When it comes to starting any business, there’s no sure-fire formula for success. A startup company always brings surprises, long days, sleepless nights and probably a few headaches along the way. But if you ask tree care contractors turned successful tree service owners, they’ll tell you it was all worth it.
While a foolproof equation for starting a company doesn’t necessarily exist, we did compile some advice that might help. So, whether you’re just starting to think about what it would be like to be your own boss or you’re already knee-deep in market research, take a minute to read these tips on how to start your own tree care service company.
There’s no such thing as overplanning
The early phases of starting a business are probably the most overwhelming, but there are resources available that can help you navigate the process. Your local America’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a great place to start, but keep in mind that people and businesses differ, and your unique circumstances should guide your decision-making.
SBDCs, which are located in every state, the District of Columbia and some territories, provide free business advice and affordable training. Additional resources include other organizations, your local chamber of commerce and local government officials, such as an economic development director.
A comprehensive business plan is a must for any emerging small business, but especially for commercial tree care service providers and similar companies in this extremely competitive industry. What’s more, a thorough business plan will likely be required if you are seeking to establish relationships with lenders.
Make sure to factor insurance and workers’ compensation into your business plan. Customers who hire your company for a job are trusting you to have the proper coverage that will protect your company, your employees and their property. Even small startups need insurance — it’s an upfront expense that is always worth the cost. Talk with your insurance agent about a plan that would be best for your company.
Equipment advice
If you’re starting a tree care company, you’re going to need some equipment that will work as hard as you do. We’ve often heard the question, “If I’m starting my own company, what equipment do I absolutely need?” Watch for our minimum equipment needs list later this month where we dive into that question.
Advice from those who know
The tree care industry is full of experienced, knowledgeable professionals who have encountered and overcome almost every challenge imaginable. If you’re thinking about starting a new company, these individuals are a wealth of information and tested guidance. If possible, seek insights from experienced tree care professionals in noncompeting markets to help identify unanticipated issues as well as recognize opportunities.
We did some of the legwork for you and asked contractors all across the country about how they got their start, the challenges they encounter on a daily basis and how they overcome obstacles in the Vermeer From Those Who Know series. Check out all the advice we’ve gathered so far here.
Pressed for time and want the short list? Here are some of our favorites:
- “It was tough to get started. At that time, the economy wasn’t doing well, so it was hard to get jobs. But giving up was never an option.” —Eric Zupko, owner of Treeway Tree Care
- “When a client hears ‘bid,’ the only thing they’re thinking about is a dollar sign. A person who wants a proposal will measure the dollar sign against the value of Kramer Tree.” —Todd Kramer, owner of Kramer Tree Specialists
- “My motto has been to build a company that I like to work at. I like doing tree work, so I built a company that lets me still go out in the field and do that.” —Dan Mayer, owner of Mayer Tree Service
- “With good equipment comes good employees, because the employees like to work with nice equipment. That does give us an advantage because of the amount of equipment we have. Other guys want to come to our company to be able to run them and operate them.” —Grant Hamilton, owner of Hamilton Tree Service
- “I don’t have days off, but that’s part of having your name on the trucks. If you invest in good people and good equipment, and are fair and honest with people, the business will take care of itself.” —Jim Gollnick, owner of Gollnick & Sons Tree Service
- “There are a lot more tree care companies out there today than there were 15 years ago. It hurts us a little, but the quality of work that we do has earned our company a good reputation. We get a lot of repeat business and referrals. We’re good at what we do, so we stay busy all year-round.” —Josh Brongo, owner of Brongo Tree Service
- “Don’t take shortcuts. Provide quality service, transparency and fair prices to your customers.” —Scott Griffiths, owner of Great Scott Tree Service
For more of our blogs on building your business, click here.
This article contains third-party observations, advice or experiences that do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Vermeer Corporation, its affiliates or its dealers. Advice or suggestions provided in this article are statements of general applicability that may or may not apply to individual businesses, whose circumstances and operations may vary.