Have you ever wished there was a mobile oil change service that would come to you? Well, your wish has come true! You can now start your own mobile oil change business with a few simple tips. This is a great business to start because it has low overhead and you can be your own boss. Plus, you can offer a much-needed service to busy people who don’t have time to go to a traditional oil change service. Here are a few tips to get you started.
If you don’t mind doing some homework, you could start an auto repair shop without any startup costs.
Is Mobile Oil Change Business Profitable?
Mobile car care services are big business in the U.S., according to IBIS. Last year they were estimated at $7 billion USD.
If you’re passionate about automobiles and have some experience in the automotive field, you could open up an auto repair shop. The demand for car repairs is rising due to the increase in the number of cars on the road.
Here are the 8 Steps to Start Mobile Oil Change Service Business
These are the most important steps for starting and running a successful mobile car wash business.
1. Learn the Trade
It is important that you learn the mechanics of changing the engine’s own oils, which types of oils are best suited for different vehicles, and which ones aren’t.
You don’t necessarily have to have any certifications or previous experience to begin an oil change service business.
2. Create a Business Plan
Just like any other kind of enterprise, having a well-thought-out plan is important. It not only makes things easier for the company but also secures funding if need be.
The most important topics to address in your mobile app development business plan are these:
- Startup and recurring Costs
- Your target customers
- Pricing strategy
- Financial plan
- What are your plans for selling?
3. Calculate the Cost of Starting a Mobile Oil Change Business
Starting a mobile carwash business requires buying several different items, including oils, filters, hosing, and pumping equipment.
To start a mobile oil-changing service, you need an initial outlay of between $2,500 and $10,000. It gets cheaper if you use a used van rather than a new one.
4. Name Your Business
It’s important to choose a business naming strategy that fits your business services. Read our article on how to choose a good business naming strategy if you haven’t already done so.
5. Register Your Business
It is important to choose the right type of structure for your organization depending on your resources and the size of operations.
If you’re from the US, the most common type of business entity for small businesses is limited liability companies (LLCs). Lawyers usually recommend setting up an LLC because it protects your personal assets in case the business is legally sued.
6. Licenses, Permits, & Insurance for Mobile Oil Change Service Business
You don’t need much permission to run this type of service. However, you may need to get a state-specific license if you want to offer services in certain states.
If you’re planning to start an auto repair shop, check out the official site of the Small Business Administration (SBA) to see if you need any special licensing or permit to operate one.
You need to get auto liability coverage for your mobile oil change service business and your vehicle as well. If anything happens to your clients’ cars, you may be asked to pay for their damages, so it’s best to protect yourself from potential losses.
7. Supplies & Equipment for Mobile Change Business
You must know what kind of tools are needed for your business. In addition, you should have a vehicle for transportation. Usually, the required equipment is filters, lubricants, motor fluids, storage containers, and a container to store used fluid. The estimated cost of setting up the mobile service station from home will be about $5,000 to $10,000
Below is a list of some basic equipment needed for starting an oil change business.
- Hydraulic Jacks
- Oil Filter Pliers
- Oil Change Pump / Extractor
- Oil Filter Cap Wrench
- Oil Drain Pan
- Oil Change Ramps
- Oil Spill Mats
- Set of work gloves
- Fill Funnel
- Synthetic oil and lubes (such as windshield wiper, car wash, brake, etc.)
It would be best if you had a place where you could store all the equipment and the oil. Choose one that is waterproof.
8. Pricing
Start by deciding on the pricing for your specific services. You want them to be relatively inexpensive so that they’re affordable for everyone but at the same time, you want to charge enough to cover costs.
Mobile change companies charge anywhere from $25 – $60 per customer. You must check out how your competitors set their prices before creating yours.
9. Build a Client base
If you want to get new customers, contact them and tell them how you will provide better services for less money. Make sure you present your mobile car wash business with professionalism by using a business card and wearing a uniform.
Also, one can contact auto rental firms for bulk orders. One can give discounts to customers who book appointments for multiple oil changes.
10. Create an Online presence
Create a good and informative website for your busiÂness and get some social media ads going. Then create an online bookÂing system through your website and provide enough informaÂtion about the service.
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