Walk-in tire repair and fitting shop

Local drivers, van owners, small delivery and trades businesses, and cyclists with flats.

Fixed prices per repair, per tire fitted and per seasonal swap, plus a margin on tires you sell. Spring and fall swap rushes bring the biggest volume.

• Mechanical aptitude and comfort with tire machines
• Customer service at the counter
• Basic bookkeeping and stock ordering

• Zoning and business licence for the unit, check with your municipality
• Commercial general liability and garage keepers insurance, as you hold customers' vehicles
• Rules on disposing of old tires and waste, check your province's tire stewardship or recycling program
• Provincial rules on winter tires (for example in Quebec) and on trade certification, check your provincial regulator
• Heavy seasonal peaks and quiet summer or mid-winter periods can strain cash flow

Estimates suggest startup costs typically sit around $25,000 to $90,000, depending on the unit, equipment and stock. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on location and season. Treat both as estimates, not guarantees.

Things to check include zoning and a business licence with your municipality, commercial general liability and garage keepers insurance (you hold customers' vehicles), and your province's tire stewardship or recycling program. Also check provincial winter tire rules and trade certification.

The idea calls for mechanical aptitude and comfort with tire machines, good customer service at the counter, and basic bookkeeping and stock ordering. Plan for seasonal peaks and quiet periods, which can strain cash flow. Estimates suggest at least 35 hours a week.