How to Start a Computer Repair Business
- Determine the Characteristics of Your Ideal Clients. Before you start your own computer repair business, you need to figure out who you want to serve. ...
- Know Your Strengths and Weaknesses. As you figure out how to start a computer repair business, you need to know your own strengths and weaknesses. ...
- Set Your Rates Right from the Beginning. When you run your own computer repair business, time is money. ...
- Be Patient and Let Your Business Evolve Over Time. You can’t expect to instantly get a full roster of clients and steady revenue for your business. ...
- Remember that Marketing is Key. When you are just figuring out how to start a computer repair business, you’re going to be wearing a lot of different hats. ...
Do you need certifications to start a computer repair business?
There are no licenses required specifically for computer repair businesses; however, there are general local, state, and federal business registrations, such as a sales tax permit , Employer Identification Number, and Occupancy Permit, among others. While there are no licenses, it may be worth obtaining certification in certain technologies.
How to quit your job and start a computer business?
- When you go, don’t steal the company’s clients upon departure. ...
- Don’t recruit your friends to jump ship. ...
- Do not pocket the company stapler, a pack of stationery, or a box of pens. ...
- Sit down with your employer and map out everything you can about what you do and how you do it. ...
How to get paid to fix computers from home?
You can also use these platforms and their existing students to teach coding and Python:
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How to expand my computer repair business?
- Develop partnerships with local competition. Take a look at the other repair shops in the area. ...
- Increase the average sale price per customer. If you can up-sell products to your customers, you can still grow your business without doing any additional marketing. ...
- Start selling pre-paid service packs. Ensure customer loyalty by selling them discounted pre-
Is it hard to start a computer repair business?
Although the pros are significant, there still are some potential challenges you may face when starting a computer repair and maintenance business. They are not too difficult to overcome: It's not enough just to have the technical knowledge and skills. You'll need good communication skills.
How do I start my own computer service business?
Step 1: Build up your savings. ... Step 2: Create a business plan for your computer repair business. ... Step 3: Finance your computer repair business. ... Step 4: Choose a location. ... Step 5: Set your pricing for your computer repair services. ... Step 6: Get your computer repair and IT certifications.More items...•
Is it profitable to fix a computer?
However, taking a computer repair shop out on the road is still a viable and profitable endeavor. There are many reasons why there's plenty of space for entrepreneurs like you to offer mobile computer repairs to individuals and other businesses.
What tools are needed to start a computer repair business?
Essential tools used by computer repairing experts for the specific purposeScrewdrivers (Non-magnetic) ... ATX Power Supply Tester. ... Multi-tester. ... Cable testers. ... POST Card. ... Data-recovery software. ... USB network adapter.
How do I become a freelance computer technician?
To become a computer technician, you'll need a high school diploma or equivalent. However, you'll likely stand out from your competitors by earning an associate's degree in information technology or a bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field.
How do I get customers to fix my computer?
9 Unique and Professional Ways to Promote your Computer Repair BusinessReach your Customers. ... Experience Matters. ... Introduce Free Pick and Drop Service. ... Reasonable Pricing. ... Surprise your Customers with Free Services. ... Get Enough Time for Business Marketing. ... Networking is Also Important. ... Add on More Professionalism.More items...•
What is the weakness of computer shop business?
Weaknesses. Computer repair shops can find it difficult or virtually impossible to serve anything larger than a local area.
What are the advantages of starting a computer business?
Then again, the reality is that business people enjoy the advantages of computer application technology to make work easier and more efficient than ever.Speed and Accuracy. ... The Ability to Forecast. ... Increased Connectivity. ... Information Security. ... Entrepreneurial Opportunity. ... Hiring and Managing Employees. ... Education and Training.
What does a computer repair shop do?
Repair shops can deal with a wide variety of issues, from bad hardware components to software issues such as operating system errors. They may also be able to help you with a suspected virus or malware infection on your computer.
How much does it cost to start a computer business?
The cost of operating a computer repair business will vary depending on the business model. A home-based repair business can cost as little as $2,000 to $3,000 to start up. A repair business with a brick-and-mortar storefront will cost closer to $10,000, but startup costs are still quite manageable.
Which tool should be used in fixing a computer?
A technician uses many tools to diagnose and repair computer problems: Straight-head screwdriver, large and small. Phillips-head screwdriver, large and small. Tweezers or part retriever.
What tools do you need for a computer repair it?
BEST PC REPAIR TOOLS 2021 Some of the basic tools you need to repair a computer include screwdrivers, tweezers, multi-testers, power supply testers, and POST cards. Another important component would be some tool trays to keep them organized.
