30 Truck Business Ideas To Start In [2024]
Are you Interested in truck business ideas?
According to recent statistics, approximately 70 percent of all U.S. freight is shipped by trucks. As a result, trucks, and especially trucking companies, are always in demand.
There are plenty of trucking business ideas you may consider starting.
We put together a list of the best trucking business ideas you can start in 2024
Here they are:
1. Start a game truck business
The game truck business offers game lovers the full experience that they wouldn't enjoy playing games on their laptops or usual play stations. Typically, the game trucks are modified so they have enough space for gamers, and provide a full range of gaming gear, so gamers can enjoy various video games and even virtual reality games.
With the gaming community expanding quickly, starting a mobile game truck can be a highly profitable venture. You can take the game truck to events or streets famous among gamers.
2. Start a mobile truck advertising business
Mobile truck advertising gets brands noticed, recognized, and remembered. The alternatives here can include using the truck for roadshows/mobile advertising campaigns and mounting mobile billboards/truck side advertising.
The business idea allows truck owners to diversify their income sources. Therefore, you can use your truck for hauling and at the same time rent the truck side to an advertising company.
3. Start a truck rental business
A truck rental business provides individuals, businesses, and companies with large trucks to haul cargo to specific destinations.
Businesses constantly look for the best ways to reduce operating expenses. One preferred method is hiring trucks instead of buying. This is often the case when the need for a truck is rare such as when moving an office or transporting machinery to a new plant.
You may invest in a box truck and work with a motor vehicle leasing company, or if you have huge capital, buy a fleet of trucks and start a full truck rental company. Market your business to startups and other small-scale businesses that likely need trucking services but do not consider buying an economical way of doing business.
4. Start an ice cream truck business
Do you have childhood memories of a neighborhood ice cream truck that reminded you anytime is a good time for ice cream?
An ice cream truck is one of the truck business ideas with great potential. So long as you choose high-traffic streets and a business strategy, an ice cream truck business could be profitable.
Starting an ice cream truck makes you your boss and helps you reach your financial goals. To start the ice cream business, research the nearby ice cream businesses and identify some potential gaps, prepare a business plan, customize your ice cream truck and launch your business.
5. Start a mobile locker truck
A locker truck business offers solutions for people who need temporary places to keep their belongings safe.
Individuals rent the lockers for short-term storage, and can even request items to be dropped at their address the following day, at an extra cost.
Generally, locker truck businesses are common at event venues.
How much you can make: $34,000 — $100,000/month
The Mobile Locker Co is an onsite storage solution for events, which has grown from two to five vehicles in five regions, and experienced year over year revenue doubling for the past two fiscal years while utilizing an e-commerce strategy for selling locker rental sales.
6. Start a trucking jobs platform
France, Germany, Denmark, and Norway are among the long list of countries that experienced a truck driver shortage. Consequently, companies have been experiencing delays in their own shipments, and the supply chains are affected severely. Besides, consumer demand is increasing rapidly, causing upward pressure on the trucking companies.
Starting your trucking jobs portal not only helps solve the problem, but it's also an opportunity to profit. To get started, create a website, and social media presence, and advertise your services. Ensure truck drivers who apply through your portal have all the genuine requirements and verify the advertised posts.
You make money by charging either the trucking companies looking for drivers through your portal or a commission from the drivers who land a job through the portal.
7. Start a food truck
Food trucks are a highly profitable business that offers customers a variety of meal options out of a mobile truck. This basically operates inside a large vehicle equipped with kitchen and food products. Starting a food truck is a dream for many people, but it's more challenging than it looks. To make it work, you need the ideal location and menu.
To start a food truck business in a particular city, it is mandatory to check what kind of food trucks are already operating, identify a gap, and bring in some new experiences. Then, with the right plan and the right approach, you can be on your way to starting your own food truck empire.
How much you can make: $30,000 — $1,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Food Fleet grew over 160% in just one year and managed over 20 million in sales for its clients, securing multiple contracts with the likes of Sodexo, Levy Restaurants and more, due to its understanding of catering client needs and its advanced turnkey and design services.
