Mobile ute canopy and tonneau cover fitter

Ute owners, tradies, tourers and campers, and small businesses with work utes.

You earn a margin on each canopy or cover sold, plus a fitting fee and extras like locks, racks and lighting.

• Practical, hands-on fitting
• Measuring and matching products to different ute models
• Customer service and quoting

• Public liability insurance, and check whether your policy covers work at customers' premises
• Vehicle modification rules differ by state and territory, so check with your state transport authority about canopy weight, payload and visibility
• Any wiring for lights or power may need a licensed auto electrician, so check your state's rules
• Australian Consumer Law warranty obligations and how your supplier handles faulty products
• Holding stock at home may need council approval for a home-based business

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the ute or van you already have, the stock and accessories you buy from wholesalers or manufacturers, and your insurance.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many canopies and covers you sell and fit, and the products you stock. Hours are estimated from about 15 per week.

Check that public liability insurance covers work at customers' premises, and vehicle modification rules with your state transport authority on weight, payload and visibility. Also check whether wiring needs a licensed auto electrician, Australian Consumer Law warranty obligations, and council approval for storing stock at home.