Small trailer rental fleet from home

Homeowners doing moves, cleanouts or landscaping projects, plus small contractors and hobbyists who need a trailer occasionally.

Daily and weekend rental fees, with a refundable deposit and optional extras like straps, ramps or a hitch ball. Revenue grows with each extra trailer you add.

• Basic trailer and towing knowledge
• Customer service
• Simple bookkeeping and scheduling

• Insurance: check what commercial or rental coverage you need, as personal auto policies often do not cover renting trailers out
• Check your state's rules on trailer registration, plates and inspections
• Check city or county business license and sales tax or rental tax requirements
• Customers must have a suitable vehicle and hitch, so check towing capacity before every rental
• Wear and tear, damage and late returns, so use a clear agreement and a deposit

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $2,500 to $12,000, depending on how many trailers you buy, their type and condition, and your insurance. You can run a small fleet at around 4 hours a week.

Check what commercial or rental insurance you need, as personal auto policies often do not cover renting trailers out. Also check your state's trailer registration, plates and inspection rules, local business license, sales or rental tax requirements, and customers' towing capacity.

Monthly revenue is typically around $400 to $2,000 by estimate, depending on how many trailers you rent, your daily rates and how often they are booked. Wear, damage and late returns can affect results. These are estimates, not guarantees.