Most important equipment for self-employment in the trades sector

The step into self-employment in the trades sector is exciting and requires good preparation. In addition to planning and strategy, the right initial equipment is essential so that you can start productively right away. That is why here is a list of which tools, machines and aids are a must-have and how you can save time and money with additional technical aids.

1. Tools: The basis for your work

‍The choice of tools depends on your trade, but a few basics are of course essential:

• Hand tools: Hammer, screwdriver, pliers, folding rule and so on... that's where you know best what is always needed.
• Electrical tools: Drills, cordless screwdrivers and angle grinders are essential for many craft sectors. If possible, invest in durable and powerful models.
• Special tools: Depending on your area of expertise, specific tools may be required, such as tile cutters for tilers or planers for carpenters.

💡 Tip: Compare different brands and models before you buy. Quality pays off in the long term, as fewer repairs and replacements are required. Perhaps you have already had good experience with certain brands during your training or in the company. Craftsmen often stick with items that have already proven their worth.

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2. Machines and equipment: efficiency through technology

‍Modern machines make work easier and ensure precise results. Depending on the trade, these are essential:

• Stationary machines: Table saws, milling machines or grinding machines are essential for many workshop jobs in woodworking companies. Depending on the trade, you may need other machines or you can rent a hall to start your own business. Depending on the location, you can share machines there, which can be cheaper to get started.
• Mobile devices: Mobile machines are also required time and again, especially for larger construction sites. If you are just starting out as a sole trader, this is not necessary to get started in most cases.
• Safety equipment: Safety goggles, hearing protection and work gloves — the most important thing is that you protect yourself and your team.

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3. Vehicles and mobility: Flexible travel

‍A suitable transporter or delivery van is essential, because somehow you have to get to your construction sites, pick up deliveries and transport materials:

• Transporter: Choose a vehicle with enough storage space for tools and materials. You can also look around for a used car. These often have additional features, such as shelves, so that you can make maximum use of the storage space.
• followers: For large machines or bulky materials, a trailer is a useful addition. Especially for starters and if you know that you only rarely need it, you can also look for a rental company so that you can travel more cheaply.
• Vehicle lettering: Use your vehicle as a mobile advertisement. Professional lettering with your company logo and contact details increases your visibility in the city and can help you get new orders. In addition, residents are often more lenient if you don't park correctly because it is immediately visible that it is a craftsman.

💡 Tip: Also consider insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs in your financial planning. In addition, there are currently increased waiting times when making appointments at many road traffic offices.

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4. Digital tools: increase efficiency

‍Digitalization makes it easier to organize and manage your craft business. While you are certainly already exhausting all sorts of digital options privately - be it just transferring money via online banking or navigating via Google Maps, you should also set yourself up digitally in your company:

• Your own website: Of course, you also need to draw attention to yourself and offer potential customers the chance to contact you. This requires your own website (and, depending on your affinity, your own social media channels).
• Accounting software: With accounting software, you can keep track of your income and expenses and automate payment processes.
• Craftsman software: With craftsman software like plancraft, you can plan your projects, create offers, write invoices, record your time and much more — all in one program.

💡 plancraft is specially developed for craft businesses and helps you get your office work done in no time at all, so you can concentrate on what's important: your craft. With our Start-up program You also have the option to use plancraft free of charge for three months.

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Conclusion

The right initial equipment lays the foundation for your success as an independent craftsman. If possible, invest directly in high-quality tools and in suitable craftsman software to work professionally right from the start. With plancraft's support, you can make optimal use of your time and concentrate completely on starting your own business.