Mobile tack shop at barns and shows

Horse owners, boarders, riding students, trainers and show competitors who want gear without a long drive to a store.

Retail markup on products sold at events and barn visits, plus margin on special orders. Repeat visits to the same barns build steady sales.

• Knowing horse gear and fit
• Buying and managing stock
• Friendly, trusted customer service
• Driving and towing

• Sales tax registration and a seller's permit with your state, plus any city or county business license
• General liability and vehicle or trailer insurance, and check coverage for goods in transit
• Event vendor fees and rules, which vary by show and venue
• Stock that doesn't sell, such as sizes and styles, so start small
• Helmet and safety gear: check safety standards and return policies

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the trailer or van you use and how much opening stock you buy. Starting with a small range helps limit the risk of stock that doesn't sell.

Monthly revenue is an estimate, typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many barns, shows and clinics you visit and what you sell. Event vendor fees and unsold stock can reduce what you keep.

Check sales tax registration and a seller's permit with your state, plus any city or county business license. Also check insurance for the business, vehicle and trailer, event vendor fees and rules, and helmet safety standards and return policies.