A refuse collection business may not sound the most glamorous kind of business, but with the right service and market, you can make a lot of money out of it. Waste is generated daily by households and companies. Aside from the regular collection of their refuse, they may also need help with their junk removal on various occasions like when they move, build, do a renovation, etc. If you are planning to start a refuse collection business, here are some things to consider.
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Check with local authorities
There is a strict set of rules when it comes to the waste industry. Check with your local government to determine all the requirements that you need to submit and pass. If there are areas that are unfamiliar to you or you are having difficulty completing, ask a consultant that is a specialist in that area. It might be an added expense, but it will get your business started sooner, so you can begin earning.
Determine your market
Survey the area where you plan to provide your service. Do the people there require constant help with their refuse collection? If they do, then you can earn from that location. It will not be worth focusing your service on a specific area if there is no demand there.
Check out the competition
It’s also vital that you check the other refuse collectors offering their service in your target market. It will help you determine the current services that they provide and their rates. With this, you can find ways to top that service. For instance, you may offer a lower price, or you can provide extra service that they don’t, like, for example, property cleaning. If they need cleaning and waste disposal service, there is a better chance that they will hire you since you offer both.
Buy a second-hand truck
You will need a vehicle to collect refuse. There are a lot of used refuse vehicles for sale that are still as good as new. Buying a brand-new truck can be expensive. You will save more when you get a second-hand one. Make sure that you buy from a reputable company and that you check the truck carefully, as well as its maintenance record.
Purchase clothes and equipment
Aside from the truck, you will also need work clothes. Find something that is comfortable so you can move freely. Invest in safety gear and other work equipment like gloves, boots and a hard hat.
Insure your business
Shop around and compare insurance options. Find one that will cover any work-related injuries since they could happen anytime. Choose the insurance that also has coverage for your equipment and truck.
Once you have everything ready, it’s time to advertise and market your business. You may hand out flyers to people around your target location. An online presence is also essential since a lot of people search for services on the Internet. Take advantage of social media and advertisement sites to get the word out about your service.
