A drayage business plan, like any document for the shipping and logistics industry, needs to describe your venture's operations and projected performance by referencing “known quantities” in the industry. The best starting place, for a start-up in the drayage industry, is investigating the “competitive comparables” – the companies that look most like the one you would like to run. How much do they haul per month? What are their operating costs, how many employees do they have, and what are their sales/market shares, if known? Even having working estimates here is better than nothing, as these can inform your business plan's own financial model and give it a lot of credence with investors or VCs. Your business plan should show:
• The type of ship(s) you will operate, along with acquisition costs
• The routes you envision using
• The type of cargo you will transport
• The logistical considerations the company will face
• The number of employees required for the venture
The plan also needs to illustrate the prospective use of funds (what categories will receive the most of your start-up funding?) and the assumptions that underlie your sales forecast. The most needs a five-year pro forma for investors and should show the revenue forecast, personnel plan, projected break-even event, the profit and loss for each year, a running cash flow and balance sheet, and the first year post-funding in a monthly detail. A ratios table, proposition to investors, and a sensitivity analysis might also be required. Finally, a comprehensive market analysis and a quick bio on each key team member will round out the plan. Call MasterPlans if you need to outsource the business plan writing or the financial model. We have years of experience and have worked on many shipping and logistics projects. Toll-free: 877-453-2011
