[Gas safety man]

So let us imagine that my new business proposition it set up and ready to launch! I have my name, built my website and negotiated with all my suppliers!

At this early stage I don’t have a commercial premise and certainly could not afford one until I see return on investment at least.

All I need to do now is make an order for the agreed rate and I’m in business right?

Well it might seem a bit odd to see a lorry unloading a pallet and pallet jack onto my front lawn in my quite residential backstreet! Is this really common practise for these big companies that supply to the very forefront in retail such as high street shops and other commercial outlets?

So…. How does an inspiring entrepreneur bridge this gap so to take his or her business to the market place? How do I bend the rule a bit to get to where I want to be?
What options are out there?

[Fr_Chuck]

You first of course have to see if you are allowed to operate a business from your home, esp one that will require large trucks to deliver

Next where are you going to loan palets into, a large shed or storage building.

Next not all trucks have lift gates so you will have to ( at least in the US) pay extra shipping costs to have them delivered where there is no dock.

[Gas safety man]

So say that all is in check, the local authorities allow my small business to operate from home and the physical aspect of receiving and storing the goods is in order too!

My main concern now is giving my home address when I make the order!
Will this look unprofessional and affect my chances of having a relationship with this company? Will they deliver twice?

Is it wise to do this and risk damaging and already unfulfilled reputation??

[Clough]

Hi, Gas safety man!

What specific type of business is this concerning, please? It would be helpful to know that.

Thanks!

[Fr_Chuck]

Most companies ship by frieght lines, so you merely tell them that lift gate service will be required for pallet shipments. How will they know this is your home? They don't drive over and see you ?
And to be honest if they are selling you things and you are paying them, they normally care less if you are homeless as long as your check to them cashes

[Gas safety man]

Suppliers of flat screen TV and specialised monitors to security, fittness and medical professions etc

[Fr_Chuck]

I would be more concerned about the image you have to the people you are selling these to more than the people you are buying them from.

Now perosnally I have used a third party warehouse or post unit myself, since I am not always home ( normally not at home) so that way someone is always there to receive packages that have to be signed for.

[Gas safety man]

Good point! It's the image you project to your customers that matters! Not what happens behind the scenes, that's irrelevant I suppose.

Third party warehouse? What you mean to sub out part of another businesses warehouse and use of address? Tell me more! Please do!