Air Compressor Shop with Service Bay
Run a small unit that stocks compressors, parts and fittings, with a bench for repairs and servicing.
- C$40k-120k
- Full-time
- Own premises
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
A small trade counter in an industrial unit selling new and refurbished compressors, hoses, fittings, filters and dryers. It has a service bay for repairs and can also send out a technician.
Your first three steps
- Apply for dealer or distributor agreements with one or two compressor brands and ask about minimum orders and training
- Look at small industrial units near trade customers and check zoning and rent with the landlord and municipality
- Write a simple plan with stock budget, rent and a break-even point, and take it to your bank or a small business lender
Who pays
Builders, workshops, factories, farms and tradespeople who want advice, stock on the shelf and fast repairs.
How it makes money
Margin on equipment and parts sales, repair and servicing labour, and maintenance contracts. Refurbished units can add extra margin.
Skills that help
- Mechanical repair and servicing
- Stock control and ordering
- Sales and technical advice for trade customers
Watch out for
- Check your municipality's business licence and zoning rules for retail and workshop use
- Pressure equipment rules differ by province, so check registration and repair requirements with your provincial safety regulator
- Commercial general liability, product liability and property insurance
- Stock ties up cash, so start with fast-moving items and order the rest on request
- WCB or WSIB coverage and workplace safety rules if you hire, which vary by province
- Check how WHMIS applies to the oils and chemicals you store and sell
🔒 Full research report for Canada
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to open an air compressor shop?
Startup costs are typically estimated at around $40,000 to $120,000, depending on your unit, opening stock and workshop equipment. Stock ties up cash, so start with fast-moving items and order the rest on request.
How much can an air compressor shop earn?
Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on sales volume, repair work and how much stock you carry. Running the shop typically takes at least about 35 hours a week.
What rules should I check before opening a compressor shop?
Check your municipality's business licence and zoning rules for retail and workshop use. Pressure equipment rules differ by province, so check registration and repair requirements with your provincial safety regulator, plus how WHMIS applies to oils and chemicals you store.
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