Start a Mobile Oil Change Business: Before You Buy Your Equipment

The onsite oil change industry is rapidly growing and many people have decided to start their own mobile oil change business to break aware from the gruesome 9-5 workday. Owning an onsite oil change business can generate significant income and allow you to work when you want to and where you want to. There are so many options out there for starting your own mobile oil change business that sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming. Here are a few things you need to think about before you get started.

Franchise or Independent

Onsite oil change equipment can be bought two different ways. You can buy the equipment from an independent manufacturer or you can choose to start your own franchise. Mobile oil change equipment usually costs significantly more when purchased as a franchise because it is usually sold as part of a start up kit. You can expect to pay about $20,000 more is you choose this route. It does come with its advantages though. When purchasing a franchise, all of the trial and error has already been done for you. When you purchase the equipment this way, it usually comes with a business plan and everything you need to get started.

For the independent thinker or entrepreneur, buying your onsite oil change equipment from an independent manufacturer may be your best bet. First off, you can save thousands on the equipment. A lot of times with a Franchise, you pay more for equipment because the brand has already been built for you. If you are a good salesman and promoter, you can purchase the equipment and build your own brand. Purchasing independently also allows you more flexibly as you aren’t required to adhere to the franchise standards that have already been put in place. You can choose your own name for your business and set your own prices. Also, if you wish to expand the business by adding additional services, a franchise might not allow you to do this.

Required Licenses and Permits

Be sure to check with your local municipalities to get the required licenses to start your business. An onsite oil change business, just like any other business, requires a business license to operate. You also need to have a plan in place for how you will store and dispose of used oil. The used oil containers sold with the mobile oil change equipment are pretty large to accommodate doing multiple oil changes at once. However, driving around with all this oil on your truck can be very costly to your gas mileage. You will want to dispose of the oil every chance you get. One option is to use an on property oil storage container. Keep in mind you will need to acquire a permit for one of these also.

Additional Employees

If you plan to really grow your business then you will need some help. Getting a business account with a fleet of 50 trucks would be great for you business and your income. But let’s face it. You won’t be able to do all of those oil changes alone. In order to grow your business you will need to hire additional help. The average Jiffy Lube or Wal-Mart Automotive worker makes about $8.00 an hour. You will need to calculate in the costs of additional employees when you develop your business plan. Don’t let the cost of paying employees frighten you though. You will be able to complete twice the amount of work so the additional help will pay off.

Additional Supplies

Make sure you have set aside enough money to cover additional supplies you will need when doing your onsite oil changes. Don’t think just because you have purchased the mobile equipment that you are ready to go. You will also need to invest in mats, emergency spill kits, jacks, wrenches, socket sets, gloves, etc. Don’t find yourself on the job without a wrench to do the work.