Is it worth fixing a laptop?
If a laptop repair costs half as much as a new laptop—or more—consider getting a new one, especially if your machine is more than a few years old. If your computer is only 1 or 2 years old, it's probably worth fixing. At our stores, for instance, the average laptop repair is about $150.
Is a 4 year old laptop worth fixing?
Consumer Reports says spending money to repair a laptop five years old or older isn't worth it. Laptops three or four years old are a toss-up. Anything under two years is generally worth repairing.
How much does it cost to refurbish a computer?
Average Computer Repair CostsCost CategoryCost per HourAverage$60High$90Low$45Apr 28, 2021
Is it worth to repair motherboard?
Is Motherboard Worth Repairing? Your motherboard is definitely not worth repairing when we are talking about a laptop. For desktops, you can do it as long as the damage isn't extreme. Laptop motherboards have other components soldered onto them so those will have to be replaced during your repair.
How much does it cost to start a computer repair business?
You can start a mobile computer repair business from home for about $4,000. Costs include repair tools and equipment, a website, and your own compu...
How profitable is a computer repair business?
A computer business can be very profitable. Rates range from $60 to $80 per hour, and if you run your business from home, your ongoing expenses wil...
Do I need a license to start a computer repair business from home?
You will need to be certified as a computer technician, and you may need various licenses and permits at the state and local levels. Check with you...
How much can I charge for computer repair services?
Average rates for computer repair services range from $60 to $80 per hour. If you do after-hours emergency service you could charge more.
Is personal computer going anywhere?
It's a stable, in-demand service. Personal computers aren’t going anywhere. People of all ages and experience levels have computers they rely on for entertainment, banking, connecting with others, and more. Unfortunately, there is also a constant threat of viruses and other issues, especially for those who use their computer to go online. This creates a steady pool of clients.
Is it good to start a home computer repair business?
While there are many advantages to starting a home-based computer repair service, there are a few downsides, too. Attracting customers can be a challenge in the beginning, whether you’re cold-calling potential clients, touting your computer repair skills at tech fairs, or handing out flyers at small businesses and residences.
Can you subcontract repair work?
More elaborate and complicated repairs will require an investment in tools, hardware, software, and supplies, but you can subcontract this work out or charge a little more to repair serious issues.
Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You
Starting a computer repair business has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.
Step 2: Hone Your Idea
Now that you know what’s involved in starting a computer repair business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market.
Step 3: Brainstorm a Business Name
Your business name is your business identity, so choose one that encapsulates your objectives, services, and mission in just a few words. You probably want a name that’s short and easy to remember, since much of your business, and your initial business in particular, will come from word-of-mouth referrals.
Step 4: Create a Business Plan
Every business needs a plan. This will function as a guidebook to take your startup through the launch process and maintain focus on your key goals. A business plan also enables potential partners and investors to better understand your company and its vision:
Step 5: Register Your Business
Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.
Step 6: Register for Taxes
The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number, or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN.
Step 7: Fund your Business
Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:
How much does it cost to start a computer repair business?
The cost of operating a computer repair business will vary depending on the business model. A home-based repair business can cost as little as $2,000 to $3,000 to start up. A repair business with a brick-and-mortar storefront will cost closer to $10,000, but startup costs are still quite manageable.
What is computer repair?
Computer repair businesses help customers to both fix and maintain their computers. Often, these businesses are tasked with troubleshooting and fixing computer problems, but that work can extend to setting up and maintaining networks, offering in-home visits, and selling computers and accessories.
What is the target market for a computer repair business?
A computer repair business’s specific target market will depend on the business’ model and services offered. A business specializing in personal computer repair will market to local computer owners who invest in more expensive machines worth repairing. A business specializing in computer maintenance and networks to businesses may only market to businesses of a certain size or those that use a particular technology.
What is customer service in computer repair?
Customer service is a big aspect of the computer repair industry. A business owner will need to be able to provide prompt service and have computers ready on time. Great interpersonal skills are also important, especially since customers may be upset and frustrated with their computers before they even walk in the door.
How much has the computer repair industry declined?
As the industry’s revenue has declined, the number of businesses has also declined to 53,960.
Why is the electronics industry declining?
The decline in the industry’s revenue is due to a number of factors. As computers and other electronics are increasingly more affordable, fewer people are deciding to have their electronics replaced and are instead choosing to replace them when they break. Businesses have also followed this trend and often invest in high-quality equipment and get rid of old, outdated, or broken equipment.
Is cell phone repair the same as computer repair?
