Running a start-up or other small business can be full of challenges, made even harder when you are relying on a limited team. That’s why outsourcing certain tasks and using other business partners is essential to help your company grow and thrive. When small businesses form a strong relationship with logistic companies then this can happen, whether you partner with another small and local logistics firm or a large one working on a global scale.
The Early Days
During the first stages of setting up a new business you will need to establish good relationships with a number of other companies These will include any suppliers and logistics firms, to help you reliably get materials, products and more to and from your workplace and out to customers. Meeting those first client and customer expectations is essential to build up a good reputation. Find a logistics partner that understands your size and budget constraints, as well as your ambitions and you may be able to strike a deal that benefits both parties.
Supporting Growth
Once your business starts to grow, you will need to seek out new opportunities and possibly different markets to expand into. Shipping and exporting as a small business for the first time will likely present further challenges, which is why already having a good relationship with a logistics partner that works overseas is useful. They should be able to support your growth, answer any questions you have and find the most appropriate methods for your new ventures.
Successful Case Studies
There are hundreds, if not thousands, of examples of logistics companies helping small businesses and forging strong relationships that have resulted in excellent outcomes. For example, logistics experts Tuffnells detail how they helped WA Products deliver their specialised, ultra-sensitive forensic kit to police forces across the UK. This is a niche field which required specialist delivery services to make sure nothing is damaged and arrives on time, which the client (WA Products) were happy with.
What to Look For
When seeking a logistics partner to work with and build up a strong relationship from the early days, there are a few things to look out for. These include:
- The cost of delivery
- Service and reliability
- Areas of expertise
- Length of contracts
- Delivery range
- Reputations and existing relationships
Depending on the type of business you run, certain factors will hold greater importance, but making sure you’re happy with each one can lead to a successful and fruitful relationship.
