This guide provides the fundamentals for operating a successful owner-driver transport business.The guide provides much information for owner-drivers before they go into business. Much focus is given to knowing your customers, knowing the risks and considering all options and all calculations needed. The guide is divided into the following sections:
- Being an owner-driver. Have you got what it takes to be an owner-driver?
- Contractors and contracts. Contractors, the contract and tendering.
- Choosing a truck. Identifying the important features, deciding on new or used trucks and considering finance.
- Financing your business. The financial resources needed and financing options.
- Getting started. Business plans, business structures, insurance, computers and professional assistance.
- Keep your papers (and your figures) in order. Why keep good business records, what records should be kept, filing systems, basic book-keeping, and cash flow planning and cash flow management.
- Mind your ‘financial’ business. Calculating vehicle and administrative expenses, owner-drivers cost calculator and understanding financial statements.
- Staying in business. Customer service, reducing running costs, replacing your truck and employing another driver.
- Useful forms. Includes owner-driver checklist, personal budget worksheet, start-up costs worksheet, cash flow forecast and cost of operations worksheet.
The guide was produced by the Western Australia Department of Transport, and is titled “Running a Trucking Business in Western Australia: A guide for owner-drivers”, January 2012. Source: www.transport.wa.gov.au/mediaFiles/freight_owner_driver_complete.pdf