The automotive glass repair and replacement industry is huge. The market is worth hundreds of billions of dollars in the US alone, and it’s growing rapidly. The business is considered part of the larger automotive aftermarket, which includes all transactions that occur after a vehicle leaves the factory. As such, there are a lot of opportunities to capture in this lucrative sector. If you’re thinking about opening an auto glass shop, here are a few things to consider.
A good business plan is essential to getting your auto glass shop off the ground. It should include an estimate of initial start-up costs, as well as ongoing operating expenses and revenue. The budget should also include a detailed breakdown of the specific equipment and supplies you will need to get started. For example, you will need to invest in tools and equipment, branding, insurance, and inventory. It is also a good idea to set aside a reserve fund for unexpected expenses, like weather-related damage or other unforeseen events.
Once you have your business plan in place, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate licenses and permits. You will also need to register your business name and get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for federal tax purposes. If you’re going to operate your auto glass business from a physical location, you will also need a Certificate of Occupancy to verify that your business meets building codes and zoning requirements in your area.
When choosing an auto glass company, it’s important to find one that is licensed and insured. Ideally, you should also choose one that uses OEM quality glass, which provides better fit and safety than non-OEM glass. It is also helpful to choose a company that has a good reputation in the community, and a website with customer reviews and testimonials.
Lastly, it’s crucial to choose an auto glass company that works with the major insurance carriers to ensure their customers receive coverage for repair and replacement services. Many insurance companies will cover windshield repairs without a deductible, and some even offer this service for free.
Digital marketing is essential to any business, and an auto glass shop is no different. You’ll want to create a professional-looking website that features your contact information, hours of operation, and any other relevant information about your business. Make sure your website is mobile-friendly, so it’s accessible to people who use smartphones to search for local businesses.
You should also make it a point to promote your business on social media, as this is an excellent way to reach potential customers. Be sure to have a clear, professional-looking photo of yourself or any technicians working on cars to build trust and credibility. Lastly, you should also have a blog on your website with industry news and relevant topics.
Once you’ve built up a list of email addresses, you can start sending out emails about special promotions, new products, outreach and charitable work your company does in the community, and more. You can also add a subscription form to your website so people can sign up for a weekly newsletter or other updates.