How to get a hardware startup out into the world? The role of an accelerator mentor in the field of logistics – Luděk Drnec (DHL Express CZ)
When building a hardware startup, development, manufacturing and financing are addressed, but a key question is often forgotten: How do we get the product to customers? Logistics can make or break success. We discussed this issue with by Luděk Drnec, the CEO DHL Express Czech Republic and ours mentor in the programme PrusaLab Hardware Accelerator. How can it help startups? Watch the video and find out why it is a good idea to think about logistics right from the start of the project.
What do startups most frequently underestimate?
Luděk Drnec sees a recurring problem: start-up founders only think about logistics once too late. They have well-thought-out manufacturing and financing, but they lack a distribution strategy. „Oh, that'll sort itself out somehow...“ is, according to him, a common but dangerous approach.
1️⃣ Logistics is not just delivery – it starts right at the raw materials stage
It is not just about how to get the finished product to the end customer, but also where will the raw materials come from and how will they get into production. Drnec points out that many startups underestimate the reality of supply chains. Yet, if you are importing components from Asia, you have to deal with delivery times, customs duties, certification and transport routes.
2️⃣ Don't forget about the sales strategy
Start-ups often underestimate not only logistics, but sales itself. „Who you will sell it to, how you will sell it and how the customer will get hold of it, are questions that need to be asked right at the beginning.“ If you are targeting globally, you will need to deal with export, and therefore also customs regulations, tax aspects and distribution partners.
3️⃣ Are you packing properly? Maybe not.
Hardware startups often don't worry too much about the quality of packaging and the protection of their goods. Drnec warns: „The last thing you want is to approach your first customers and deliver a damaged product to a third of them.“DHL Express helps start-ups not only with transport, but also by recommending the right packaging solution.
4️⃣ Batteries – a frequent stumbling block
If your product contains lithium batteries, you should be careful. Transport regulations vary according to volume, packaging method, and destination. „In some cases, you may find that air transport is not possible at all and you have to look for alternative routes.“DHL Express offers consultancy in this area to help startups avoid unexpected complications.
5️⃣ Sustainability: A competitive advantage
Drnec highlights the growing emphasis on green transport. DHL Express is introducing synthetic aviation fuel (SAF), which significantly reduces the carbon footprint of transport. Start-ups looking to expand into Scandinavia, Japan or the USA should take sustainability seriously, as customers and investors are increasingly demanding it.
Final advice: Don't be afraid to outsource
„I understand that startup founders want to handle everything themselves, but some things are more efficient to outsource – for example, logistics or accounting.“says Drnec. His recommendation? Don't be afraid to approach professionals, it will save you both time and money.
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