Classic Kombi Camper hire business
Submitted: Monday, Nov 05, 2012 at 05:05
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Blush155
Hi there,
I know a similar thread has been done a couple of years ago but I need to start a new one as I need help and advice.
My husband wants to buy a 1970's VW Kombi camper, I have wanted to set up my own business for a while so thought this would be a great business idea. I know there are other companies out there but I have looked into it and I think the iconic VW would make an awesome way to travel up and down the East coast.
The main cost will be the purchase of the vehicle but we are going to outlay for this anyway. Who would I look at for insuring the drivers? Do I need any licences etc, how do we take deposits, make the t's & C's legal blah blah.
I had a very successful business in the Uk before we moved back to Oz, I set up a Hair,Nail and Beauty salon right in the middle of the recession and made it work, I am like a dog with a bone and want to make this a success but dont know
where to start.
Fellow
Explorers, please guide me!
Reply By: Jarse - Monday, Nov 05, 2012 at 15:57
Monday, Nov 05, 2012 at 15:57
Hi there,
I've owned and restored several Kombi Campers over the years. The last one I sold in 2002 for around $8000.00 (it was immaculate). Wish I'd kept it!
The first problem you will face is finding a decent example. Anything resembling the condition of the one I sold will now fetch in excess of $25k. I kid you not! I've seen buckets of junk (not worth restoring) for over $10k asking price. The increasing rarity of these things is driving the prices through the roof, even for rusty old bombs.
They can be expensive to get parts for (if you can still get them, some bits are no longer available, or can take ages to ship to Oz).
The engines have some weaknesses, such as cracking blocks in magnesium-cased examples, and cylinder head problems in most engines.
I'd love to get another one for a project, but people are putting too high a price on nostalgia IMO :)
Sorry I can't help you with the setup questions, but I'm sure there are other business people here who can.
AnswerID:
497954
Follow Up By: Blush155 - Tuesday, Nov 06, 2012 at 08:11
Tuesday, Nov 06, 2012 at 08:11
Hi there Jarse
I have to admit I don't know anything about them but my business partner has been an avid fan for years! We will be looking for a specialist to update and sort them out before they go for rental.
We have spent ages looking at the ones available on the net and you are sooo right!
Where are you based? We are in north of
Brisbane and like I said will be looking for someone to help with maintenance.
I really appreciated the time you spent replying, it will be a risk hiring out these classics because of potential problems.
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