How to start a non-CDL car hauling business
How to start a non-CDL car hauling business Starting a non-CDL car hauling business can be a highly profitable venture if you plan carefully and maintain legal compliance. As compared to CDL operations, a non-CDL car hauling business allows you to transport cars without a special commercial license, provided that you maintain the weight limits. The guide below leads you through the process of successfully opening your non-CDL car-hauling business.
Step 1: Understand Non-CDL Weight Limitations
A non-CDL hauler cannot weigh over a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,000 lbs. That is the combined weight of your load, your trailer, and your truck. Proper equipment selection is the key to achieving that.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Equipment
Truck: A heavy-duty pickup truck such as Ford F-250/F-350, RAM 2500/3500, or Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500
Trailer: A 2 or 3-car trailer is most commonly used by non-CDL haulers. Gooseneck and bumper-pull trailers are the most common choices.
Step 3: Register the Business and Obtain Permits
Register Your Business: Choose a business entity such as a sole proprietorship, LLC, etc. and register it with your state.
Obtain an EIN: Register with the IRS for an employer identification number for tax purposes.
Get a DOT Number: Commercial vehicle transportation needs Department of Transportation (DOT) registration.
MC Number (Optional): If you travel across state lines, you will require a motor carrier number that is provided by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Step 4: Get Insurance Protection
Liability Insurance: Covers damage to other individuals’ vehicles and property.
Carriage of Goods by Sea: Covers the goods being carried.
Physical Damage Insurance: Covers your trailer and your truck.
Step 5: Build Partnerships and Find Customers
Partner with local dealerships: Approach local dealerships and offer your services.
Online Load Boards: Websites including Central Dispatch, Super Dispatch, and uShip help to find hauling jobs.
Networking: Connect with towing companies, private sellers, and auto auctions.
Step 6: Set Pricing and Draw Up Contracts
Competitive pricing: Research the competition and set fair but profitable prices.
Contracts and agreements: Utilize written contracts to protect your business from disagreements.
Step 7: Market Your Business
Website & Social Media: Build an online presence to attract customers.
Google My Business: Register your business for local search visibility.
Flyers & Business Cards: Market your services to automotive companies.
FAQS
1. Do you need a CDL for a car-hauling business?
No, as long as your truck and trailer GVWR is not over 26,000 lbs.
2. How much is it to start a non-CDL car-hauling business?
The initial investment is between $10,000 and $50,000, depending on the price of equipment, insurance, and registration.
3. Which is the most appropriate truck for non-CDL car hauling?
A Ford F-250, RAM 2500, or a Chevrolet Silverado 2500 heavy-duty pickup is most frequently used.
4. How do you find car-hauling jobs?
Good sources of loads include load boards like Central Dispatch, auto auctions, dealerships, and private sellers.
5. Are hauls of cars profitable?
Indeed, car hauling is a money-making venture with proper pricing, customers, and a steady stream of loads.
Conclusion
It requires planning, investment in the right equipment, and compliance with the law to open a non-CDL cargo business. If you do these steps and apply the right marketing strategies, you have the potential to build a prosperous and profitable hauling business.
