How to start an errand business

If you’re looking to start your own retirement business and work from home, consider starting an errand running business. This type of business offers you the ability to help people, make personal connections with customers, and make a nice income. Here’s what you need to get started:

Customers

An errand running business has a number of potential customers. New mothers and mothers of young children are a fantastic audience. Additionally, the elderly or people that are home-bound can also benefit from your services. Finally, also consider targeting affluent customers who work twelve-hour days and don’t have time to complete many tasks.

Services

As a concierge or the owner of an errand running business, you have many options. You can offer a number of services or you can specialize. Some options include:

• Dry cleaning
• Grocery shopping
• Shopping
• Post office/shipping
• Banking
• Appointment making
• Buying tickets
• Walking/caring for pets or taking them to the vet

You can also specialize in a specific type of task or service like financial errands which would require a high degree of trust. Research your competition to choose what services you offer and how you price them. You can charge by the hour, by the errand or offer package or membership pricing.

Start-Up Equipment

The wonderful thing about an errand business is that the start-up costs are extremely low. If you already own a reliable vehicle, your costs may be less than £100. However, you’ll also need a telephone and email address. If your phone has email capability and texting and instant messaging options, that will help your customers stay in touch with you. You’ll also want a computer, a website, and the means to invoice your customers.

Marketing Your Business

Initially your marketing campaign will be local. You’ll want a website for customers to reference and you’ll want to be listed on local search engines like Google Places. You will also likely want classified advertisements in your local papers, Gumtree or Craigslist and the yellow pages.

Networking and word of mouth are perhaps your biggest sources of clients. Help your clients spread the word and consider offering a referral bonus. Flyer and brochures will help spread the word too.

An errand running business is a wonderful business if you’re personable and responsible. Additionally, it’ll help if you’re excited to start and grow a business focused on helping people. Research your competition, plan your business, and help meet the needs of your community. What are you waiting for?