How to Start Your Own Vending Machine Business

If you are looking to be self-employed, starting a vending machine business may be a great way to turn a consistent profit and secure your financial future. You get to choose your location, what items to sell and how much you are going to sell your products for. What are some items to consider if you are interested in starting a vending business?

How to Start Your Own Vending Machine Business

The first step to forming a vending company or any other type of business is to get the required permits. You may need to incorporate your company as well as get authority from the state to collect sales taxes. Once you have filed all the necessary paperwork, it is now time to start acquiring inventory as well as finding a location to place your first machine. If you decide to hire employees or partner with independent contractors, don't forget to withhold taxes and file quarterly or yearly reports with the appropriate taxing authorities.

How to Start a Vending Machine Business That Is Profitable

Your first big decision as a vending business owner is what type of machine you will buy and whether it is new or used. While a majority of vending machines sell soda and candy, others are designed to sell hot foods such as soup or pizza. To determine what type of machine to buy, consider your target market and what they are most likely to buy.

If you are a new business owner with limited financial resources, you may want to look for a second hand machine as they will cost less. Spending less upfront can help improve profit margins in your first few months of operations. However, it is critical that you do your homework by searching for useful information online that may help you make the best decision for your business.

The next big decision is where to place your machine. Ideally, you will put it somewhere that has a lot of foot traffic and people who need quick drink or snack options. Waiting rooms and hotels make prime locations because they may be open on a 24/7 basis. Schools and office buildings are also good places to install a vending machine.

How to Start a Vending Business Where Established Vendors May Already Exist

It is always harder to start a company in an area that may have high levels of competition. However, there may be tactics that you can use to differentiate yourself from other vendors and make your machine the more appealing option. For instance, you may want to sell snacks that don't have sugar in them or choose to sell energy shots and drinks if others don't offer them. As with any other business, being willing to fill a niche or otherwise remedy an inefficiency in the market is the best way to earn customers and make a profit.

Don't Forget About Maintenance

Just like any other type of machine, a vending machine may malfunction from time to time. Therefore, it may be a good idea to buy a screwdriver or a pair of pliers just in case something jams or otherwise won't work like it should. For just a few dollars, you will always be ready to keep emergencies at bay and your customers happy. 

Working for yourself can be a dream opportunity if you are willing to capitalize on it. As a vending machine owner, you can set your own hours, keep most of the profits that your company generates and possibly make money even while you sleep. If you want to and are good enough, you can own as many machines as you want, which means your earning potential may be theoretically limitless both now and into the future.