How to successfully start a tyre-fitting business

The tyre-fitting market is very competitive, so if you’re looking to start your own business, you’ll need to stand out.

This guide includes everything you need to know when getting started. From initial costs to marketing and legalities, we’ve got you covered.

How to start a tyre-fitting business

Starting any business requires courage, so don’t worry if you feel a little apprehensive. This is completely normal.

Once your tyre business is up and running, you’ll be amazed at how well you adapt to your new career. And the rewards will make any initial concerns well worth it.

Here’s how to get started:

1.      Pick a catchy name

It’s important to pick a name for your tyre business that your customers will remember. This means they’ll be more likely to use you again – and pass your name over to friends and families.

2.    Set a range of goals

You’ll need to set goals that align with the direction you want your business to take. For example, if you want to increase your customer base, set a goal to attract ‘X’ new customers a month.

3.    Study your competition

Take time to learn about the competition in your area. This will help you to decide how to position your company. Whether it’s offering better prices or different services, you need a way to stand out in this competitive market.

4.    Rent a workspace or go mobile

Decide whether to operate a mobile tyre-fitting business or rent a workspace. As a mobile tyre fitter, you’ll travel to where your customers live or work and change tyres then and there.

Mobile mechanics enjoy the flexibility which going mobile permits. And roles such as these suit busy, modern life.

5.    Figure out scale

Figure out how big you want your company to be. You may prefer to start on your own – particularly if your funds are low – then expand your business and hire employees once you’re well established.

Creating a tyre-fitting business plan

In this day and age, setting up a tyre-fitting business is a great opportunity. A solid business plan can help to guide your new company and allow you to hit the ground running.

Use the following insights to put together your tyre business plan:

Competition

Look at the competition. What are they offering? Your company needs a unique selling point that your competitors aren’t providing. For example: can you offer a different service, a different experience or a better price?

Customers

You may wish to work with a wide range of customers including private motorists, dealerships, farmers, or even taxi firms. This can help you attract more customers.

But specialising in one particular type of customer may help your company stand out. You also need to decide what area you’ll cover if you plan to start a mobile tyre-fitting service.

Marketing

The best way of reaching customers is through marketing. There are various ways you can get your business seen. For instance through digital marketing (such as using social media) or by harnessing the power of print marketing (creating flyers).

A great way to reach the customers near you is to become a Checkatrade member. Not only will you get leads, but you’ll also show potential customers that you’re a trustworthy tradesperson.

Funding

Starting a new business will require funding to cover essentials like tools and insurance. So decide how you’ll fund your new business. For instance, will you save up the money to cover start-up costs? Or will you look into loans?

Finances

It’s very important to properly plan how you’ll manage your finances. So if you’re not financially savvy, it may be easier to hire an accountant to assist you. Remember, you should always make sure you pay the correct amount of tax and National Insurance.

Running your business

When setting up a tyre-fitting business you’ll have the freedom to run your company exactly how you choose. This means you can decide what hours or days to work, whether to hire employees and what services you’ll offer.

The law

Don’t forget to register your business with Companies House before you start trading.

Please note: If you’ll be transporting used tyres in your company van, you’ll need a certificate of registration as a low-tier waste carrier.

Choosing the right business insurance

Insurance is an additional cost you need to consider when starting a company.

Getting a range of cover helps to protect your company financially and legally in case of accidents or mistakes.

Insurance policies on offer include:

• Public liability insurance (all Checkatrade members require this to become a member)
• Employer’s liability insurance (if you’ll be taking on employees)
• Tool insurance
• Van insurance (if you plan for your business to be mobile)
• Income protection insurance can also be helpful (if you’re planning to go self-employed)

Not all policies will be relevant to your new tyre-fitting business, so it is worth speaking to someone such as a broker for the best advice.

In the unlikely event that something does go wrong, you want to make sure your business is protected, or else you may end up significantly out of pocket.

Tyre-fitting business start-up costs

Starting a new business is such an exciting and rewarding process. But before you jump in headfirst, remember the various items you’ll need funds for to get started, such as:

• Equipment and tools
• New tyres
• A van if you plan to set up a mobile-tyre fitting business
• A shop or garage where you’ll work and store your extra tyres and equipment
• Insurance
• Marketing

Checkatrade members save money on tools and insurance with exclusive member discounts. Plus, you’ll be seen by people looking for tyre-fitting services in your area.

There’s just one thing to remember. First, you’ll have to pass up to 12 of our checks before becoming a member.

Starting a tyre-fitting business checklist

• The tyre-fitting market is huge, meaning that there is a constant demand for experienced fitters
• Coming up with a memorable company name and a unique selling point will help you to rise above your competitors
• Joining Checkatrade is a great way to grow your new business, with your own profile page to proudly display customer reviews and testimonials
• You’ll need funding for start-up costs, but these shouldn’t be too high – especially if you own the necessary equipment

Getting insurance is the best way to protect your company against financial and legal issues.

Now is a great time to set up your very own tyre-fitting business. And hopefully, after reading our guide, you’re feeling filled with the necessary confidence to get started!

Tyre business FAQs

Is tyre-fitting profitable?

According to the Pointfranchise website, more than 100,000 tyres are fitted each day in the UK. You’ll have to compete with large tyre-fitting chains and other independent fitters. But,  if you can find a way to stand out, your business will likely be very successful.

There are a few factors that also affect how profitable your tyre-fitting business is. These include how many competitors are operating in the local area, how much you charge, and what services you offer.

How much does it cost to start a tyre-fitting business?

This will depend on your current circumstances. For instance, if you already own a van and tools, you can save on these costs. It also depends on the types of insurance you sign up for and any marketing you do.

How can I start a mobile tyre-fitting business?

Learning how to start a mobile tyre-fitting business is a great way to get your foot in the door. What’s more, you won’t need to spend your funds on business premises, saving you money on overheads.

You will however need a van that can hold all your necessary equipment and tyres. And you may need storage space if you buy your tyres in bulk.

Plus, you can add a call-out charge to the price of tyre fitting remotely. It’s also important to make sure you have a specific mobile tyre-fitting business plan.