Truck canopy and accessories shop

Pickup owners, contractors, fleet buyers and small businesses, plus walk-in customers looking for accessories.

Margin on caps, covers and accessories, plus fitting fees. Repeat business from fleets, repairs and add-ons such as liners and racks helps smooth income.

• Fitting and basic vehicle wiring
• Retail sales and customer service
• Managing stock and supplier accounts

• Commercial lease terms, deposits and zoning for vehicle fitting work
• Commercial general liability and property insurance, and check cover for customers' vehicles while on your premises
• Stock tied up in inventory can strain cashflow, especially through the winter
• Check provincial and municipal rules on signage, business licences and waste disposal
• WCB/WSIB coverage rules by province once you hire a fitter
• Register for GST/HST once required, and check provincial sales tax rules

Estimates suggest startup typically costs around $50,000 to $150,000, depending on premises, stock levels and fitting equipment. Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000 in these estimates, depending on location, season and product range.

Check commercial lease terms, deposits and zoning for vehicle fitting work. Also check insurance, including cover for customers' vehicles on your premises, provincial and municipal rules on signage, business licences and waste disposal, and WCB/WSIB rules once you hire a fitter.

Useful skills include fitting and basic vehicle wiring, retail sales and customer service, and managing stock and supplier accounts. The estimates assume at least about 35 hours a week, and stock can strain cashflow, especially through the winter.