Starting a Car Accessories Business
Car accessories, such as body kits, rims, car
alarms and stereo systems, enhance both the interior and exterior of cars,
trucks and other vehicles. Open a car accessories and installation business to
sell these items to those who want to make their vehicle more comfortable and
more fun to drive. Stock a variety of accessories for different types of
vehicles. Offer installation services to make purchasing these items more
convenient for customers and to encourage repeat business.
Step 1: Create a business plan to help guide you through
each stage of business development when starting a car accessories store. List
the types of accessories and installation services you plan to offer customers
in the first section. List startup costs, such as rent, utilities, labor,
upfront costs for accessories, business insurance and marketing costs, in the
second section. Outline ways to market your store to customers in the third
section. List all management and employee responsibilities in the fourth
section.
Step 2: Apply for a business license to operate a car
accessories business in your area. Contact the county clerk or small business
administration office for information about licensing applications and fees.
Apply for an Employer Identification Number through the Internal Revenue
Service. Use the EIN on tax and other business forms. Purchase business
insurance from a licensed insurance provider. Business insurance helps protect
your products from theft or damage. Insurance can also protect business assets
in the event of a lawsuit or settlement.
Step 3: Lease commercial retail space from a commercial real
estate agent in a busy shopping area or downtown location. This space should be
large enough to display various car accessories to attract customers. Retail
space should also include storage space for additional items and an area for
you to install accessories, such as tire rims and light covers.
Step 4: Purchase car accessories from accessory
manufacturers and vendors. Attend local auto trade shows to learn more about
what is trendy in car accessories. Purchase bookkeeping and retail software to
track sales and monitor inventory. Purchase display racks and shelving to
display car accessories.
Step 5: Market your business by creating fliers and business
cards. Contact auto repair shops, auto detailing services and stereo
installation businesses to ask for referrals. Create a website to showcase the
types of car accessories you have in stock. Include contact information, hours
of operation and ordering and payment options. List your business in local
business directories.











