How to Start a Small Car-Valet Business

A car-valet business provides the service of secure automobile parking for guests. The car-valet service business may also include such additional services as automobile cleaning. The initial resources needed to start a car-valet parking business may be as simple as a driver's license and proper vehicle insurance. This business can be marketed directly to charity groups, professional associations, event and wedding planners, and trade show organizers. Convention centers and hotels are great resources for securing business. The following provides steps to starting a car-valet business.

Purchase a car-valet service franchise. This will provide immediate business resources and support, as well as marketing and advertising advantages. But be cautious. It is best to consult a lawyer before entering into a car-valet service franchise agreement to insure that you understand all of the potential risks under the contract.

Know the competition and their demographics. This provides a heads-up on under-served areas of the local market. Do not be afraid to contact a local car-valet company owner. Depending on your approach and his disposition, he may be willing to offer some valuable advice.

Set up an independent business by securing professional uniforms, road signs, valet tickets, business cards, and brochures. The reputation of the car-valet service business will be derived from a client's perception of the level of professionalism of the business and on contact with valets. This will determine if a new client will become a repeat client, and whether future referrals will be made.

Secure the requirements of local and state regulators for a car-valet business. In addition to business licenses this may also include certain types of insurance, such as third-party and liability insurance, and in some states a specialized license for professional drivers, sometimes called a chauffeur's license.

Be prepared to handle all forms of payments. This will depend on whether an assignment is a private or public project. If the car-valet parking service project provides that payment is secured directly from the drivers, in addition to cash, consider investing in mobile debit and credit card machines.

Obtain a reliable computer set-up to organize the business and employee contacts, process correspondence and marketing material, and maintain the business calendar. Internet access will also be important as a professional website presence and email are essential for most businesses operating in the marketplace today.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy