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?
Bounce houses rent for anywhere from $85.00/day on the west coast to $250.00 & up in other parts of the country. Here in Indianapolis, we rent ours for around $225.00 for four to six hours. Soif you charge $150.00 for your rental, you can make an extra $300.00 per week in income.
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.
Insurance is the biggest cost. Although it seems to get cheaper when more units are added, start up costs are tough. Bounce House purchase prices average around $1500.00 but insurance will be around $750.00. That means your first year start up is going to cost around $2500.00. If you rent your unit for $150.00, you’ll still have paid for your costs in less than 20 rentals. And, of course, the more you charge, the quicker your investment will pay for itself.
Moonbounces aren’t the only thing you can rent. We started five years ago with two moonbounces and now have over fifty interactive games. Jousts, Giant Slides, Obstacle courses, video games, casino equipment and fun foods. So, as you can see the business will grow as large as you want it to. About the only way to fail is to purchase the equipment and leave it in your garage. Inflatable moonbounces and other inflatables are their own best advertisement.
Here are a few tips for starting your business.
-Find out from your state and local board what you need to start a bounce rental business. There might be restrictions on what you can do.
-Check on suppliers. You can look on the web for “bounce house” or “inflatable games”.
-Ask the suppliers to give you insurance info. Do NOT make a purchase until you’ve secured insurance.
-As soon as you’ve secured your insurance, order your unit(s)
-You have plenty to do while waiting for equipment. Design fliers and business cards. Get your phone number and Domain name. Start on a website. Tell ALL your friends 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.
-Now for the fun part. Inflate your new unit and get familar with it. Let the neighborhood kids play. You want your unit seen so people will want to rent it.
It’s hard to believe it’s so easy. These are broad tips but the start up isn’t a whole lot rougher than this. Once you follow the steps, you’ll be selling FUN, and you’ll be making a profit! What a great business!
Cheryl Pierce has been in the rental industry for almost 20 years. Her complete e-book Start a Bounce House Business has helped many bounce house owners to create a profitable business. For more info also visit Party Rental Help from PartyZone
