The Steps to Setting Up Your Own Vehicle Repair Body Shop
If you have a passion for automobiles then opening a vehicle repair shop could be a smart move. This is a huge industry because automobiles play such a big part of modern-day life and they will always require repairs and maintenance.Services
A car body shop can carry out repairs, respray vehicles, fit modifications and carry out general maintenance so there is a huge amount that you can provide for customers and the chance for great success. This means that the average day in a car repair shop can be challenging, busy and physically demanding but it can also be incredibly rewarding and enjoyable to meet so many different people.
Target Market
As with any type of business, it is important that you carry out your research and identify who your target customer is. You could opt for a niche car body shop and specialise in luxury or classic cars or you could target a much larger group and carry out repairs on all types of vehicles. Keep in mind that this is a highly competitive industry so you will need to find a way to differentiate yourself from the competition whether this is through a unique service, strong branding or lower prices.
Getting Started
So, what do you need to start? The costs can be relatively high to get set up and running but once you have everything that you need then you can immediately start attracting customers. The main costs involved include:
Land: You will need a large space of land which will have a garage where you can carry out repairs, space for customers to park and leave their cars, an office section for running the business side of the operation and a waiting area for customers.
Equipment: Repair equipment can be expensive but it is essential that you have everything that you need and quality equipment. The main items to invest in include:
- Air compressor
- Spray gun
- Autobody hammer and dolly set
- Jack stands
- Battery charger
- Engine hoist
- Brake lathe
- Press
- Transmission jack
- Power tools