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I would love to make the jump from one van with 2 people to 2 vans with 1-2 in each. Question for those with muliple vans running around. In looking back, what is the most important thing in your opinion to take into consideration when deciding on making this jump? Is it just workload, or are there others aspects to consider? I know I need to spend more time growing business rather than cleaning to make the jump. I want to make sure I examine all aspects before I do.
Dave,
I began operating with two new vans when I bought the exisiting franchise about three years ago. We could have easily started with only one and built up, but I decided to jump in. The obvious issues are around cost and a reliable employee. My brother runs the other van, so I am fine with him taking it home at night and I do not need to rent out a garage facility. I am not sure I would have the same comfort level with anyone else. Costs include van, equipment package (somewhat scaled back), supplies and insurance. We found that now, since we have some experience, we can do 99% of the jobs with one man. We do not move much heavy furniture (and carry sliders in each van). We simplified the schedule so that morning appointments almost always start at 9:00 AM and afternoon appointments are almost always 1:00 PM. I email the schedule to him each night with his jobs highlighted. Let me know if you have any other questions and GOOD LUCK! Matt
I feel that the daily sales in a 2 man van can be up to 85% of 2 vans with 1 man each. If I remember correctly, you operate with your brother, giving you two top quality techs. If you are running over 60 hrs per week with one van, I think it may be time to take that tax advantage and buy another. Up-selling becomes necessary w/ two per van when the load lightens. As owners, we will sell if time permits while 1 man van employees like mine look at it as paid time off. If you are doing plenty of commercial work, two vans w/ pt helpers makes short work out of those big jobs. Two vans can also save some travel time by geographic scheduling. As you can tell by my rambling, it’s getting late, time for bed!
Brian,
My brother used to do this with me, but naging health issues (back) and a need to move closer to his daughter took him out of the area and business. My operation is just myself and 1 FT employee running in 1 van. Employee has 10+ years experience and is a good worker, but also has health issues (bad back, bi-polar, many medications) that prevent me from feeling confident in dedicating a van to him full time. He has been with me for 5 yrs, so I do send him out periodically on jobs on his own with little concern. I have enough equipment to almost fully outfit another van.
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