8. Buy a towing truck
A tow truck is fitted with winches and hoist mechanisms for freeing and pulling stuck, broken, or damaged vehicles. The tow truck businesses make money by charging customers for tows. If you have a passion for the automobile industry and are considering the best truck business ideas, then starting a towing business would be ideal.
To secure repeat customers, serve vehicle owners well, and work with garage owners and insurance companies.
9. Start an airport catering truck business
The global airport catering truck market will expand at a CAGR of 5.7% in the next few years. As air travel continues to gain high momentum, starting an aircraft catering truck business can be a great business opportunity.
Airport catering trucks comprise a scissor lift elevation system for raising the container to the aircraft level. The trucks provide various services in aircraft such as cleaning, loading, and unloading cargo.
10. Start a truck body building business
There are approximately 30 million small business enterprises in the US alone. Each business runs in a different way and has different needs when it comes to transportation. For instance, some require their products transported in a refrigerated truck body, while others require a customized one.
Therefore, a truck body building business can be a booming business opportunity, for those passionate about the automobile industry.
Starting a truck body business may feel overwhelming and capital intensive. However, with the right mindset and marketing approach, it is a huge opportunity, and you can make money out of it.
To get started, conduct market research and partner with trucking companies so you understand their needs. Secure capital, and market your business.
11. Become a truck driver
The American Trucking Association estimates the truck driver shortage at approximately 80K drivers.
The report indicates that if the current trend continues, the tracking industry could need more than 200,000 drivers by 2030.
If you have a passion for long-distance driving, working as a truck driver can be a great business opportunity. Truck driver requirements include: be at least 18 years to drive in-state lines and 21 years old to drive interstate and have a driver's license. Other requirements will include:
- Clean driving record
- Proof of state residency
- Proof of insurance
- Pass periodic drug tests and background check
12. Start a Long Haul Trucking Business
Long haul trucking is one of the sectors contributing significantly to economic growth. Besides, with the modern marketplaces, consumers depend on long-haul truckers to bridge the gap between them and favorite suppliers across the globe.
Thus, if you have a passion for starting a business that focuses on trucking, a long-haul trucking business would fulfill your dream.
Before investing in a long-haul truck, study the market and identify the business opportunities that will be most pleasing to you. Then, buy or lease a suitable long-haul truck and focus on doing what it takes to keep your business profitable while satisfying your customers.
13. Start a junk pickup business
A junk removal service involves picking up and removing unwanted items that owners cannot throw in the regular trash cans. Residents and businesses need junk removal services to haul away broken furniture, electronics, or appliances.
To make money, offer a unique junk removal service so customers can trust and remember your services. Calculate your fixed and variable costs to ensure you are charging the customers a fair price and making reasonable profits.
How much you can make: $15,000 — $100,000/month
How long does it take to build: 100 days (?)
Two mechanical engineering graduates start an eco-friendly junk removal and demolition business in Fredericton that generated nearly $8,500 within its first month of operation, and are on track to make a minimum of $20,000 a month with plans to have local teams in every major community in New Brunswick within a year.
14. Start a transportation service
Transportation businesses offer ridesharing services, haul consumer goods, or ship supplies and products from one location to another. They target individual passengers, other companies, or global business partners.
If you are starting a transportation service, decide who and what you will serve, set up the business structure, register the business, and apply for the required business licenses or permits. To ensure a profitable business, incorporate proper hiring procedures and keep up with maintenance and recertifications.
How much you can make: $6,000 — $1,080,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Deepfinity, a proptech/logistics company, has developed an internal parcel tracking software tool that's helping large buildings cope with the influx of online shopping, and has been growing 20% MoM since making its first revenue 1.5 years ago, currently making $6K/Month.
15. Start an animal transportation business
Animal transportation is the commercial ferrying of wild and domestic animals. The animal transporters help rescuers, game parks, and pet lovers by offering safe and convenient animal transfers.
Thus, if you own a truck, you can customize it to offer animal transportation services. The truck should be customized as per the size of animals you will be transferring in them and there should be a facility to lift animals into the vehicle and out of it.
