Are you planning to set up your own garage? Or maybe you want to improve your existing auto repair business?
Setting up a business is undoubtedly an exciting venture, but establishing a successful and viable garage can be challenging.
Setting up a garage requires careful planning, the right resources, and a comprehensive understanding of customer needs.
Getting the right tools and attracting customers are your two priorities, and you’ll want to avoid making common mistakes that can cause unnecessary setbacks.
As garage management professionals, we understand the common pitfalls many garage owners experience when setting up their businesses. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you start on the right foot.
In this article, we’ll cover five common mistakes you need to steer clear of when setting up your garage.
Technology plays an important role in the auto repair industry, and the right garage management software can make or break your business. When you’re setting up your garage, you need to choose a comprehensive garage management system that meets your specific needs.
We understand that high-quality garage software is a big expense— but it’s certainly worth it. The right garage management software can help you save time and engage with your customers more efficiently.
It’s a good idea to select software that can easily integrate with your existing systems, has user-friendly interfaces, and can scale as you grow. Research software online to compare options and find the best solution for your needs. The ideal management software should help make your everyday tasks quicker and easier.
TechMan’s garage management software is bursting with features to help you manage your garage more efficiently and improve productivity. Contact us to request a demo now.
When you’re setting up your garage, make sure to consider the placement and quantity of electrical outlets.
A garage space involves the use of many tools and equipment that require reliable and easily accessible power sources. You’ll need numerous outlets in the right places for your power tools, diagnostic equipment, and other machinery.
Setting up a garage with insufficient outlets in poorly thought-out locations can be frustrating, meaning you need to use extension cords, which pose potential safety hazards. When you’re setting up your garage, you need to think about the layout of your workspace and the number of tools that will be used simultaneously.
Don’t forget to plan for sufficient outlets in customer-facing areas as well, like the reception. Planning for enough outlets from the beginning can help you create a more efficient and safer work environment.
When you’re setting up a garage workshop, you might be tempted to save money and go for a smaller space. But this decision may limit your potential for growth in the future and could even impact your workshop performance.
As your business grows, so will your storage needs, for tools, vehicles, or even customers. A small workspace can make for cramped working conditions and delayed repairs.
When setting up your garage or upgrading your existing garage space, you need to plan for future growth. Think about the number of vehicles you want to service at the same time, space for new equipment, and room for employees and customers to move about comfortably.
Investing in a garage with adequate space allows you to avoid the inconvenience of having to operate in cramped spaces or relocate altogether.
Good quality lighting is incredibly important for precision and safety in your garage. Improper garage lighting can cause your mechanics to make mistakes, miss car issues, and work less productively.
Whether you’re working under the bonnet of a car or crossing the shop floor, you and your team need to see what you’re doing. When you’re setting up your garage, consider using a blend of natural and artificial lighting to create well-lit workstations.
LED lights are an affordable and energy-efficient option providing bright and even lighting. Incorporate large light fixtures for the main garage space as well as small fixtures in targeted areas, like storage shelves.
With good lighting, you’ll be able to set up a safe and more useful garage workshop.
When you’re just starting your business, it’s easy to focus on your immediate needs. But failing to plan for the future is a mistake that can hinder the growth of your business.
With technology constantly evolving and customer expectations changing, you need to be flexible. Investing in scalable systems is now essential if you want your garage to succeed.
Think about how trends in the automotive industry may affect your business in years to come. You also need to consider your long-term goals, like expanding your services, growing your team, or upgrading your equipment.
By anticipating and planning for future needs when setting up your garage, you can ensure it thrives for years to come.
Avoiding these common pitfalls when setting up your garage is the key to thriving in this competitive industry.
At TechMan, our all-in-one garage management software helps you streamline garage operations and optimise your workflow.
Our software is equipped with a range of innovative and helpful features, such as personnel management, reporting, accounting, and service assistance, to help you monitor all aspects of your garage services.
With our garage management system, you can enhance your customer relationships and deliver an exceptional service every time.
Click here to learn more about our services or contact us to request a demo now.
Explore TechMan in real-time in a working garage and see how our extensive integrations can simplify your operations and save hours of time every day.
