Starting a wheelchair transportation business can be a great way to provide a needed service while also earning a profit.
Here are the eight steps you can take to start building your own wheelchair transportation business.
Eight Steps to Launching a New Wheelchair Transportation Business
1. Name Your Wheelchair Transportation Business
Give your wheelchair transportation business an identity so people will think of it as a well-known and respected brand. You can take the name of your wheelchair transportation business from your industry, focus on a geographical location, or use your name, among other options.
The main goal of naming your wheelchair transportation business is to make it sound appealing and trustworthy so that customers will want to use your services.
2. Choose a Legal Form for Your Business
By incorporating your wheelchair transportation business, you will limit your liability. You can incorporate as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a C Corporation (C-Corp), or an S Corporation (S-Corp). Or you can operate as a sole proprietorship.
The business structure you choose for your wheelchair transportation business will determine the amount of taxes you pay and which state or federal tax forms you need to file.
Read our article comparing the most common wheelchair transportation business structures.
3. Write a Wheelchair Transportation Business Plan
All wheelchair transportation business owners should develop a business plan.
A business plan is a document that outlines the goals, strategies, and operations of a business. It can be used to secure funding from investors or lenders, as well as to guide the day-to-day operations of the business. The business plan should include information on the company’s products or services, market analysis, financial projections, and management team, among other things.
When developing your wheelchair transportation business plan and strategy, you should think about the following questions your customers might have:
- What services do you offer?
- How much do your services cost?
- What areas do you service?
- What are your hours of operation?
- What makes your wheelchair transportation business unique?
Read our article about how to write a wheelchair transportation business plan.
4. Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses
There may be required licenses and permits you need to obtain before launching your wheelchair transportation business.
For example, you may need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) if you plan on driving a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. You will also need to register your business with your state and local government.
You must also register your wheelchair transportation business as a legal entity with the state where you plan to do business. You can simply file an online form through your Secretary of State website.
Registering with the federal government is also essential so you can properly pay taxes for your business. You will also need an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which you can apply for at the IRS website, if you plan to hire employees.
Read our article about obtaining the proper wheelchair transportation business licenses.
5. Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed
In developing your wheelchair transportation business plan, you will figure out how much funding you need to start and grow your business.
If you have funds to invest in your wheelchair transportation business, you may consider taking advantage of that. In addition to your funds, other forms of potential funding for your wheelchair transportation business include traditional bank loans, SBA loans, credit cards, angel investors, and family and friends.
Read our article about how to fund your wheelchair transportation business.
6. Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently
When you start your wheelchair transportation business, it’s essential to have the right technology in place to maximize efficiency. You need a computer with Internet access, and accounting software for tracking expenses and revenues.
You may also want to invest in software specifically for the wheelchair transportation industry. This type of software can help you with route planning and dispatching, as well as billing and invoicing customers.
Don’t forget about the little things like a phone system, printer, and office supplies.
Read our article about the technology and software you need to run a wheelchair transportation business.
7. Market Your Wheelchair Transportation Business to Potential Clients
Before you start selling your services, you have to let the world know you exist. The first step is to create a website so people can learn more about your services and how they benefit them.
After you launch your website, start promoting it through social media channels like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Also consider networking with other people in the wheelchair transportation industry through social media and blogs so they can help share your business.
You also need to start gathering the materials needed to execute on your promotions strategy, which is your strategy for attracting new customers. Wheelchair transportation businesses should consider the following promotional strategies for which you should start getting prepared:
- Develop a strong online presence with a well-made website and active social media profiles.
- Reach out to industry bloggers, social media groups, and other professionals for networking opportunities.
- Make promotional materials (e.g. brochures, business cards, website banner ads) that highlight the benefits of using your wheelchair transportation services.
- Develop targeted marketing campaigns specifically for the types of customers you want to attract.
- Get involved in community events and sponsor local organizations that serve the disabled community.
