If you’re running a delivery business, you need to ensure you stay on the right side of the law. From getting the proper licensing to ensuring your drivers are insured, there are a lot of legal considerations to keep in mind. According to experts, most entrepreneurs are unaware of the full extent of the legalities involved in running a delivery business.
To help you, we’ve put together a list of legal tips for entrepreneurs running a delivery business.
Get the Proper Licensing
Depending on your business type, you may need to get local, state, and/or federal licensing. For example, if you’re running a restaurant delivery business, you’ll need to ensure your restaurant is adequately licensed. The same is true if you’re delivering alcohol or other regulated products. Do your research and ensure you have all the necessary licenses before starting your business.
You should also check with your local city or county government to see if there are any special regulations you need to be aware of. For example, some cities require businesses to have a business license or permit to operate. These requirements can vary from city to city, so it’s essential to check with your local government before starting your business.
Hire an Attorney
Hiring an attorney specializing in small businesses is one of the best things you can do for your delivery business. This will give you peace of mind knowing that someone has your back and is looking out for your best interests. Plus, if something goes wrong, you’ll have somebody on your side who knows how to handle it legally.
When hiring an attorney, ask about their experience with delivery businesses. You want to make sure they’re familiar with the laws and regulations that apply to your business. If they’re not, you may want to consider finding someone else who is.
Train Your Drivers Well
Your drivers are the face of your business, so it’s essential to ensure they’re trained properly. This includes teaching them how to safely and efficiently deliver your products. It also includes preparing them on how to deal with customers.
It would be best if you also had a written policy for your drivers about safe driving. They should follow all traffic laws and regulations. They should also never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. They could face serious penalties, including jail time if caught breaking the law. Work with an experienced DUI lawyer if you’re unsure what your state’s laws are on drunk driving.
Make Sure Your Drivers Are Insured
If you’re hiring drivers to deliver your product, you must ensure they’re adequately insured. This protects them in case of an accident and protects your business from being sued if one of your drivers causes an accident. Ensure your drivers are insured, and their insurance policy covers them while working for your company.
Some states require delivery businesses to have a commercial insurance policy. This is in addition to the driver’s personal insurance policies. Check with your state’s insurance commissioner to see if this is something you need to have. You can also consult an insurance agent to see what type of policy is right for your business.
Keep Detailed Records
It’s essential to keep detailed records of everything related to your business, including sales, expenses, employee information, customer information, etc. Not only will this help you stay organized, but it will also come in handy if you ever find yourself in a legal dispute. Ensure you have a system in place for keeping accurate records and that all your employees understand the importance of doing so.
Using software that helps you manage your finances and customers is an excellent way to keep track of your business. This can save you a lot of time and headaches down the road. Use accounting software like QuickBooks or FreshBooks to track your sales and expenses. Use a customer relationship management (CRM) tool like Salesforce or Zoho CRM to track your customers.
Be Careful with Contracts
When entering into contracts with customers, suppliers, or employees, have an attorney review the contract before you sign it. This will help you avoid any legal problems down the road.
In some cases, you may be able to use a template contract. However, it’s always best to have an attorney review it to ensure it meets your specific needs. Ask your attorney if they offer contract review services. They may be able to provide you with a template contract or review an agreement you’ve already created.
Running a delivery business comes with a lot of legal considerations. From getting the proper licensing to ensuring your drivers are insured, many things must be kept in mind. Following these tips can help ensure that your business stays on the right side of the law. Always consult with an attorney if you have any legal questions or concerns.
