How To Start A Locksmith Business In South Africa
What is Locksmith ?
Locksmithing is the science and art of making and defeating locks. Locksmithing is a traditional trade and in many countries requires completion of an apprenticeship.
How To Start A Locksmith Business In South Africa
1.Find out the legal requirements for your state.
Some states require bonding, licensing, insurance and certification. Requirements vary from state to state. Even if they’re not required, bonding, licensing and certifications add credibility and help to protect you from liability. Your local government or state Attorney General can tell you how to start a locksmith business legally.
2.Get locksmith training.
A formal education isn’t necessary, but vocational classes are available; these could help establish credibility and strengthen your skills. Even if you don’t choose formal training, it will take some time to learn to use the various tools and lock pick sets that you will need. Books, manuals and practice kits are some sources for training.
3.Practice your skills.
One of the most challenging skills is learning to pick various locks. Many lock pick sets offer practice locks to work on. Another job that takes practice is installation. Install deadbolts and other locks on your home, and volunteer to do it for friends and family to learn.
4.Choose what areas to specialize in.
Home lockouts, vehicle lockouts, and residential installations are some categories. The one you choose determines your marketing efforts and the type of equipment you need. Consider working as a car locksmith either way, since this generates the most calls and income.
5.Purchase tools and supplies.
These vary by the type of work you’ll do. Some of the equipment you’ll need includes a generator, key duplicator, code cutting machine, re-keying kits, lock picks sets and lockout kits. Buy from established manufacturers. Read reviews and get advice from established locksmiths to choose the right equipment.
6.Find a location.
You can work out of a home office or rent office space. Your office should have enough room to store equipment and a computer for handling billing, marketing and finances.
7.Get a vehicle.
A work van is a good choice for holding equipment and adding credibility to your business. Add signage to your vehicle with painting, vinyl decals or magnetic signs. Make sure your phone number is displayed prominently.
8.Decide whether to hire employees.
If business gets busy, you may need additional locksmiths for late night or overnight coverage. Look for employees who are bonded and experienced. You may also choose to hire an office manager and dispatchers. A third party dispatch center is another option for getting calls.
9.Set prices and a financial plan.
Since locksmith equipment can be expensive, budget for purchases, and remember to include the overall costs when setting prices.
10.Build word of mouth advertising.
Start by doing jobs for family, friends and neighbors and get referrals.
11.Network with local business owners as well as other locksmiths.
Join groups like the Associated Locksmiths of South Africa to get training, keep up with trends and news, and learn how to start a locksmith business.
12.Advertise your business.
An ad in the Yellow Pages or local directory is essential, since people will often be looking for you when they are in an emergency and locked out of their car or home. Make sure you are listed on Google Places, Mapquest and other online directories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
How do I become a locksmith in South Africa?
Supervised, hands-on training with an emphasis on manual skills is required to become a certificated locksmith. To achieve this, aspiring locksmiths are required to attend accredited and registered training schools, which can be found in most provinces within South Africa.
Are locksmith businesses profitable in South Africa?
Because it’s a low-overhead business, most of what you charge is profit. A one-person locksmithing business can clean between R40,000 and R60,000 per year. However, if you employ other locksmiths, there’s no reason you can’t make a million dollars or more.
What do I need to start a key making business in South Africa?
There’s a lot of legal requirements that all businesses have to go through before they can officially open up shop. For a key-cutting business, you’ll need to get a business license from your local government. You’ll also need to register your business with the IRS and get an employer identification number.
How do I become a locksmith for my car in South Africa?
Candidates are required to undergo an approved and accredited training program before embarking on a career as a locksmith. The South African Qualifications Authority approves various locksmith courses to make sure that it lives up to the specific industry requirements.
Why do locksmiths charge so much in South Africa?
Locksmiths are expensive because they have the technical training and expertise to do jobs that most other people can’t do. They’re also available 24/7 which means they can charge extra if it’s outside of normal business hours.
Do locksmiths take credit cards in South Africa?
If you pay with a check or cash, you are out of luck unless you go to court. Shady locksmith companies will always advertise that they take credit cards, but once they get there they will tell you they will not accept credit card payments and usually demand nothing but cold, hard, cash.
Why locksmith is called locksmith in South Africa?
The word comes from lock and smith, from the Old English smið, “one who works with metal.” Definitions of locksmith. someone who makes or repairs locks. type of: smith. someone who works at something specified.
Is locksmithing a good trade in South Africa?
Locksmithing is an excellent career choice for people who like to work with their hands and their brain. It’s a flexible career that lends itself to both creativity and logic. If you like puzzles and problem-solving, you will thoroughly enjoy a career as a locksmith.
Did blacksmiths make keys in South Africa?
Locksmiths used a forge and anvil, and blacksmiths knew how to make simple locks and keys.