How to Start a Bouncer Business

Generic-themed bouncers may be a good option when first starting out in business.

Bouncers, or inflatable jumpers, have become nearly ubiquitous at some children's parties, whether it's a colorful castle, favorite cartoon character or multi-roomed bouncer extravaganza. Bouncer businesses can have low start-up costs, since you may require only one or two jumpers to get things started and can slowly build a client base through weekend events. Starting a bouncer business requires organization, some physical strength for setting up jumpers and good communication skills for customer interaction.

Things You'll Need

• Business license
• Bouncers
• Advertising materials
• Party items

Instructions

1. Apply for a business license and tax identification number before starting the bouncer business. You'll need to contact state or local authorities for the former and the Internal Revenue Service for the latter. You'll also want to purchase liability insurance and any required additional auto insurance if you'll be using a personal vehicle to transport bouncers to events.

2. Purchase bouncers. If you're starting out with only one or two, steer clear of very specific bouncer designs, such as playhouses themed with popular cartoon characters, since these may not be in as much demand as general bouncer designs. You may save money by leasing or purchasing secondhand bouncers, but make sure they are clean and leak-free.

3. Lease or purchase a company vehicle, if desired. Since customers need bouncers for short periods of time --- for example, six hours on a Saturday --- it's important to have a reliable vehicle to safely transport bouncers to event sites. Bouncers can be bulky even when they're not inflated, so go for a pickup truck, delivery van or other large vehicle.

4. Write contracts for customers. Bouncers may evoke playfulness and fun, but you're still running a business. Clearly state pricing scales for bouncers, including whether customers will pay hourly labor rates for set-up and break-down. Include terms describing payment penalties should children puncture inflated structures, tear netting or otherwise damage bouncers.

5. Promote your bouncer business by advertising in the phone book, distributing business cards and posting fliers at child-friendly locations such as a bookstore, library, kids' clothing stores and pizza parlors. Establish a rewards system for customer loyalty and referrals, so families get discounts after booking a specified number of bouncer events.

Tips & Warnings

• Boost income by selling other party items, including popcorn machines, margarita machines and helium tanks for inflating balloons. Contracting with children's entertainment providers, like clowns, face painters or kids' yoga instructors, can bring added value to your bouncer party packages.

• Carefully train all staff members in safe methods for setting up and breaking down bouncers. Incorrectly inflated bouncers can result in injuries, and children could get hurt when playing near fans or inflation motors. Maintaining a strong safety record is key to establishing a lasting bouncer business. Have customers sign waivers.

References

• Inflatable Rental Company Operations: A Hard Look at the Profitability of the Bouncer Business
• Hullaballoo Sales: Why Start a Home-Based Business?
• Bouncers Direct: How to Start an Inflatable Business
• Gaebler: Starting an Inflatable Bouncer Business
• More Business: How to Jump Into the Wonderful World of Bouncy Party Rentals