Introduction

As we embarked on this exciting journey, we were not just thinking about making money changing oil; We were focused on offering convenience for auto owners. In this article, we’ll cover everything from how we set up our business to how we delight our customers with top-notch service.

1. The Roadmap: Getting Started

1.1. Is A Mobile Oil Change Business Profitable?

Before hitting the road, we created a Profitability Analysis.

• Revenue Minus Expenses: We decided what we would charge per oil change and subtracted our expenses; including overhead, operating expenses, and supplies.
• Break-point: Calculated how many appointments per week or month before our mobile oil change business became profitable.
• Possibility of Expansion: We also calculated in our model how all this may change if we decided to expand;  IE; Open Franchises, hire 1099, or W2’s employees.

1.2. Legal Nuts and Bolts

Keeping our legal ducks in a row:

• Business Structure: From sole proprietor, LLC, or corporation; we decided on registering as an LLC.
• Licenses and Permits: Checked local and state requirements.  Some areas require a business license and an environmental permit.
• Insurance: We chose to have liability insurance to protect ourselves as well as shop-keeper’s insurance, which protects our customer’s vehicle while we’re working on it.

1.3. The Right Gear

To van or not to van:

• Company Vehicle: Can we operate from a car instead of a van like everyone else?  It would reduce operational cost and be way better for the environment.  what might we need to change? Would it effect efficiencies and would it have any effect on providing exceptional customer experience?
• Quality Tools: Socket Set, Wrenches, oil filters, funnels, and drain pans, etc.
• Oil and Filters: We decided to offer only name brand full synthetic oil and name brand filters.
• Safety Equipment: Gloves, safety glasses, and spill kits, etc.

2. Hitting the Streets: Marketing and Branding

2.1. Brand Identity

• Name and Logo: We chose a catchy name that we felt reflects our business and designed a professional logo.
• Uniforms: Branded uniforms adds credibility and makes us memorable.

2.2. Marketing Strategies

• Local SEO: We optimize our website for local searches using keywords like “mobile oil change in Salt Lake County.”
• Social Media: We share tips, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and customer testimonials.
• Referral Program: Encourage satisfied customers to refer friends and family.