Starting an animal transportation business is a profitable prospect. You require some licensing, and you ought to carve a niche and market your services to potential customers.
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
16. Start a moving company
Moving companies help people move their belongings from one location to another. The services can involve packing and shipping household items to physically moving them from one place to another. The moving can include anything from local moves to long-distance relocations.
Moving companies typically charge by the hour or job, so you’ll need to price your services accordingly. You’ll also need to invest in moving equipment, such as trucks and dollies.
How much you can make: $60,000 — $2,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
A 23-year-old founder started a moving company that now averages $115,000 a month in revenue and has record monthly sales of $158,000 by prioritizing customer service and using simple, common sense practices like friendly movers and a transparent pricing structure.
17. Start a freight forwarding business
Businesses find it difficult to track their goods while in transit. This is because of the heavy documentation and tedious processes involved in freight forwarding. Thus, they rely on a freight forwarding company to ensure successful delivery. A freight forwarding business uses its network of trusted freight services to bridge the gap between businesses and shipping companies.
If you intend to start a freight forwarding business, study your competition and identify gaps. Estimate the cost of starting a freight forwarding business, and research what it takes to run a successful business.
How much you can make: $1,080,000/month
How long does it take to build: 240 days (?)
DocShipper is a digital freight forwarding and sourcing company that offers a one-stop-shop solution for companies and e-commerce business owners throughout the supply chain, which saw over 700% growth in 2021 with a turnover of $4.9 million.
18. Start a scrap metal hauling business
If you do not mind getting dirty and are passionate about helping keep the environment green, consider starting the scrap metal hauling business.
Hauling scrap metals and recycling or selling them to metal fabricators might be a profitable business. To start, you need a truck and a trailer, and a space where you can store and sort out the scrap metals.
Starting a metal hauling business lets you choose your working hours and be your own boss.
How much you can make: $600/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
DownHomeModern's Marc Staples turned his creativity into a successful business through handcrafting windbells and chimes with a rustic style that pays homage to American Southwest decor.
19. Start a petroleum products haulage business
Petroleum products haulage businesses focus on guaranteeing a continuous supply of these products. Petroleum products can be transported via rail, trucks, tanker vessels, and pipeline networks.
Transportation of petroleum products is a lucrative business venture. To meet the demand for oil and other petroleum products, haulage companies must invest significantly.
20. Start a dump truck business
Dump trucks are always needed to haul materials to construction sites and dispel waste from mines. The boom in the construction industry sets an increasing demand for dump truck services. If you are starting a dump truck business, your target market is likely developers, contractors, and construction firms. You can connect with customers through industry forums and business sites.
21. Start a logistics business
Logistics businesses focus on transportation and storage/warehousing, which are critical components of the supply chain. Without elaborate logistics, businesses will deliver goods to their customers efficiently and reliably.
A logistics business connects manufacturers and consumers through transportation and safe storage of products. Logistics may be a good place to start if you are interested in a supply chain-related business but not sure which one. You can work as a driver, connect manufacturers to storage warehouses and transportation companies, etc.
How much you can make: $5,800 — $2,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Nationwide Auto Transportation ships approximately 4,000 vehicles per month and has served more than 50,000 customers, offering custom services such as help for clients who cannot find suitable carriers for their vehicle.
22. Start a salon truck
A salon truck is a stationery truck used by hairdressers. Salon trucks are often used for events, such as weddings and other celebrations, where guests look for a more personal touch. There will likely be an increase in the number of salon trucks in the future. This is because they offer an innovative way to get your hair done without going to a traditional salon. Salon trucks are often used for events such as weddings and other celebrations.
23. Start a mobile mechanic service
Mobile mechanic services are a great business to start in any area that needs quick repairs and service. You can do this part-time or full-time. You can work for a shop or run your own business. This setup allows you to work independently, setting your hours and choosing what areas you want to go to.
Automotive Repair & Maintenance Service Market is estimated to reach $810B by 2026. Starting your mobile mechanic service may seem crazy, but it might just be the thing you are looking for. If you dream about running your own business and having the opportunity to do something you love, then a mobile mechanic business is the right thing to do.
