Looking for a profitable business idea with steady demand? Events happen every single day, and they all need one thing: tables and chairs. If you’re researching how to start a table and chair rental business, you’re already thinking ahead. This market isn’t just big, it’s growing fast.
$15.23 billion! That’s what the event rental industry was worth in 2023, climbing 11.4% per year. Why? People would rather rent than buy and store event furniture. From intimate backyard weddings to massive corporate galas, the need for rentals keeps rising.
If you’re ready to turn this demand into your business, this guide will cover everything: inventory, pricing, marketing, and getting clients. Let’s get started!
7 Steps to Start a Table and Chair Rental Business
Starting your own rental business can be a great way to earn income. If you’re thinking about starting a table and chair rental business, here are seven simple steps to get you going:
Step 1: Find Your Niche and Target Market
Image Credit: Image by Freepik
Starting any business, like a table and chair rental business, begins with good planning. A clear vision and strong organization are way to making sure your business grows and stays profitable over time.
Draft a Solid Business Plan
Your business plan is your guide to success. It lays the foundation for your business and keeps you focused on reaching your goals. But where do you start? Be sure to include the essentials: your objectives, estimated costs, and revenue projections.
Budget for all your startup expenses, like chairs, tables, delivery vehicles, and marketing to attract customers. And don’t overlook ongoing costs like maintenance, storage, replacements, and fuel.
A detailed business plan keeps you organized and is a must-have for securing funding or loans.
Budget for Success
Budgeting is super important for getting started and staying on track. For a small table and chair rental business, you’re probably looking at around $10,000–$25,000 to cover must-haves like furniture, linens, and decor. But what if your business grows faster than expected?
Depending on your inventory, location, and size, costs could go all the way up to $100,000.
And what about the unexpected stuff like repairs or stocking up for busy seasons? A well-planned budget will help you handle those surprises, keep cash flow steady, and get through both slow and busy times. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but having a plan makes all the difference.
Step 2. Market Research
Image Credit: Image by Freepik
Every market’s unique, so it’s key to spend some time researching your local area before starting your table and chair rental business. Good research helps you figure out what people are looking for and makes it easier to stand out from the competition.
Get to Know Your Market and Target Audience
Like any other business, you need to know your audience and the market for this rental business, too. Who are you trying to serve? Is it big corporate events with tons of guests, or maybe small, stylish weddings? Or even budget-friendly parties?
Once you figure that out, you can adjust your inventory, set competitive prices, and create marketing that resonates.
For example, wedding clients are probably all about style and looks, while corporate clients are more focused on reliability and quantity. When you know your audience, it’s so much easier to stand out and connect with the right people.
Keeping up with industry trends can also help you carve out your niche. For example, sustainable rentals and themed setups are becoming popular right now, and they’re both great ways to attract the right crowd.
When you understand your audience and stay ahead of trends, it’s easier to offer value, connect with the right people, and grow your business.
Set the Right Prices
Your pricing should make sense for your customers while still covering your costs. But how do you strike that balance? A break-even analysis can help you figure out how to price your rentals so they’re competitive and still make you money. Try offering a variety of packages to fit different needs.
For smaller events, budget-friendly options are always a win, but premium packages? They’re perfect for fancy weddings or corporate events. Make sure you’re clear about what each package includes. And also consider adding extras like delivery, setup, or décor to boost your income.
We’ll dive into pricing strategies more in the upcoming sections, so stay tuned.
Step 3. Acquiring and Managing Your Inventory
Image Credit: Image by Freepik
Your inventory is the backbone of your business. It’s what sets you apart and keeps your customers happy. Picking durable, versatile pieces means they’ll work for all kinds of events. More flexibility, more value; who wouldn’t want that?
Choose Quality Equipment
Invest in sturdy chairs and tables that not only look great but can handle plenty of use. Choose materials that are lightweight and strong, so they’re easy to move around when setting up.
You could also add things like linens, chair covers, and table décor to your inventory. Clients love having stylish options to choose from!
Offering more choices doesn’t just impress your customers; it also helps you grow your business to handle all kinds of events, from weddings to corporate parties. If buying everything at once feels too much, consider leasing or financing instead. Leasing can be a lifesaver for startups, giving you what you need without a huge upfront cost.
Just be sure to think about what your customers want most and what will give you the best return before making any big purchases.
Build Strong Supplier Relationships
Take a little time to compare suppliers when sourcing inventory, it pays off! Do some research, read reviews, and don’t hesitate to ask for samples before committing to a big order.
Check out local and online options, get a few quotes, and see if they offer warranties. Comparing prices can help you score great deals on essentials like tables and chairs. And don’t be afraid to negotiate. Ask about bulk discounts or better pricing. It never hurts to ask!
Building good relationships with reliable suppliers can go a long way. With the right ones, you’ll get better deals, clear terms, and a steady, reliable supply chain. A great supplier isn’t just helpful; they’re a real asset to your business.
