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WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THE BUSINESS?
A golden rule to the potential success of any business is become knowledgeable in what you plan to endeavor. You must educate yourself in every aspect of the business so that you limit the dreadful “I should have” syndrome. You know - I should have put a bigger motor in my truck; I should have apportioned for Texas; I should have known the maximum axle weight allowed is 20,000 lbs. - You get the picture.
How do you find out about all the things you need to know? Ask the people who are already doing it, not just those who are successful, but those that are struggling as well, so that you get wind of the good, the bad, and the ugly. Fortunately, there is an abundance of media out there that can provide you with important information on the trucking industry. Here are just a few examples:
*Trucking Magazines
*Truck Shows
*Videos
*Motor Carrier Manual
*Truck Schools (Many provide training for straight trucks)
*Various Trucking Associations
If you are starting your business in Ohio, the Ohio Department of Development provides many resources relating to:
*State Licensing Requirements
*Tax Applications
*Small Business Development
*Business Structure Guidelines
Through the Ohio One Step Business Permit Center you can receive a startup business business kit which is specific to the type of business you are interested in and it includes necessary forms and applications. It also provides you with information on how to contact other agencies such as the Department of Taxation, Bureau Workers Compensation, and other related agencies.
You can call your Secretary of State office to find out if your state has a business permit center and what other assistance they have for small business owners. When seeking the advice of your accountant or attorney, the more you educate yourself the better you will understand the information they present to you.
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