Body shop owners are responsible for keeping track of its operations, while providing good service. Operating an auto body shop can provide a sense of pride with proper planning, such as finances, licenses, insurance, hiring workers and shop safety.

Body Shop Financial Management

An auto body shop's ability to maintain financial control is required for business survival. Learn bookkeeping skills to keep track of your shop's finances, by attending a local community college or adult school. Some of these classes teach you about payroll, accounts payable and accounts receivable. Another option is hiring a bookkeeper for your auto body business. Check with the local Chamber of Commerce for qualified job applicants. Or, speak with your experienced business associates. Narrow down your list of bookkeepers and interview each candidate to those familiar with auto body shop terminology. Some auto body terminology includes vehicle status, vendor management, and auto part inventory. Contact each applicant's list of references.

Body Shop License and Insurance

Contact your local and state agencies to make sure you comply with auto body shop regulations. Once your state has explained your licensing requirements, make sure you gather the proper documents and submit them. Research your insurance options by contacting insurance brokers and reviewing each proposal. Speak with your legal and financial planners about insuring your body shop. Your advisors can help you review your options for your insurance coverages and make occasional adjustments.

Hiring Workers and Shop Safety

Hire qualified applicants for your auto body shop. You may choose to hire permanent auto body technicians or you may choose to contact an agency for pre-screened applicants. Ask the agency about interviewing criteria and drug testing procedures. Create a safer environment for your body shop to reduce employee injuries and possible workers compensation claims. Eye injuries and falls are two common safety problems. Advise employees to use eye protection, wear durable shoes, and clean up spills. Reduce auto body shop pollution with minor changes, such as evaluating the cleanliness of your shop such as the reception and the vehicle storage areas. Learn about hazardous and non-hazardous waste and how to dispose of these materials.

Source:

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation: Compliance Guide for Auto Body Shops

Montana State University: Auto Body Pollution Prevention Guide

More Information:

I Auto Body Parts: Body Shop Safety