Rumblings and various vendor chatter

I've been hearing that some people think my fees are too high and that it's not worth it.
Let me start by saying, that 'something' is worth what someone else is willing to pay for it. I've had several repeat customers that would strongly disagree about what finally being able to spend time with loved ones is worth to them. The truth is, in order to provide a route owner a near guarantee on the date(s) they'd like to book, I HAVE TO employ people. Everyone should know the costs of legally operating a business with employees in and of itself. Only, these employees will be driving on public streets and sometimes they'll have to be driving vehicles and or trailers owned by myself. Just like the route owners, I must carry various insurances'. While we all hope and pray we're never in an accident, we just never know. Okay, business taxes, employee taxes and benefits, blanket liability and other insurance coverages, and vehicle maintenance. I'm willing to start the arduous task of putting this business service together, but I will not take this bull by the horns for less than my stated fees. I had a customer tell me that paying $700 to run his route using his truck and trailer was too much. Based on what standard, I'm not exactly sure. Sure, maybe you can find some random guy that HAPPENS to be available for the day(s)you need? Does he have liability insurance? What about the company from which you get your products, how much will they charge if you are unable to work for whatever reason. I know it's on par with what I am charging. It makes your life a lot easier if you don't have your DM running your route. Route owners haven't had to budget for vacations because they're hasn't been a reliable service for their use. They're are a lot of people NOT in the DSD industry who don't get paid vacations. It's kinda unfair to think that the only service available to date for DSD drivers out there isn't worth 15-20% of your sales tickets. I dare any man out there to attempt what I'm determined to do for any less. A lot of you have not had any problems with the fees (thank you). While some will have to account for and budget the new expense of vacation time. In the end, time is what's remembered though, not money. Now go live

Stay tuned for future business musings, and look for me in your warehouses in the near future

Mike