Car accessories booth at markets and car meets

Car enthusiasts, casual drivers and market shoppers who buy on impulse or want to see items in person before buying.

Markup on products sold at the booth, with bundle deals such as cleaning kits and a mailing list or online store for repeat customers.

• Friendly selling and chatting with customers
• Setting up an attractive display
• Handling cash and card payments

• Sales tax permit and any temporary vendor permits required by the city, county or event organizer
• General liability insurance, which many events ask to see proof of
• Weather and slow event days affecting earnings, keep booth fees low at first
• Restricted items in some states such as certain lights, tint and plate covers, check before selling
• Storing and transporting stock, you may need a vehicle or small trailer

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your display and tent setup, and whether you need a vehicle or small trailer to carry it. Keeping booth fees low at first helps.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on which events you attend, your product range and the weather. Slow event days affect earnings. The estimate assumes about 10 hours a week or more.

Check for a sales tax permit and any temporary vendor permits required by the city, county or event organizer. Many events ask for proof of general liability insurance. Also check whether certain lights, tint and plate covers are restricted in your state before selling them.