Catering and event equipment hire business

Caterers, street food traders, wedding and event planners, pubs, schools and private hosts running larger events.

Hire fees per item or package per day, plus delivery and collection charges, with deposits held against damage. Repeat bookings from caterers and planners help steady income.

• Stock control and logistics
• Driving and safe lifting
• Dealing with trade customers and quoting

• Check you have public liability insurance, and cover for stock, the unit and the van
• Gas and electrical equipment needs regular safety checks; check what testing and records are expected
• Check the unit's lease terms and permitted use with the landlord or council
• Sole trader or limited company set-up, plus VAT registration if turnover grows
• Heavy stock and weekend work can be demanding, and dealing with damaged or late returns takes time

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £40,000 to £150,000, depending on the range of stock, the van, unit deposit and fit-out, and insurance. Costs vary widely, so build a stock list and get quotes first.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on your stock range, how often kit is booked, your delivery area and pricing. These are estimates, and bookings can vary through the year.

Check you have public liability insurance and cover for stock, the unit and the van. Gas and electrical equipment needs regular safety checks, so find out what testing and records are expected. Also check your lease terms and permitted use with the landlord or council.