Experimax notes that computer repair increasingly crosses over with cell phone repair. As smartphones become more and more like computers, computer repair technicians are beginning to offer cell phone repair services, too. From screen repairs to virus removal and general troubleshooting, there are many opportunities for a technician to expand their services beyond just computers. And, because of the increasingly high cost of cell phones, customers are more likely to repair a $1,000 phone than they are to repair a $300 computer.
What is the best way to build a business?
You will probably have to do the marketing, sales, administrative and all other tasks by yourself in the beginning. Establishing a well-crafted, diversified marketing plan that incorporates a lot of different targeted activities is the only way to build your business and make sure your sales funnel is fed.
What skills do you need to be a successful businessman?
In order to succeed, you need to have a good balance of business, technical and also strong social skills, so you can best respond to the needs of your clients and build long-term relationships with them.
Do small businesses need an IT department?
All small businesses use computers and depend on them to work consistently, predictably and dependably. However, it is not cost effective for most small businesses to have their own in-house IT department. Still, they need someone like a computer repair business to help keep their IT assets up and running, so they can stay competitive in ...
What to consider before starting a business?
There are several things to consider before starting. First, consider whether to start this business inside your home or in a shop. A shop offers more credibility while working from your home, you’ll have fewer monthly costs to cover.
How much does it cost to start a business from home?
Entrepreneur Magazine estimates that a startup can range between $2,000 to $10,000. However, if you already have a lot of the equipment and planning to start from home, these expenses may be less.
How much does it cost to start a small computer repair business?
According to a detailed feasibility study carried out for the sake of this article, the estimated amount needed to start a small scale computer repair business is $9,000 . Medium scale is $56,000 and a big scale computer repair business at $130,000.
How to get the right pricing for a computer repair?
If you wish to get the right pricing in your computer repair business, you need to be able to understand the job you are being offered and analyse your means of performing them before charging your costumers. You’re also advised to inculcate all your expenses into your billings and remember not to make it outrageous.
Why do we need a computer repairer?
The extent at which the Internet and computer has taken over our world is a pure sign that every computer literate needs the services of a computer repairer when his/her computer malfunctions – be it hardware or software. People of all classes, sizes and age ranging from the business class down to the foetus in the womb (for scans etc) needs a computer repairer to be able to attend to this device known as a computer that has taken over our day to day activities.
Why is the computer repair industry so important?
The very nature of the Computer Repair industry, with its extraordinary rate of technological development, creates a constant need for businesses skilled in updating and advising customers on computer-related issues. With every individual armed with a computer and with almost all valuable information in our daily lives being stored in the computer, the computer selling business is booming and with this booming comes a need for repairers by users.
What is the best legal entity for a computer repair business?
For the purpose of this research, the LLC is the best legal entity for a computer repair business. An LLC is a “pass through” tax entity.
What is the importance of intellectual property in computer repair?
Intellectual property protection is very well needed in the computer repair business in form of patents protection, trademark and copyright protection, Technical Data and Computer Software Protection.
What does it mean to be a computer tech?
Becoming a computer technician is a great point of entry into the IT field, and computer hardware certifications will help demonstrate your knowledge and competency in maintaining computers, mobile devices, printers and more.
How to acquire clients for a business?
Marketing your business is always expensive. In order to acquire clients, you need to let them know you are out there. You might want to network with business owners in your community and establish a presence online with a website, social media campaign, and advertising .
Why do businesses contract with small businesses?
Contracting with small businesses, if you are able to do so, can provide a solid foundation of regular work for your business. If you do good work for them, they will be apt to keep using you and refer you to others.
What certifications are needed for networking?
Some common industry certifications are ACMT and CompTIA A+. It is helpful to have some networking certifications as well if you'd like to work on business networks. CompTIA Network+ and CCNP from Cisco are a few of the more common certifications.
How to get started with a marketing campaign?
You might consider creating an initial plan for getting started, with some goals to work towards, and deadlines to meet. Work to establish awareness of your services through a marketing campaign, and plan some actions to build up your client base.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of starting a business?
As with any venture, there are advantages and disadvantages. Initial costs, licensing, certifications, and relevant business knowledge should all be considered before starting your business.
Is it worth it to plan a business?
It may be worthwhile for you to brush up on some business practices, such as keeping records for accounting purposes and taxes and creating a plan . As the saying goes, a business failing to plan is a business planning to fail.
Do you need technical skills to be a good communicator?
It's not enough just to have the technical knowledge and skills. You'll need good communication skills. You have to be able to translate your actions in nontechnical terms for those that are not as technically inclined.
