Mobile school band instrument repair

School music departments, school districts, private music academies and parents of rental students.

Per-visit or hourly fees for on-site repairs, per-job pricing for bench work, and parts. Some schools agree to a seasonal service plan, such as a check-up before concerts.

• Repairing brass, woodwind and string instruments
• Working quickly and tidily on site
• Dealing with school staff and paperwork
• Planning visits and managing a schedule

• Many districts require vendor registration, a W-9 and proof of insurance; check with each district
• Background checks are often required to work around students; check local requirements
• General liability insurance and coverage for instruments in your care
• Check your city or county for a business license and your state's sales tax rules on repair services and parts
• School budgets run on set cycles, so payment can be slow and work is seasonal

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on your tools, parts stock and how you equip your vehicle for visits. These are estimates, so price your kit before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on how many schools and studios you serve. School budgets run on set cycles, so payment can be slow and work is seasonal.

Many districts require vendor registration, a W-9 and proof of insurance, so check with each one. Also check background check requirements for working around students, liability and instrument coverage, your business license, and state sales tax rules.