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How to Start a Mobile Windshield Repair Service |
Sudden temperature changes, burglary, and other factors can cause a vehicle's windshield to break or crack. And when this happens, the vehicle owner has no alternative but to get it fixed. Of course, no one wants to be seen driving around in a vehicle with a broken windshield.
If you are a fast learner and have been looking to start a small business, repairing broken windshields can be a lucrative business opportunity, especially if you live in a locality where cars abound.
Starting a mobile windshield repair business requires no formal qualifications and minimal startup capital, so taking the plunge is quite easy. If you are looking to start your own windshield repair and replacement business, follow these guidelines.
Starting a Mobile Windshield Repair Service – Sample Business Plan Template
1. Plan the type and size of your business
You need to decide the type of business you want to start. Will you be rendering windshield repair services, outright replacement, or both? Your decision will hinge on your skills. But to get as much work as possible, you need to render both services.Since yours will be a mobile windshield repair business, you may not need to rent space to use as an office or workshop. So, you will be starting on this small model. However, as your business grows and you have a large customer base, you might want to consider having a large shop where customers can bring their vehicles.
2. Write a business plan
No business should be regarded as needing a business plan. Writing a business plan is one of the keys to the success of any business, and a windshield repair service is no exception.By writing a business plan for your windshield repair service, you will understand the market better, know how and where to direct your efforts for the best results, and know how to avoid common pitfalls. Aside from the fact that a business plan guides you on how to start your business successfully, it also helps you manage your business correctly and ultimately enables you to attain your business goals.
3. Apply for necessary licenses, permits, and other paperwork
Starting a business in virtually all parts of the world comes with several requirements, such as licensing and fees. These requirements vary from country to country. Suppose you don’t know what obtains in your locality. In that case, you should contact the appropriate relevant agency to determine the licenses and permits you will need to get before starting your windshield repair business.In addition, you should contact your local Internal Revenue Service for an employer identification number. You will use this number on business tax returns and other business documents. You also need to purchase business insurance to protect your equipment from damage or theft and business assets from lawsuits or settlement costs.
4. Purchase needed equipment and spare windshields
It goes without saying that you will need windshield repair equipment and supplies. You can order the equipment you need online or from local stores where they are sold. In addition, you need to find a place to order windshields of all sizes and shapes that can be shipped in quickly whenever required.To save money, you can contact salvage yards in your area to purchase intact windshields from vehicles involved in crashes, or that are no longer roadworthy.
5. Market your business
Since marketing your business is the only way to create awareness about it and attract customers, you must dedicate time, effort, and money to it.Advertise your windshield repair business on local radio stations and in print media, such as newspapers and magazines. Build trust by offering valuable information to potential customers. For example, most vehicle owners don’t know that their vehicle insurance policies often cover windshield repair costs. So you can educate the public on this and provide the full contact details of your business.
Contact local businesses with large fleets of vehicles and introduce your business to them. An excellent way to convert them is to give them a special deal. In addition, you may contact car owners in your locality and beyond and let them know you offer windshield repair services. Even if they don’t need your services, they will most likely introduce your business to those who do.
Online marketing is another proven strategy for attracting customers to your business. Start a blog that offers helpful tips to potential customers. Create social media accounts to reach and interact with potential clients. Participate actively in online forums for vehicle owners. And advertise or guest post on blogs often read by those who will most likely need your services.
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