Mobile Windshield Replacement Van Business

Drivers paying out of pocket, insurance companies and their claims networks, dealerships, body shops and fleet owners.

Price per job based on the vehicle and glass type. Insurance jobs are often paid through claims networks, while cash jobs are paid directly by the customer.

• Careful, precise hands-on work
• Safe lifting and glass handling
• Scheduling and customer communication

• Many newer vehicles have driver assistance cameras that may need calibration after replacement, so check how you will handle this (partner or equipment)
• Follow adhesive cure time guidance so the car is safe to drive, and look into industry safety standards and training
• General liability, commercial auto and garage-type coverage, and workers' compensation once you hire
• Check your state and city for business license rules and any insurance claim rules for glass shops
• Weather limits mobile work, so plan for rescheduling

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $30,000, depending on the van fit-out, glass stock and tools you buy. These are estimates, so get quotes for your van, adhesive, tools and insurance before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on how many jobs you book and how much work comes from insurers, dealers or fleets. That is revenue, not profit, and weather can force rescheduling.

Things to check: general liability, commercial auto and garage-type coverage, plus workers' compensation once you hire. Check your state and city for business license rules and any insurance claim rules for glass shops. Also plan how you will handle driver assistance camera calibration.