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group will need a place to meet the truck and distribute
the group order into household orders. Have one
or two people agree to find and secure a good site
and give them a copy of this list.
Essential
features of a distribution site:
- The
site is easily accessible for a tractor-trailer
- A
paved road, passable year-round, level.
- Can
a tractor trailer easily get in and out of the
site from a numbered route.
- No
low hanging wires or underpasses that would
interfere with the truck.
- Our
trucks need at least a 13'6" overhead clearance.
- Plenty
of space for the truck to maneuver for unloading.
- Are
there any weight limits on the roads approaching
the site?
- Will
the area be free of parked cars during delivery
hours?
- Is
commercial delivery legal in this part of town?
- The
site availability should be flexible -- your
delivery day and time are subject to change.
Clean
work area for distributing the food.
- Plenty
of space for arranging members' orders
- Adequate
heat, light and ventilation.
- Washroom
facilities.
- Facilities
to store perishable and frozen items until members
pick up.
- Ample
parking for members.
- A
telephone: for contact regarding late deliveries,
baby-sitters, emergencies, etc.
Desirable
features of a distribution site:
- Free,
or available for a small fee or donation of
product.
- On
the ground floor, so food does not have to be
hauled up and down stairs.
- Is
centrally located for all members.
- A
safe and supervised room or corner for children
who will be present during distribution
How
much space do we need? Some guidelines.
- For
a buying club of: 10 to 20 members: a space
25' x 25' (625 square feet)
- 25
to 50 members: a space 45' x 25' (1125 square
feet)
- 50
to 150 members: a space 45' x 60' (2700 square
feet)
Insurance
Check with the owner of the site to see if your
group's activities are covered by their insurance.
If not, don't panic! Check with your local insurance
agent -- inexpensive coverage is available.
Some
possible sites:
- Community
centers, town halls, fire houses, or other civic
buildings
- Church
or organization halls
- Farm
Bureau or Extension offices
- Trucking
terminals
- Clubs
such as Lions, V.F.W., etc.
Tips
- It
is best to find a permanent distribution site
that is not dependent on one member.
- Have
a back-up location in mind in case the usual
site is not available at some point.
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