Car accessories storefront

Local drivers, car enthusiasts, rideshare drivers, and small garages or detailers who buy supplies in bulk.

Markup on each product sold, plus small fitting fees and repeat trade sales to garages and detailers at a lower margin but steady volume.

• Friendly, knowledgeable customer service
• Basic knowledge of cars and fitment
• Inventory ordering and tracking

• State sales tax registration and resale certificate rules, check with your state's revenue department
• General liability insurance and a lease you can afford if sales start slowly
• Some products such as headlight bulbs, underglow lights, window tint and license plate covers are restricted in some states, check local rules before stocking
• Cash tied up in slow-moving stock, start with a small range of proven sellers
• Competition from big-box auto stores and online sellers on price, so focus on service and advice

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your lease and fit-out, how much stock you buy and any fitting services you add. Starting with a small range of proven sellers can keep costs down.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your location, product range, pricing and any fitting services. The estimate assumes about 40 hours a week or more. Competition from big-box and online sellers affects results.

Check state sales tax registration and resale certificate rules with your state's revenue department. Check whether products such as headlight bulbs, underglow lights, window tint and license plate covers are restricted locally. Also check general liability insurance and make sure your lease is affordable.