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5 Mobile Businesses You Can Create from an RV or Van

With the pandemic changing so many aspects of our lives – from where we work to how we shop – it’s no wonder that many small business owners and entrepreneurs have had to flex their creative muscles in order to reach customers and make sales. One surefire way to attract shoppers is to go where the people are, and nothing makes this easier than having a mobile business on wheels.

From nail salon buses to mobile hotel vans, there’s no shortage of ways to create a business that travels – especially with the assortment of recreational vehicles out there. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur who’s just starting out or an established business looking to expand your horizons, an RV is a great vessel to take your business to the streets…or at least your own backyard.

Here we take a look at five mobile businesses you can start from a converted van, trailer, or mobile home.

FOOD TRUCK

From to-go cocktails and curbside takeout to inventive outdoor dining and adaptive menu options, many restaurants have had to get creative in order to reach patrons this past year. With outdoor seating being the safest way to dine for the foreseeable future, a food truck is an excellent option for those who want to feed the masses. The options are endless when it comes to choosing your vehicle of choice – it’s all a matter of how much cook space you need (plus, any local restrictions).

Rolling Rooster food truck in Austin, TX

@RollingRoooster

DOG GROOMING

Mobile pet salons are so hot these days. With many dog and cat owners stuck at home (and spending more time than ever with their furry friends), groomers everywhere are taking their services on the road and business is booming. Motorized RVs with full plumbing capabilities are ideal for this venture – even if your canine clients prefer the front yard water hose.

labradoodle at pupparazzipets mobile business

@PupparazziPets

BARBERSHOP

Prefer to style hair on people instead of poodles? Mobile barbershops and hair salons are popping up across the country as a way for hairdressers to go directly to their customers. With the future of brick-and-mortar shops still up in the air, more and more stylists are depending on mobile businesses to propel their business forward during these unpredictable times.

The Lonely Barber's converted barbershop van on Instagram

@TheLonelyBarber 

HOME OFFICE

With Airstream officially introducing its first floor plan with a home office, it’s safe to say our remote work lives won’t be going away anytime soon. Whether you’re running an online business out of your home and need space away from at-home kids, or you have no reason to return to an office ever, a mobile workspace is a great way to find a healthy work-life balance (no matter if you’re parked in the mountains or your own backyard).

home office setup with monitor and keyboard in converted van space

@VanLifestyle.st

USHIP CARRIER

One tried and true business you can start with a van, trailer, or camper is a transportation business. Every day on uShip, thousands of transporters are paid to travel across the country and haul everything from antique furniture to Airstream trailers. Learn more about becoming a uShip carrier and see if it might be the right mobile business move for you.

uShip carrier and RV transporter moving airstream trailer - mobile business

@KushMovers

If you’re looking for the perfect RV for your mobile business, chances are you won’t find it close to home. With uShip, you can purchase a used or new recreational vehicle from anywhere in the country and have it shipped directly to your door. Learn more and see how easy it is to get your mobile business on the road.