When the tread on a vehicle’s tires gets worn down it is time to consider replacement. Whether that means heading to the dealership where you bought your car, a local tire store or an online retailer you will need to know what type of tire you need and which one fits your specific vehicle. A Tire Shop will have a wide selection to choose from and can offer you a professional installation. They can also provide advice on which type of tire is best suited to your needs based on driving style climate and the anticipated tread life.
When you are ready to start your own tire shop you will need to decide on the legal structure of your business. The options include a sole proprietorship LLC an S Corporation or a C Corporation. You should consult with a business attorney to see which option makes the most sense for your business. The type of business entity you select will impact your taxation.
The next step in starting a tire shop is to obtain the necessary licenses and insurance. You will need a general liability policy to cover any damage caused by your employees or products as well as auto insurance in case of an accident involving one of your customers. Depending on your state laws and the type of business you are running you may need a license from your county or city as well.
Once you have your licensing and insurance in place it is time to start establishing your business. You will need a location that is easily accessible to your target market and has plenty of parking available. The proximity to other businesses and shopping areas is helpful for attracting customers.
You will need a variety of equipment to install and repair tires. For simple repairs you will need an air compressor and a set of lug wrenches as well as some smaller tools like patching kits and plugging materials. A two-post car lift is essential to lift vehicles for mounting and balancing. Most shops will do basic wheel alignment but some will offer mechanical work to varying degrees such as brakes U-joints and front end components.
In addition to the necessary equipment you will need a supply of tires in all shapes and sizes. Retailer chains like Discount Tire and Tire Kingdom will have a large selection of choices while independent tire shops have the flexibility to stock all types of tires. You will also need to have the space for storing inventory.
Marketing your tire shop is a key to success. You will need to advertise locally and make your business visible through social media. You can use coupons to encourage new customers to visit and establish a reputation for customer service. Getting listed on Google’s local business search can also increase traffic and sales. Running first-time customer specials and offering free diagnostic services can help drive repeat business and referrals. Embracing green initiatives can also distinguish your tire shop from other competitors and attract customers who are environmentally responsible.