As the logistics sector pivots toward high-efficiency, sustainable solutions, starting a trucking business in Singapore presents strong opportunities. However, success in this evolving, sustainability-driven logistics industry requires a clear understanding of regulations, costs, and operations.

This guide outlines the key steps to follow when starting a trucking business in Singapore.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Segment and Operating Model

The first step in starting a trucking business is choosing the type of services you want to offer. The logistics industry in Singapore covers different segments, and this decision will determine your operations, costs, and vehicle requirements.

Each segment differs in revenue potential and operational setup. The most profitable type of EV truck depends on your business model.

• Last-mile delivery: Focuses on high-volume, urban transport. This is well-suited for dense city routes and frequent short trips. This segment thrives on light goods vehicles (LGVs) such as vans and small trucks.
• Port and container haulage: Involves specialized operations within PSA ports, also known as Inter-Terminal Trucking. This requires prime movers and container trucks designed for hauling shipping containers.
• Cold chain logistics: Handles temperature-controlled goods, such as food and pharmaceuticals. These operations require specialized refrigerated trucks and temperature control systems.

In addition to choosing your segment, you should also decide how you want to operate.

Operating Models:

• Owner-operator: You own and drive the vehicle yourself.
• Fleet management: You manage multiple vehicles and drivers.

Step 2: Register Your Business (ACRA)

Once your business model is defined, the next step is to formalize your business structure. This involves registering your trucking company with ACRA (Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority), the government body responsible for business registration in Singapore.

For most trucking operations, a Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) is the preferred structure, as it offers limited liability protection and tax incentives.

Here’s an overview of the registration process:

• Appoint at least one local director and a company secretary
• Register your business name through the BizFile+ portal
• Obtain your Unique Entity Number (UEN)
• Activate your Customs Account if your operations involve import/export or port-related haulage

Step 3: Secure Licenses and Permits

The trucking industry is heavily regulated to ensure road safety and environmental standards. Before your first haul, you must satisfy several Land Transport Authority (LTA) and industry-specific requirements:

• Business licenses: Apply for Freight Forwarding or Declaring Agent licenses via the GoBusiness Portal.
• Port permits (if operating in PSA ports):
  • PSA License
  • Portnet account
  • Commercial Vehicle Entry Permit (CVEP)
• Driver requirements: Ensure all drivers hold valid vocational licenses (Class 3, 4, or 5) and any required role-specific certifications.

Step 4: Choose and Invest in the Right Fleet

The best way to start a trucking business is to invest in the right fleet that aligns with your operations and long-term cost goals. With growing incentives in 2026, an electric goods vehicle (EGV) is becoming a practical choice for many businesses.

• Leasing vs purchasing: Leasing reduces upfront costs, while purchasing an electric goods vehicle offers long-term asset value and access to incentives such as the Commercial Vehicle Emissions Scheme (CVES) and EV Early Adoption Incentive (EEAI).
• Vehicle selection by use case: To support these decisions, Hong Seh Motors offers a range of electric commercial vehicles tailored to different business needs.
  • For last-mile delivery, light-duty vehicles like the SRM T3EV are well-suited to urban operations.
  • For heavier industrial use, models such as the Farizon H9E support higher load capacity and long-term operational demands.
• Compliance requirements: All commercial vehicles must pass mandatory annual VECOM inspections to remain road-legal.

Step 5: Set Up Operations and Infrastructure

To run your trucking business smoothly, you need the right systems and infrastructure in place from the start.

• Insurance coverage: Secure commercial motor insurance and Goods-in-Transit (GIT) coverage to protect against financial and operational risks.
• Parking and depot requirements: Ensure compliance with Vehicle Parking Certificate (VPC) regulations, including an approved parking space or depot for heavy vehicles.
• Technology and fleet management: Use GPS tracking and AI-powered telematics to optimize routes, monitor vehicle usage, and improve fleet efficiency. For electric fleets, these tools also support battery management and energy planning.

Step 6: Manage Costs and Scale Your Business

Scaling a trucking business requires expanding your fleet, increasing delivery capacity, and improving operational efficiency. Start by leveraging available government grants such as the HVZES ($40,000 grant) and other SME financing schemes.

You should also plan for ongoing expenses, including road tax, maintenance, and the impact of future carbon tax shifts.

To support long-term growth, building a stable client base is essential. Partnering with freight forwarders, logistics providers, and e-commerce platforms can help secure consistent contracts and predictable revenue as your business scales.

Future-Proof Your Trucking Business

Starting and building a successful trucking business requires strong regulatory compliance and the ability to adapt to evolving industry demands. As the sector shifts toward a net-zero future, early adopters of electric fleets will enjoy lower operating costs and a significant competitive edge in corporate tenders that prioritize green logistics.

If you are planning to launch or scale your operations, it is important to work with an experienced electric commercial vehicle provider to make informed decisions from the start.

Consult Hong Seh Motors to explore electric commercial vehicles tailored to your business needs, with end-to-end support to help you build a reliable, future-ready fleet.