Walk-in fax, copy and scan counter

Walk-in customers such as residents, tenants, job seekers, travelers and nearby small businesses without their own fax machine.

Per-page fees for faxes sent and received, plus charges for copies, scans, printing and similar document services.

• Friendly customer service
• Basic office equipment know-how
• Handling cash and simple bookkeeping

• Rent and equipment costs can outweigh fax income alone, so check your numbers before signing a lease
• Startup costs usually include a security deposit, first month's rent, counter and fixtures, signage, equipment and insurance, so get quotes before committing
• Customers' documents may be private, so check what privacy rules apply and never keep copies you don't need
• Check your state's sales tax rules for services like copying and printing
• General liability and property insurance are worth checking, plus workers' compensation if you hire
• Fax demand is shrinking, so plan on other document services too

Startup costs are typically around $10,000 to $35,000, depending on location, equipment and lease terms. They usually include a security deposit, first month's rent, counter and fixtures, signage, equipment and insurance, so get quotes before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on location, foot traffic and the services you offer. Rent and equipment costs can outweigh fax income alone, so check your numbers before signing a lease.

Customers' documents may be private, so check what privacy rules apply and don't keep copies you don't need. Also check your state's sales tax rules for copying and printing, and look into general liability and property insurance.