Many heavy duty repair businesses are making the switch from traditional repair shops to mobile repair services to better serve their customers. If you’re considering doing the same, here are few things you should know.
Auto Insurance Requirements for Mobile Repair Businesses
Do you have a commercial auto policy? As a mobile service provider, you’ll be driving a vehicle back and forth between repairs. That commercial vehicle will also house thousands of dollars worth of equipment and tools.
A commercial auto policy protects you, your employees and your equipment in the event of an accident, theft or vandalism. It can help you recoup some of the costs associated with property damage or loss.
Purchasing the Proper Mobile Repair Equipment
The equipment you carry is critical to your mobile repair services. First, you’ll need a truck capable of hauling the equipment you need for repairs.
Next, you’ll need to consider the type of tools you’ll need to carry inside of your truck. For example, you’ll need simple tools for making fast roadside repairs such as sockets for tire replacement. Other tools and equipment may include:
- Air compressors
- Oils and lubricants
- Torque wrenches
- Welding kits
- Electrical system tools such as wire and tape
- Drills and bits
The tools you choose to carry will depend greatly on the customers you serve and the calls you typically receive.
If you have a repair shop you’re moving to mobile, you’ll want to consider whether you need to purchase additional tools to use for your mobile services while leaving what you have currently in your brick-and-mortar shop.
Promoting Your New Business
When you’re ready to get started, it’s important to spread the word about your mobile repair services. Here are a few tried and true tips to help you do just that:
- Share your services on social: Share your new mobile repair services on your social media accounts (and if you don’t already have a Facebook account, check out this blog post). Join a few Facebook groups dedicated to heavy duty repair shops. Social media marketing is not only effective but generally free.
- Update your mailing or email list: Share your new service with your existing customers on your email or mailing list. Add the new service notice to your e-newsletter or send a postcard in the mail.
- Try a directory: Adding your mobile repair services to an online directory is a great way to get found by prospective customers. Some examples include NTTS and Find Truck Service. RoadSync also offers an in-depth heavy duty repair directory, BigRig411.
- Create a simple website: It’s nearly impossible to grow a business without a website. Create a simple one that communicates what you do, who you do it for and why. A website helps you show up in search when your potential customers are looking for the services you offer.
Accept Roadside Payments Simply With RoadSync Checkout
Ready to take the plunge into heavy duty mobile repair? RoadSync makes it easy to accept roadside payments from your mobile repair customers. Get started today!
