broker may know but not have time to always have it added to their course.
Myth # 4: The ability to teach requires no formal training.
Truth: Teaching is a skill that requires formal training. It requires well developed skills in curriculum development, lesson preparation, lesson delivery, and appropriate evaluation.
