How to start a transport company step by step and become a carrier?

The TSL sector is consistently regarded as one of the fastest-growing branches of Polish industry and currently accounts for as much as 10% of the country’s GDP. Poland is one of the leaders of the European road transport market, and Polish transport companies carry out a significant share of transport operations across the EU. It is therefore no surprise that more and more people are considering starting a business in the TSL sector. How to become a carrier and generate profits by providing transport services?

How to start a transport company step by step?

Start by creating a detailed plan. Setting up a transport company requires proper preparation. The first step is to determine the demand for transport services in a given market. It is worth taking a closer look not only at potential customers but also at competitors. The aim is to identify the features that will distinguish your company from other businesses with a similar profile.

To understand how to become a carrier, you should also determine in advance what type of transport you plan to provide. This affects not only the formal requirements that must be met to obtain the necessary authorisations, but also the costs involved. These should be analysed carefully in order to estimate the expected profitability of the business and plan how the initial funds will be allocated, for example to purchasing a vehicle or advertising.

How to start a haulage business? Purchasing a vehicle

Providing transport services is not possible without a suitable vehicle, such as a tractor unit with a semi-trailer. Purchasing one is therefore essential. If you do not have sufficient funds to cover this expense, it is worth considering a bank loan or leasing. Many carriers also use trailer rental services, including those offered by Express Heroes. This solution makes it possible to handle a wider range of transport orders. For example, renting a Frigo refrigerated trailer enables the transport of products that require a controlled temperature.

When looking for information on how to open a transport company, you should consider not only purchasing the right vehicle, but also making sure that it is properly equipped and meets all technical requirements.

How to open a transport company? Essential documents

Purchasing vehicles is not enough. You must also complete all the necessary formalities, such as registering the business with the Central Register and Information on Economic Activity. The application can be submitted online using the CEIDG-1 form or during a visit to the relevant office. You must then provide the appropriate PKD codes, for example 49.41.Z for road freight transport, choose the form of taxation and determine how the company’s accounting will be handled.

Learning how to set up a transport company step by step also involves obtaining a Certificate of Professional Competence. To achieve this, you must complete the relevant training and pass an examination. Another required document is a certificate of no criminal record. You also cannot become a carrier without a licence to carry out domestic and international transport of passengers or goods. Obtaining such a licence involves a fee, the amount of which depends on its scope and period of validity. It is also worth knowing that a licence can only be obtained if you can provide evidence of sufficient financial security to start the business.

How to set up a transport company step by step? Insurance and additional permits

What else should you remember when considering how to start a transport business? Because the TSL sector involves considerable risk, an essential part of operating in this industry is taking out road carrier liability insurance. This insurance protects the carrier against financial losses in the event of unforeseen incidents during transport. To make the process easier, it is worth using the additional services offered by Express Heroes with the support of trusted partners. Taking out carrier liability insurance, cargo insurance or vehicle insurance through a freight forwarding company can save a significant amount of time. It is also worth knowing that customers require carriers to provide proof of insurance before signing a contract.

To complete all the formalities involved in setting up a transport company, you should also remember about any additional permits required due to the nature of the transport orders you handle. These may apply, for example, to the transport of waste, ADR dangerous goods or waste paper.

Transport company – how to start finding transport orders?

Efficient operation of a transport company requires good organisation in areas such as route planning, monitoring working hours, cost accounting and managing transport documentation. Many carriers decide to cooperate with a freight forwarding company to make these tasks easier. For example, working with Express Heroes provides support from an experienced freight forwarder, access to advanced route-planning software and easy contact with an accountant.

However, the most important benefit of having a freight forwarding company as a business partner is avoiding difficulties with finding transport orders. Express Heroes provides carriers with a guaranteed minimum mileage of 11,000 km per month. This gives them financial stability and saves time because they do not have to find transport orders themselves or handle the related formalities.

Do you now know how to become a freight carrier and start a transport company? To achieve this goal, you need to prepare properly, familiarise yourself with the applicable regulations and obtain the necessary authorisations. Although there are many formal requirements associated with starting a business, carrying out transport orders through your own transport company can be highly satisfying and provide a stable source of income. Good luck!