Starting an Auto Repair Business: Top 5 Things to Consider in the Post-Pandemic World!

Stepping into the auto repair shop industry isn’t easy at all, but it is one of those decisions of your life that’ll prove to be the best. Whether it is in terms of investment, or long-term business plans, starting an auto repair shop is a good option for financial stability and success. Ever since the global pandemic has hit us, the auto repair business is growing. People are avoiding public transports, and thus, the need for individual cars is increasing.

On average, an American vehicle is now older than ever before. People have reduced purchasing new cars due to a decline in the economy, which creates a massive opportunity in the repair sector. The older the vehicle is, the more chance for the repair is.

Considering the above factors and the current situation of COVID-19, you must step into the world of the auto repair business. It’ll be a win-win situation. But, before direct jumping into it, keep in mind the essentials and technicalities of the business.

Remember, fools rush in where angels fear to tread.

So, hold on. Do proper research, think about the plan, gather ideas to raise capital, explore the right auto repair shop software, talk about the ins and outs of buying an auto repair shop with some experts. Here are the things to consider (must) before purchasing an auto repair shop or starting your own business.

What are you interested in? The repair types?

First of all, keep in mind that repairing is a vast ground to step in. You have hundreds of options there to choose from. So, before starting the practical implementation of your idea, figure out the type of repairs you are interested in or experts in.

Clear your vision for the path you choose and know precisely what kind of auto repair shop you plan to start. Note down the services that you’ll be offering because There are many kinds of different auto shops, and each one is a little different. Some of them provide oil change only, and many repair shops offer car accessories for upgrading old models.

That’s not a failure if you pick one or two from them, but it’ll be a plus. You’ll be specialized in your repairs, and people always prefer the master. Here are some options to choose from:

• Body shops
• Dent fixer/ exterior expert
• Transmission Shops
• Tire Repair and Tire Retail Shops
• Body repair center
• Auto paint experts
• Autoglass repair specialists
• Vehicle Refinishers
• Diagnostic Technicians Shop
• Oil and Fluid Changes

These are only a few types of services you can choose from, but many other options are available. Do not hurry; take your time to learn about them and determine the kind of business you want to open.

Buy a Franchise or Start your Own Shop?

So, here’s a tough decision, and the smart one too. Ask yourself if you want to start from scratch and build your own repair shop? Or there’s an option to get an already established repair garage. What would you prefer?

Getting a ready-made repair shop gives you an already established brand name right out of the gate. It also saves months of construction, finding the right location, and then getting it registered. But if you want to start from the ground, it is up to you. Starting your own repair shop will save you from paying a franchise fee and a royalty fee on sales.

Contrarily, we’ll recommend you opt for a franchise. Why? Because it gives you a reasonable chance at success. On the other hand, an independent shop? Not so much.

Do You Need a Business Plan?

YES! There’s no doubt about it. It may seem easy to start repairs and get the money, but everything will be messed up in the long run. You’ll stick to the same customer count even after a year or two of launch. What’s the benefit?

A business plan for repair shops can help outline and identify every aspect of the business, and it’ll point out the growth opportunities. If you have a strategy beforehand, you can easily see the loopholes, and weaknesses, to eliminate the risk of anything going wrong when starting your shop.

Remember, your business plan should have revisions and different versions based on the research you do, and it should be detailed, so you don’t have to plan at every other stage of the business launch.

Do You Have Legal Advice?

Stepping into the repair business means being accountable for costly repairs. Sometimes, these accountabilities and conflicts can be disastrous. So, ensure that you have access to reliable and quality legal advice. A professional can assist you in staying away from a permanent shutdown and many other problems. Having a legal counselor can help you navigate the complex business landscape. Their main activities are:

• Providing a business license
• They are in full compliance with any liability or insurance requirements
• They have access to accounts management
• Have the help you need to file your incorporation paperwork

Find out a firm that helps small-scale businesses in legal matters, and consider retaining an attorney. It doesn’t mean that you need a full-time lawyer for your independent repair shop, but getting professional advice from day-1 will save you plenty of headaches.

When to Start Marketing?

Marketing and advertising should start as soon as you are sure about what to do. You shouldn’t wait for the repair shop actually to start running. You may be thinking, why would anyone come to you when you have nothing to offer? Yes, you can secure customers by providing them early-bird discount vouchers.

They’ll pay you a percentage of the total cost and can get a discount when the repair shop is up and running. To let more people know about you, you’ll need a website where customers can find your business online and schedule their auto services.

Get your brand name printed and distribute it all over the place. Try every digital and physical marketing channel and see the benefits.

CONCLUSION

There’s never been a better time to get in on the auto repair industry. Of course, with every new business, prior preparation is the key to future success. Good luck!