Lately, there’s been a greater need for businesses to provide delivery services. During the pandemic, food delivery services were on the rise. Even the demand for hair cuts at home rose, showing that businesses that provided services to people without leaving their homes were more likely to survive the pandemic. Sure, these are all necessary services. But why are door-to-door auto repair services so rare? They’re just as important, arguably even more so.
Imagine someone too busy at work to even remember that they need to get their car serviced. Isn’t a door-to-door auto service just the thing they need? You’ve got this stellar idea, and now all you have to do is take steps to get there. Here’s what you’ll need to consider:
1. Business Papers
First of all, to establish your business, you’ll need to get a business permit or whatever is its equivalent in the state you’re in. This will usually be when your business idea starts to become an entity, and you’ll have a name in mind for it. Make sure that your business has a name that automatically tells people of the service you offer. This will make it easier for people to look you up.
Second, secure what you’ll need for your business’ taxes. Applying for an EIN is a quick process that you can actually do online. You can work on your books yourself or if you can afford it, hire someone part-time to do them for you.
2. Equipment
Investing in tools that can make this business work is going to be expensive. But it’s sure to give you a return on your investment, considering how mechanics make an annual salary of over $55,000. Aside from a truck, you’ll need tools that can easily be transported to keep your business on the road and so that you’ll be in and out of the customer’s home as soon as you’re done. This way you’ll be able to visit more customers in a day.
The biggest investment you can make is learning about the tools made for a business just like yours. For example, did you know that there are lifts that you can transport with you? Mobile column lifts for automobiles bring the lifts to cars instead of the other way around. Equipment such as these can better help you accommodate a flexible repair and maintenance space, just like the kind you have in your business.
3. Getting the Word Out
You’re going to need to advertise this brand-new business. It won’t be difficult to create a buzz around a service that everyone needs. People have cars, businesses have trucks, and you can be the certified mechanic that travels to wherever they need you, whenever they need you. Try to involve yourself on social media if you’re not already on there.
For instance, you can target posts on Facebook to people in your area. That way, anyone scrolling will see your post and become aware of the service you provide. Social media will also be a better way to establish a line of direct communication between you and your customer. Aside from bookings, it will be a platform where they can share their reviews of your business. People prefer something that’s been tried and tested. Once you have a solid positive review, you’ll start to gain credibility and new customers.
Beyond social media, you can still try to get an ad in the local paper or give out flyers with your calling card. Print’s not dead, especially to people who try to avoid the stress that social media provides. Make a readable flyer and a business card with clear typography, and you’ll be a clear candidate for a call when they need your help.
Starting a mobile auto service business can be challenging. If you’re already a licensed mechanic, you have an idea of how lucrative the business can be. You also know the benefits of being a boss and having control over your work hours. Visiting your customer can also help make sure that you provide a more personalized and efficient service. They can watch you work, and you can tell them how often they need to call you to get their car maintained and serviced.
Remember, before you start advertising your repair business, get all your permits and equipment ready. That way, when you get your first call, you’ll be ready for the job without worrying about how legal your current source of income is or whether you’ve packed everything you need in your truck.
