Mobile printer and copier repair business

Small businesses, medical and dental offices, schools, accountants, law firms and property managers that rely on their machines every day.

A call-out fee plus labour and parts for one-off repairs, or a monthly or yearly maintenance plan for regular visits. Parts and toner can carry a markup.

• Fault-finding and mechanical aptitude
• Basic networking and driver setup
• Clear communication with non-technical staff

• Commercial general liability insurance, since you work on clients' premises and equipment
• Whether manufacturers restrict access to service manuals, parts or software for independent repairers
• Check how to handle used toner, ink and electronic parts under your province's recycling and waste rules
• Registering for GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold
• Winter driving and carrying heavy machines, so plan for safe lifting and a reliable vehicle

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,500 to $10,000, depending on your tools, parts stock and vehicle. Treat this as an estimate and price your own setup before committing. Insurance and a reliable vehicle are worth including in your budget.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how many hours you work, your client mix and whether you build up maintenance plans. Revenue is not profit, so allow for parts, fuel and insurance costs.

Check that you have commercial general liability insurance, since you work on clients' premises and equipment. Also check whether manufacturers restrict access to service manuals, parts or software, how your province's rules cover used toner and electronic parts, and when to register for GST/HST.