Mobile supportive shoe fitting service

Older adults with limited mobility, their families, and senior communities that arrange visit days for residents. Customers usually pay directly.

Margin on each pair, inserts and socks sold, with repeat visits as customers need new pairs. Some businesses add a small visit fee.

• Patience and kindness with older customers
• Learning foot measuring and shoe fitting
• Organizing appointments and visit days

• Check whether your state requires a business license or a sales tax permit for mobile retail
• Check whether any fitting or orthotics work needs certification in your state
• Insurance coverage for diabetic shoes has strict supplier rules; check them before promising customers any reimbursement
• Communities may require background checks, insurance certificates or approval before you visit
• Get general liability insurance and check your auto policy covers business use

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the sample range of shoes and inserts you carry and how you set up your vehicle and appointments. Treat this as an estimate and price your stock first.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many visits and fittings you complete and what customers buy. Estimates start from about 10 hours a week, so it can begin part-time.

Check whether your state requires a business license or sales tax permit for mobile retail, and whether any fitting or orthotics work needs certification. Check insurance rules for diabetic shoes, community visit requirements, and your liability and auto insurance.