Organize and Store Smartly
Good storage is how you keep your inventory safe and stay organized. Are you keeping your chairs and tables in the right spot? Make sure they’re in a clean, dry place to avoid issues with moisture, dust, or pests. Using shelves or racks can help save space and make it easier to find what you need.
Label everything clearly to avoid mix-ups and speed up packing. Running out of space? Try sub-renting or teaming up with other rental businesses to share storage. A neat, secure system not only saves time but also makes setups quicker and smoother for clients, leaving a great impression.
Taking care of your high-quality items and storing them smartly means your inventory will always be ready.
Keep Your Inventory in Top Shape
Regular maintenance keeps your items looking great and working well. Get into the habit of checking for scratches, stains, or damage. Taking care of your equipment keeps customers happy and prevents future headaches.
Want to make it easier? Tools like RentMy can help you track inventory, schedule cleanings, and set up reminders for repairs. When your gear is in great shape, it’s always ready to roll when you need it!
One tool to track, manage, and protect your rental stock.
- Free trial
- No credit card required
Step 4. Pricing Strategies
Image Credit: Image by Freepik
Smart pricing helps you earn more while keeping your customers happy and loyal. Here are three simple and effective strategies that can help you boost your rental business’s ROI:
Offer Bundled Deals
Who doesn’t love a good deal? Group your products or services into bundles to give your customers more value.
For example, you can offer packages like “Table + Chair Setups” or “Tables + Chairs + Linens” at a slight discount compared to renting each item separately. Bundles make things easier for your customers and can boost your average order size. Plus, it’s a simple way to create more value without overcomplicating things. Give it a try!
Set Competitive Prices
Ever wonder what your competitors are charging and how it stacks up? Checking out their pricing can give you a better sense of market trends. It’s a smart way to figure out how to set rates that keep your customers happy while still protecting your bottom line.
Charge too much, and you might scare people off. Too low? Your services could seem undervalued or worse, eat into your profits. So, find the right balance by considering quality, demand, and how customers perceive value.
Adjust for Peak Seasons and Slows
Seasonal trends can greatly influence the performance of your rental business, so planning is the solution. During busy times like weddings, holidays, or graduation season, think about raising your rates a bit to match the higher demand.
However, communicate any price changes clearly so customers know what to expect.
Also, stay ahead of party rental trends by keeping stocked on popular items like stylish tables, folding chairs, and specialty seating so you’re ready to go. Start marketing early by running promotions and teaming up with local event planners to lock in bookings.
During slower months, keep things moving by offering discounts or special deals and working with planners to keep your rentals in circulation year-round. Staying flexible and tuned into seasonal trends will help you build customer loyalty and boost your revenue.
Step 5. Legal and Insurance Requirements
Image Credit: Image by Freepik
Set your business up for success and be ready for whatever comes your way! Taking care of legal stuff and getting the right insurance are simple steps that can help build a strong foundation for the future.
Get the Right Business Licenses
Wondering if you need a license to rent chairs and tables? In most cases, yes! You’ll likely need a business license, resale permits for taxes, and liability insurance. Liability insurance is a big deal since it protects you if there’s any damage or injuries during events.
Make sure to check your local rules, file the right paperwork, and get everything squared away before starting. This could mean getting a general business license or permits for specific services like renting event equipment. If you’re handling deliveries or transportation, there might be extra steps to follow.
Skipping any of this stuff could lead to fines or, worse, shutting down your business. Nobody wants that. Rules can vary a lot depending on where you are, so take the time to double-check everything.
Protect Your Business with Insurance
A good insurance plan is your backup when things don’t go as planned. General liability insurance covers you for risks like accidents, property damage, or lawsuits, whether you’re running events or making deliveries. And if your business relies on vehicles, the right auto insurance will keep them protected while they’re out on the road.
Depending on your line of work, you might need extra coverage, like insurance for lost or damaged gear. An insurance agent can help you figure out your risks and find a plan that’s perfect insurance for your rental business.
Step 6. Customer Service and Operations
Image Credit: Image by Freepik
Creating a great customer experience is how you turn first-time clients into loyal, repeat customers. Taking care of your customers doesn’t just make them happy; it helps your brand grow through glowing reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations.
Make Communication Easy
Make things easy for your clients. What’s the first thing they’re going to do before renting chairs and tables? Ask questions or try to clarify something. A professional website with a simple, user-friendly inquiry and booking form can help avoid confusion.
Make sure other contact options like email, phone, and social media are active and checked often. Quick, friendly replies build trust and show clients you respect their time. For those times when your team isn’t available, consider using chatbots or automated tools to handle FAQs.
Build a Dependable Team
Your team is the heart of great customer service. But how do you ensure they’re the right fit?
Hire people who are friendly, professional, and great communicators. Ones who can deliver furniture on time and set up event layouts without an issue.
And when things go wrong, as they sometimes do, make sure they stay calm and handle challenges like pros.
