How to Find Vending Machine Routes for Sale: 🛒 Price & Tutorials
Vending machine route offers a unique opportunity to be your own boss and run your own business.
With vending machines located in high-traffic areas like schools, offices, and hospitals, there is always a demand for snacks and drinks. Buying a vending machine route for sale can be a great investment.
Not only do you get to be your own boss, but you also have the potential to make a significant profit.
How to Find Vending Machine Routes for Sale
There are several ways to find vending machine routes for sale.
Here are three popular methods:
1. Online Listings
One of the easiest ways to find vending machine routes for sale is to check online listings.
Websites like
- Vending Connection,
- Bizroutes, and
- The Route Exchange offers vending routes for sale.
These websites allow you to browse routes for sale by location, services offered, and owner financing options. Be sure to thoroughly research the vending machines and the seller’s financial records before submitting your bid.
2. Vending Machine Distributors
Vending machine distributors are another great source for finding vending machine routes for sale.
These distributors often have connections with route owners who are looking to sell. You can find vending machine distributors by searching online or by attending vending machine trade shows.
Be sure to ask about any available routes and the distributor’s commission fees.
3. Networking
Networking is a powerful tool for finding vending machine routes for sale. Attend vending machine trade shows and join vending machine associations to meet other route owners and distributors.
You can also reach out to vending machine operators in your area to see if they know of any available routes. Don’t be afraid to ask for referrals or to offer to buy out a route owner who is looking to retire.
Price of a Vending Machine Route
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a vending machine route is the price.
The cost of a vending machine route can vary depending on several factors, such as the number of machines, their condition, and the locations they are placed in.
On average, a vending machine route can sell for around 12 times its monthly sales. For example, if the machines in the route generate $10,000 in sales each month, the route could be valued at around $120,000.
Here’s a table to give you an idea of the potential cost of a vending machine route:
| Number of Machines | Condition | Locations | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-20 | Good | High-Traffic | $50,000-$100,000 |
| 20-30 | Excellent | Prime Locations | $100,000-$200,000 |
| 30-50 | Like New | Multiple Locations | $200,000-$500,000 |
Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and the actual cost of a vending machine route can vary depending on several factors.
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Do You Need a Permit for a Vending Machine: Sellers Permit 2024
Yes, you need a seller permit for Vending machine. The paperwork might differ according to your state and your machine’s products. However, you’ll most probably need permits and licenses on both federal and state levels.
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Vending Machine Routes 2023: How to Buy Vending Routes
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The average capacity of a vending machine is around 300 cans. Smaller models can fit as few as 48 to 250 cans, medium models can hold between 300 to 400 cans, and larger machines can carry 500 to more than 700 cans.
What to Look for in a Vending Machine Route
It’s important to consider the location, quality of machines, and product selection.
Location, Location, Location
The location of your vending machines is key to success. Look for routes in high-traffic areas such as office buildings, schools, hospitals, and shopping centers.
Consider the demographics of the area – what types of products will be in high demand?
A route in a gym may require more healthy snack options, while a route in a college dorm may require more late-night snack options.
Quality of Machines
The quality of the machines is also important. Make sure they are in good working condition and have modern technology such as cashless payment options.
You don’t want to spend time and money fixing broken machines or losing sales due to outdated technology.
Product Selection
Finally, consider the product selection. Look for routes with a variety of products to appeal to a wide range of customers.
Consider offering healthy snack options, as well as traditional vending machines fare such as chips and candy. Make sure the products are popular and in demand.
How to Evaluate the Value of a Vending Machine Route for Sale
Follow the guidelines before you jump in.
Assessing Revenue and Expenses
When evaluating the value of a vending machine route for sale, it’s important to take a close look at the revenue and expenses.
This will help you determine the profit margin and potential profitability of the route.
- Look at the gross annual sales volume and the profit margin of the route. Most vending routes operate with a 40-50% profit margin.
- Subtract the cost of the product, applicable taxes, and variable costs like gas and repairs. If the route is still profitable, it’s worth considering.
Determining the Asking Price
Once you have assessed the revenue and expenses, it’s time to determine the asking price for the vending machine route.
According to industry standards, the national average rate to determine the sale price for a vending machine route is 70-100% of the gross annual sales, with 100% being the rate for newer machines with warranties.
Negotiating the Sale
When negotiating the sale of a vending machine route, it’s important to be prepared and knowledgeable about the route’s value.
- Be sure to ask for a location list and inspect all vending machines on the route.
- Ask the seller to ride along on their route so that you can inspect the machines.
- Once you have a good understanding of the route’s value, negotiate the sale price based on the specific circumstances of the route.
- Remember, buying a vending machine route is an investment, and it’s important to carefully evaluate the value of the route before making a purchase.
- By assessing revenue and expenses, determining the asking price, and negotiating the sale, you can make an informed decision and potentially turn a profit.
Why Buy a Vending Machine Route?
Here are a few reasons why:
Steady Income
One of the biggest benefits of owning a vending machine route is the steady income it can provide. As long as your machines are well-placed and well-maintained, they can generate a reliable stream of revenue.
This can be especially appealing if you’re looking for a way to supplement your existing income or if you’re looking for a career change.
Flexibility
Another advantage of owning a vending machine route is the flexibility it offers. You can set your own hours and work as much or as little as you want.
It can also be a great option if you’re looking for a way to work from home or if you’re looking for a part-time job that can fit your other commitments.
Be Your Own Boss
Finally, owning a vending machine route means that you get to be your own boss. You can make your own decisions about which machines to buy, where to place them, and how to run your business.
Tips for Running a Successful Vending Machine Route
Running a vending machine route can be a lucrative business, but it takes more than just buying machines and placing them in locations.
Maintenance and Repairs
Talking about maintenance and repairs, keeping your machines in top condition is crucial for success.
Regularly check your machines to ensure they are clean, stocked, and working properly. If a machine breaks down, fix it as soon as possible to avoid losing sales.
A well-maintained machine is more likely to keep customers happy and coming back for more.
Customer Service
When it comes to customer service, remember that your customers are the lifeblood of your business. Be friendly and approachable when interacting with customers.
- Address any complaints or concerns promptly and professionally.
- A happy customer is more likely to become a loyal customer and recommend your machines to others.
Upselling and Cross-Selling
To increase your sales, consider upselling and cross-selling.
- Offer customers a variety of products to choose from, and suggest complementary items they may be interested in.
- For example, if a customer is buying a soda, suggest a snack to go with it. This can help increase your profits and make your customers feel like they are getting more value for their money.
Remember, running a successful vending machine route takes hard work, dedication, and attention to detail.
By following these tips and providing excellent service to your customers, you can build a thriving business that provides a steady stream of income.
READ: Vending Machines for Sale in Houston: Price & Dealerships
