Small AV equipment rental with delivery

Event organizers, churches, schools, PTAs, nonprofits, small businesses and people hosting parties, weddings or outdoor movie nights.

Daily or weekend rental fees per item or package, plus delivery, setup and optional on-site tech fees. Packages such as a speaker and mic kit or a projector and screen kit make pricing simple.

• Basic knowledge of audio and projection gear
• Organizing bookings and inventory
• Customer service
• Careful handling and testing of equipment

• General liability insurance, and equipment coverage for theft, damage and transit, check what your policy covers when gear is off site
• Check whether your city or county requires a business license, and whether your HOA or lease allows storing inventory and customers or deliveries at home
• Use a written rental agreement with a security deposit and clear damage and late return terms
• Check your state's rules on collecting sales tax on rentals, as these vary
• Equipment can be lost, damaged or stolen, so keep records and test gear before and after every rental

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how much gear you buy and your insurance. These are estimates. Check what your equipment coverage includes for theft, damage and transit when gear is off site.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $3,500, depending on how many bookings you get and your rental rates. These are estimates. A starting point is roughly 8 hours a week, and gear can be lost, damaged or stolen, so keep records.

Check whether your city or county requires a business license, and whether your HOA or lease allows storing inventory and deliveries at home. Check your state's rules on collecting sales tax on rentals, and use a written rental agreement with a security deposit.