Looking to start a business that doesn’t require a lot of training or skills? A queuing business might be just what you are looking for. Sometimes called a “queue-for-your business”, this service brings hardworking individuals who don’t have time to take care of certain personal tasks a solution.
A queuing business is a service-based business where customers pay the company to have someone stand in line and obtain documentation on their behalf. The client receives their documents, such as vehicle registration and marital certificates, without needing to waste precious time in long queues. Best of all, you also don’t need much starting capital for this type of operation.
Many entrepreneurs have already turned a profit on the frustration with municipal and government processes with this solution. But here’s how you can, too.
Market Research
Firstly, research the specific needs of your potential customers. Although you can create a business that also works for online queues, it might be best to first only offer this in-person service, as you are clear on the gap you can fill.
Next, define the list of services you can offer based on this research. Do people need specific services related to the traffic department? Are there struggles with the Department of Home Affairs?
Here are some services that you can include:
- Police clearance
- Marital certificates
- Birth certificates
- Vehicle registration
- Transfer of ownership
- License disc renewal
- Business registration
- Change of title holder
Remember, queuing in line means that you need to physically be there. Highlight that your service is limited to a specific area, whether it be a province, a town or a city. You cannot serve somebody in Cape Town when you’re actually based in Kimberly. So, see where this specific need is within your community or town.
Compliance and Business Particulars
After you have a clear picture of the services you would like to offer, take care of the compliance side of your business. You must find a name, register your business and open a bank account. For guidance on how to register your business, you can check out our article.
You will also need to ensure that you have a tax certificate that you will obtain while registering your business.
Take the time to also open up social media accounts as well as a website that you can direct potential clients to. You will use these platforms to promote your business, market your services and gain new clients.
You can also highlight to your customers that your services include filling in the forms for them, not just standing in a queue.
Pricing
Determine what you will charge for your services. Remember to include any fees that the various companies, such as the Department of Home Affairs, may charge for the documentation. This cost will have to be added above what you are charging for your services.
You’re welcome to list on your website what exactly the charges won’t tell. Does it include your fuel to the facility? Is there any other administration cost attached to this that is maybe not evident right away?
Market Differentiation
In a queuing business, it’s important to stand out when you are looking for clients. You can do this by offering clients something that other businesses can’t, such as excellent service, packaged or bundled deals, or even discounts on multiple bookings.
Using tools such as WhatsApp for Business or chatbots on Instagram, you can streamline the process through which people make contact with you and request your services.
Remember, whenever you market your services, you need to highlight what solution you are solving. Whether it’s helping a busy mom gain control over her life by saving her time from standing in a queue, or serving a career-driven individual who doesn’t have time during work hours to obtain their important documents, point this out to your potential customers.
Important Factors to Keep in Mind
If you start this kind of business, you need to be prepared for long hours in long queues. After all, that is what your business is all about. You may potentially also look into hiring additional staff so you can serve more customers simultaneously. Try to also group tasks together so you only have to travel once to help multiple clients.
