Truck and van accessories shop

Owner-drivers, small trucking and delivery firms, tradies with work vans and utes, and private four-wheel-drive owners.

Mark-up on products sold over the counter and to regular trade customers, plus a fitting fee for jobs you do in-house.

• Knowing trucks, vans and their parts
• Customer service and product advice
• Stock control and ordering from suppliers

• Vehicle modification rules differ by state; check which products (bars, lights, lift or load fittings) must meet Australian Design Rules or need engineering approval
• Some lights and bars are for off-road use only, so check what you can say about legal road use
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus a check that fitting work is covered
• Australian Consumer Law warranties and refund obligations on what you sell
• Lease terms, stock tied up in unsold items, and GST registration once you reach the turnover threshold
• Any electrical wiring or fitting work may need qualified staff; check your state's requirements

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and how much stock you carry. Stock tied up in unsold items and lease terms can affect how much cash you need.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $12,000 to $60,000, depending on location, range and whether you offer fitting. That is revenue, not profit, so stock, rent and wages come out of it. Expect around 40 hours a week or more.

Check your state's vehicle modification rules, including which bars, lights, lift or load fittings must meet Australian Design Rules or need engineering approval. Check what you can say about road use for off-road-only products, and whether wiring or fitting work needs qualified staff. Also check your insurance.