- Hold open houses or informational sessions to let potential customers know more about your business and what sets you apart from the competition.
- Make sure your pricing is competitive, and offer discounts or promotions to attract new customers.
- Offer free consultations to potential clients so they can get to know you and your business.
- Ask satisfied customers for testimonials or case studies that you can use in your marketing materials.
Read our article about how to market your wheelchair transportation business for more tips.
8. Get New Clients & Grow Your Business
When you promote your services, you’ll start to get interest from potential clients.
Make sure you’re ready to serve these clients. Also, be sure to establish systems to ensure consistency and reduce costs. And be sure to find and train the right people to help you grow your wheelchair transportation business.
Read our article about how to effectively grow your wheelchair transportation business to learn more.
Starting a Wheelchair Transportation Business FAQs
Why Start a Wheelchair Transportation Business?
There are many reasons to start a wheelchair transportation business. First, it’s a growing industry with a lot of growth potential. There is an aging population who will need more assistance getting around, and there are also more people with disabilities thanks to advances in medical care.
Another reason to start a wheelchair transportation business is that it can be an enriching experience. You’ll be helping people who need it, and you can take a lot of pride in knowing that you’re making a difference in people’s lives.
What is Needed to Start a Successful Wheelchair Transportation Business?
To start a successful wheelchair transportation business, you’ll need a few things. First, you’ll need a vehicle that is wheelchair accessible. You can either purchase or lease a vehicle or convert a regular vehicle into an accessible one.
You’ll also need the proper insurance for your business. This will protect you in case of any accidents or injuries while you’re transporting clients.
Pick up the appropriate licenses and permits for your business. Check with your local government to find out what is required in your area.
Finally, you’ll need to develop a strong marketing strategy to promote your business and attract new clients.
What are Some Tips for Starting a Wheelchair Transportation Business?
Here are a few tips to help you get started with your wheelchair transportation business:
- Do your research. Starting any business can be challenging, so it’s important to do your homework and understand the industry before diving in.
- Have a plan. Write a business plan that covers all aspects of your business, from your marketing strategy to your financial projections.
- Find the right vehicle. Make sure you have a wheelchair-accessible vehicle that is comfortable and safe for your clients.
- Get insured. Proper insurance is essential for any business, but it’s especially important for a transportation business. This will protect you in case of any accidents or injuries.
- Promote your business. Use a combination of online and offline marketing tactics to promote your business and attract new clients.
- Offer excellent service. Provide exceptional service to your clients so they’ll continue to use your services and recommend you to others.
Where Can I Find a Simple Checklist for Starting a Wheelchair Transportation Business?
A simple checklist to use when starting a wheelchair transportation business is as follows:
- Name Your Wheelchair Transportation Business: This should be done with care, as your brand is important for attracting the right customers. A simple, memorable name will go a long way.
- Choose a Legal Form for Your Business: Whether you choose to become a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation or another option will depend on your business. Ensure that you are aware of all the implications of each type.
- Write a Wheelchair Transportation Business Plan: Your business plan will also help you determine your start-up costs and will provide a roadmap with which you can launch and grow.
- Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses: In most locations you will be required to apply for a business license and/or permits before you can begin operations.
- Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed: You will need to know how much money you have to spend on all of your business-related expenses before opening any doors. If needed, apply for a small business loan or other funding options.
- Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently: You need to have the right tools in place to succeed. Implement software that will help you manage your time, contacts, and business operations in general.
- Market Your Wheelchair Transportation Business to Potential Clients: A solid marketing plan will be crucial to your success. It should focus on attracting the right customers so that you can provide them with the services they truly need.
- Get Clients & Grow Your Business: Once you have a solid marketing plan, it's time to actively pursue and secure those who could benefit the most from your services.
Summary
Starting a wheelchair transportation business can be a fruitful venture. Make sure to have a business plan in place, get the necessary permits and licenses, and market your business to potential clients. Offering excellent service will keep customers coming back for more!