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Running a Mobile Business
Do you want to expand your client base or maybe just start a low-cost business? Many entrepreneurs are now starting or expanding their business by using vans, trucks and recreational vehicles as their offices. Gone are the days when the only mobile businesses you would see were ice cream trucks and hot dog stands!
Some examples of mobile businesses that are now hitting the pavement include:
- veterinary and pet grooming services
- food vending and preparation services
- professional services (consulting, accounting, computer repair)
- personal care services (massage therapy, beauty services)
As with any business, it is always good for you to survey the competition in your area and ensure you have a business and operating plan in place. The key to making money in the beginning is to arrange jobs close to home to cut down on travel and fuel costs.
Here are some advantages to having a mobile business:
- easy office set up; low overhead costs
- flexible hours and days of operation
- less expensive than maintaining a store or office (that is rent, furniture, utilities)
- one-on-one contact with the client
- opportunities to expand and find niche markets
For further information on business start-up or business expansion, check out our sections Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Business (link no longer available) and Growth and Innovation.
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Call, or visit in person
1-888-576-4444
TTY:1-800-457-8466 (hearing impaired)Prince Edward Island Service Centre
Get help starting or growing your business.
Centre details ›
My situation is that I am a person with a disability and I would like to continue my efforts to grow a business as it should be.
I am an artist and have been working towards a business operation that is mobile with the hope of a transient traders document license to travel to many parts of Canada . ” to paint.” Yes to paint any & everything that this country has to offer , its beauty.
Have open shows in locations and markets .I am please to say that I have the honour of having my art all over the world with many private collectors.
I see myself as a good will ambassador to promote the culture experiences of our great heritage.
True , I am a person with a disability . All this means is I haven t given up.
Some how this medical situation has allowed me the opportunity to create and share what is beautiful in this our modern world.
From me to u- something happens when you do something . Thanks for sharing
By Alexander on July 19, 2010
I’d like to start a mobile food concession on Vancouver Island. Where do I get information on permits and other related requirements.
Thanks
Cindy
By Cindy on October 7, 2011
Hi Cindy,
First visit BizPaL.ca to find out about the industry regulations relevant the municipality where you wish your business to be located, then contact the city hall of that municipality to find out about any zoning restrictions for the location.
Comprehensive food safety training programs are available through FoodSafe BC. Courses are available face-to-face, online, and by correspondence, and are recognized throughout BC as meeting the requirements for food safety training for food service industry workers.
Good luck with your mobile concession!
By Canada Business on October 11, 2011
Hi there,
I would like to start gourmet food truck in Toronto Ont. Where do I start? I need information on how to apply for a permit and other related requirements.
Thanks
Jay
By Jay on December 22, 2011
Hi,
I have the following question. I want to start a mobile business in Canada. I am european and live in Europe.
My business is a low investment business. Also my dad already lives in Canada for over 35 years.
My question is: What are my possibilities to get this up and running? Mind you, i already have this same business in Europe.
Hope to see your reaction soon.
By Anthony on December 22, 2011
Hi Jay,
Your gourmet food truck will have many of the same requirements as a restaurant or catering business. To get you started you can use our Restaurant Start-Up Checklist and the How-to Start a Restaurant or Catering Business in Ontario guide.
Food service businesses, including gourmet food trucks, are regulated in Ontario. You can use our Permits and licenses search to find out what permits and licenses you will need. You can also contact the City of Toronto directly for information on Food Handler Certification, municipal licences, zoning requirements or permits that will be required to operate a mobile business in Toronto.
Depending on how you want to structure your business, additional regulations or registrations may apply. Our section on Starting a business and the Business Start-Up Guide may be useful to you.
For more information about starting your business, we invite you to call Canada Business Ontario toll free at 1-888-576-4444 (TTY 1-800-457-8466).
Best of luck with your business.
By Canada Business on January 6, 2012
Hello Anthony,
The Government of Canada’s Establish a Business page of the Invest in Canada website has information on topics such as trade agreements, taxation, business structure, and business immigration. You may want to contact a Government of Canada trade and investment advisor for more tailored advice. Located in more than 150 cities worldwide, a government advisor can provide you with strategic information and can help you make business contacts in Canada.
You can find information about licensing requirements for your type of business by visiting BizPaL, an online business permits and licences search tool.
Best of luck with your business!
By Canada Business on January 6, 2012
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