Based on the theory of viscoelasticity,the mechanics of elastic board and the tribological principle,the theoretical analysis of mechanism of energy consumption of overcoming staring resistance for belt conveyor is carried out in this paper.The major factor causing energy losses after system stops is the viscoelasticity of belt,it also is an important factor to increase rolling friction caused by micro sliding and sticking effect when system starts.It is pointed out that the optimization of the starting procedure of belt conveyor can be achieved by choosing rational viscoelastic parameters of belt.