How much you can make: $4,000/month
Retro Radio Farm founder, Allen Chiang, earns $50k per year as a side business restoring old radios and offering Bluetooth MP3 upgrades, with the business growing 20% every year.
24. Become a building materials transporter
Construction of industries and commercial and residential properties continue increasing at a furious rate. Consequently, the demand for construction materials is massive and there is no sign of slowing down on the horizon.
The trucking industry is responsible for hauling a huge percentage of overland freight served to the construction industry. Therefore, if you are looking for a potential opportunity within the trucking industry, consider the haulage of construction materials.
To start, research the market and identify which areas have more opportunities. Then, buy or lease a suitable truck for the specific items you prefer to transport. Networking with construction site managers, foremen, and engineers will help you get more repeat business opportunities.
25. Start a grocery transportation business
Grocery transportation is a booming business today and it's not just due to the increase in the number of people who work from home. The fact is, as more and more people move into urban areas, grocery stores are popping up in every neighborhood.
The grocery transportation business is a very popular industry. Competition is stiff as Walmart, Amazon and other big-box retailers have been driving smaller retailers out of the market. Due to the competitive market, grocery transportation businesses have many ways of competing with one another. You should be aware of what the competition offers and employ all that you can to get ahead of them.
How much you can make: $200,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
HalalWorldDepot is a Halal online marketplace that started three years ago as a meat and grocery delivery service and has now expanded to offer a wide variety of Halal products, with a customer return rate of 50-60%, profitability at 16-25%, and over 10,000 customers, with plans to expand to Canada and the United Kingdom within three to five years.
26. Start a boat transportation business
Global recreational boating marketing is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 5%. Given the projected growth, and boat hauling service is another profitable opportunity for trucking companies.
Boat transportation service targets boat owners within the tourism and fishing industries. If you want a promising trucking business idea, hauling boats for money is a great opportunity.
How much you can make: $20,000/month
Nationwide Auto Transportation ships approximately 4,000 vehicles per month and has served more than 50,000 customers, offering custom services such as help for clients who cannot find suitable carriers for their vehicle.
27. Start a furniture delivery and assembling business
A furniture delivery business is a low-barrier to entry business opportunity for a handyperson with tools and a truck. You can manage the business easily from your home office or online, keeping operating expenses minimal.
As the home construction business experience a boom, demand for new furniture is also increasing. New home buyers purchase furniture online and look for a handy person to help with the delivery and assembly.
To start a furniture delivery and assembly business, partner with furniture manufacturers and become their local agent. For every order, they send, request to be the delivery and assembly partner.
28. Start a large items delivery business
With the rise of e-commerce, more businesses have to deal with delivery logistics.
A large items delivery business is a company that delivers large items such as furniture and appliances to customers’ homes or offices. These items are often too bulky for people to carry on their cars or delivery vans, so they need help from professionals who can get them from point A to point B in one piece.
Starting a large items delivery business in 2024 can be a great business opportunity.
29. Start a foreclosure cleanout business
Foreclosed homes need a lot of preparation before an open house. Realtors and banks will hire foreclosure cleanout companies to haul away old furniture, garbage, and other stuff from the foreclosed property.
In times of economic uncertainty, when many people are likely to default, one of the lucrative business opportunities you can start is a foreclosure cleaning business. A foreclosure business offers various services, including hauling furniture, rubbish, and debris and cleaning the home’s interior and yard. If you have a truck, you can start a foreclosure hauling business.
30. Start a mail delivery business
Groceries, gifts, and medical supplies are delivered to millions of homes daily.
If you own a truck, starting a door-to-door delivery business allows you to get into entrepreneurship and set your schedule.
As the boss, you will have to make some tough decisions, such as whether or not to hire more drivers.
With the right truck and a winning personality, a door-to-door delivery service can be profitable and lead to financial freedom.
How much you can make: $6,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
Deepfinity, a proptech/logistics company, has developed an internal parcel tracking software tool that's helping large buildings cope with the influx of online shopping, and has been growing 20% MoM since making its first revenue 1.5 years ago, currently making $6K/Month.
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
