Moderator please post this on front page, so that I can get widest feedback.

Hello Nairalanders,
Hope you all are doing well. I am not new here, but just opening a new account to ask this question.

I am 25 yrs old male and living in the South East of Nigeria. Finished OND, and had been doing nothing.
My Uncle yesterday called me and asked me if I could go into a haulage business - something like buying a mini truck, like toyota dyna truck and using it for delivering goods to people, something like a small haulage business.

I spoke to one of my friends who drives Uber in Lagos - he told me it's a good idea; that I could buy a toyota dyna and then deliver goods to people. He also suggested that I could attach myself to a building materials market - after Customers buy their goods, I could charge them based on the quantity of goods and the delivery distance. He also said it will be better to get a direct tokumbo, mini truck not yet driven in Nigeria.
Maybe double tires at the back. That probably we could get it in Lagos. I hope I can get one in Lagos and then take it down to South East for Business.

My brothers and sisters - it's my uncle wanting to help me, so I have some questions:

(1) Where could one get a good toyota dyna truck in a good condition, not yet driven in Nigerian roads, in Lagos? It is not new but has to be in a good condition. Ideally double tires at the back.

(2) Someone suggested Ladipoja in Lagos. How can I get it at Ladipoja considering that I don't know anyone there?

(3) What is the price range of such a truck in Lagos - second hand in a good condition, not yet driven in Nigeria.

(4) I heard some use diesel, some use petrol. Which one is better?

(5) What are the steps one can use to ensure that one buys a truck in a very good condition? How do I select a mechanic that will inspect and certify the truck before payment?

(6) What should the mechanic be looking for? Only the Engine? How can I ensure tha the mechanic is telling me the truth?

(7) What paperwork should I process after payment before taking the truck to South East?

(cool I am a newbie, so I may not have asked all relevant questions. So any tips would be highly appreciated.

I hope someone can help you too. I hope my Uncle's promise will come to fruition.

Moderator please post this on front page, so that I can get widest feedback.

Kind regards.

Have you taken time to check on drivers at the building material market ogidi? How well are they doing and what attracts you to the job ? I know we often say "don't despise the little beginning " but the truth remains that some beginning determines the end.

The mini truck in question is not less than 3m, if he truly want to help u, the amount can get you a good business you survive with.

From my experience, finding a trustworthy mechanics & driver is the key. Get a mechanic from the state you want to use the truck. Before starting get an insurance, install a tracker even if you are to drive it yourself & get a GIT (goods in transit).

You will need a hackneys permit & consolidated loading permit for some state, this you can get at license office.

Diesel engine is more durable.

Good luck