Have you ever been to a party or event that had a bounce house? The kids were probably having a blast. Maybe you've even rented a bounce for your own party. But have you given any thought to the profit that can be had with your own bounce house business?
You can find bounce houses for around $75.00 a day on the West Coast. The same bounce will probably rent for over $250.00 on the East Coast. Here in the heart of the country we're more in the middle. Generally a bounce will bring $225.00 for a 6 hour event. So, if you use a more average amount of $150.00, you can still have an extra $300.00 per week to pay your bills.
Like any business, you're going to have some expenses. A bounce delivery requires a truck or a small trailer. You'll need extension cords, business cards, insurance, dollys and other small business supplies. Most rental company owners start by doing deliveries and bookings themselves so they won't have a lot of additional labor costs. The real joy of this business is that you work when you want to work, and if you feel like taking time off....just don't take any bookings for that day. But, the downside is that if you want to make a great deal of income, you're going to have to be available when people want to rent. And that's generally on the weekend.
Your most expensive cost still be insurance. You can save on insurance by purchasing more units, but many people want to start with just one. One bounce house will run around $1500.00 and the insurance for that unit will cost about $750.00. If you rent your unit for $150.00 you pay off your investment in less than 20 rentals. Of course, you can pay it off faster if you charge more. However, if you're in California it will probably take you longer to pay off the original investment.
You might be surprised to find that there is a lot more to rentals than bounce houses. Our initial start up five years ago was two bounces but within just a short time we have grown to over 50 inflatable and interactive games. You can find giant slides, obstacle courses, casino tables, Bungee Runs, Toddler Games and fun foods. The business actually will grow as large as you want it to. As long as you get the equipment out in front of people, you'll be booking rentals. The units themselves are their own advertisements.
You can get started in a bounce business by following a few easy steps.
-Check with your local & state boards on what's needed to start a bouncehouse rental business. You might find restrictions on what you can do.
-Find out about suppliers. Search the internet for "moonwalks" or "interactive inflatable games"
-Request insurance information from possible suppliers. One thing you don't want to do is purchase your units without having your insurance.
-Once you have insurance locked up, place your order.
-While you're waiting for your equipment, get some fliers made up, business cards and a dedicated phone number. Tell EVERYONE about your new business.
-DON'T book your units until they're in your possession. Disappointing your first customers won't be a good way to start your business.
-The day your equipment arrives is so exciting. Make sure though that you fully inspect your equipment for damages before your delivery driver leaves. And also check to make sure you've received everything.
-It's so much fun to blow up your unit the first time. The neighborhood kids will want too play and you need to let them. Watch them have fun and learn all about your new bounce. Remember, the more people see it, the more people will rent it.
It looks easy, doesn't it? And it really is. You'll be making money by selling fun. Could any business owner ask for more?
Cheryl Pierce has been in the party business for almost 20 years. Her complete e-book Start a Bouncehouse Business has helped many bounce house owners to create a profitable company. For more info also visit Party Rental Help from PartyZone |