A well-organized logistics team makes sure deliveries are accurate and on time and leaves your clients stress-free and happy. Isn’t that what every business wants?
Offer Flexible Delivery Options
Clients come with all sorts of delivery needs. What if someone needs a same-day setup for a last-minute event? Or maybe they’re asking for after-hours deliveries? Being flexible with timing can set you apart.
Just make sure you’re upfront about any extra fees for special requests because, seriously, who likes surprise costs? Showing you’re willing to adapt to their needs proves you genuinely care about making their event a success.
Focus on great service and keeping things running smoothly. You’ll leave a lasting impression that keeps clients coming back and spreading the word about you!
Step 7. Marketing & Advertising
Image Credit: Image by creativeart on Freepik
Efficient marketing can help your chair and table rental business stand out in a competitive market. With the right strategy, you can attract more clients, build trust, and keep them coming back for more.
Use Social Media and SEO
Social media is the perfect way to highlight and promote your business! Set up professional profiles on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, and make sure your branding looks seamless across all of them.
Share high-quality photos of your rentals in action, whether a dreamy wedding, a polished corporate event, or a laid-back backyard party.
Use captions to highlight the style, quality, and versatility of your inventory. And hey, don’t just post and ghost. What’s the point if you’re not engaging? Respond to messages and comments promptly to maintain engagement.
SEO is another awesome tool to drive more people to your website. Write blogs with helpful tips and include keywords like “starting a table and chair rental business” or “profits in the table and chair rental industry.” People love helpful content!
Share useful content like event planning advice or inspiring success stories to not only improve your website’s ranking but also build trust and establish yourself as an industry pro.
Build Local Partnerships
Building local connections can work great for your business! Partner with event planners, venues, florists, and caterers to swap referrals and promote each other’s services.
Check out local events, expos, or community gatherings to meet new people and potential customers. You could also offer package deals or referral discounts to make partnerships easier and bring in more bookings.
Simplify Online Bookings
Making bookings easy keeps your customers happy and saves you time. How often do your clients struggle with clunky systems or long wait times? With tools like RentMy, they can quickly check availability, request quotes, and pay online. All in just a few clicks!
Make your booking process super easy, and don’t forget to let people know about it in your marketing. Highlight features like automated reminders and real-time inventory updates. A smoother system means a better experience for everyone!
Highlight Customer Reviews
You’ve probably heard it a million times: “Happy customers are your best marketing tool”. It’s true!
Show off those amazing reviews from past clients on your website, social media, or even in print. Add some before-and-after pics or video testimonials to keep it personal and relatable.
Great reviews build trust and make it much easier for new clients to choose your business.
Simplify Operations for Your Table and Chair Rental Business
Running a table and chair rental business means managing inventory, deliveries, payments, and customer inquiries, all while trying to find time to grow your business. RentMy simplifies operations to help make this easier.
With automated inventory management, you can track stock in real time and prevent overbookings. Delivery coordination and route planning ensure rentals arrive on time and in good condition.
Rental order management tools let you track payments, sort overdue orders, and access full order histories, all in one system. Digital signature capture eliminates paperwork and simplifies the agreement process with customers.
Customer management tools improve communication and invoicing, while dynamic pricing helps adjust rates during busy seasons. RentMy’s AI Assistant can also create product images and SEO-friendly listings to enhance your online presence.
RentMy’s event rental software saves time, reduces errors, and improves your workflow so you can focus on running and growing your business.
Save time, reduce mistakes, and grow faster.
- Free trial
- No credit card required
Final Thoughts
There you have it! We’ve covered the nuts and bolts of how to start a table and chair rental business, from setup to scaling. Now you’ve got the know-how to start and grow a rental business that’s all about convenience, quality, and making a profit.
Running a rental company isn’t just about stacking chairs, it’s about keeping things running smoothly, making customers happy, and getting the most out of every booking. With the right tools, you can skip the troubles of double bookings, inventory messes, and pricing confusion
Ready to hit the ground running? RentMy makes it simple with automated bookings, inventory tracking, and easy customer management. Give it a try for free and see what you think!
FAQs
Rental rates can vary depending on things like location, the type of event, and the quality of the equipment. On average, wedding reception tables in the U.S. can start at around $8 each, and chairs start at about $1 each. Of course, prices might change depending on demand or any package deals you go for.
Absolutely! There’s always a steady demand for event furnishings, which makes it a pretty profitable business. The way to do well is to offer great-quality inventory, dependable service, and prices that stay competitive.
Definitely! The constant demand for temporary furniture in events, corporate setups, and home staging makes furniture rental a great business opportunity. Profitability depends on good planning, quality inventory, and effective marketing.
Yes! Profitability depends on local demand, competitive pricing, and efficient logistics. A well-managed rental business can generate steady income.
It depends on where you’re located. Some places need you to have a business license or special permits. Be sure to check with your local government or small business office to stay on the safe side.
