Yard Card Business Overview

A yard sign business, also known as a yard card business, involves creating and installing customized signs for various occasions and events. These signs are typically made of corrugated plastic and can include anything from birthday and graduation celebrations to baby announcements and retirement parties.

With low startup costs and a high demand for personalized signs, it’s an ideal small business opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on a unique market.

Related: Checklist To Start A Business

How Do Yard Card Businesses Make Money?

Yard card businesses operate on a rental and service model, with income primarily generated from short-term display installations. These businesses work on advance bookings and can handle multiple installations per day depending on their inventory levels and staff size.

The pricing structure typically includes base rates that vary by display size and complexity, with standard rental periods of 24-48 hours.

Industry Summary

Yard Card Industry Size & Growth: The yard card business operates within the broader $7.3 billion event rental and party supply industry, which includes yard cards. This industry experienced a surge in demand during the pandemic as people sought safe, socially distanced ways to celebrate. While growth has leveled off since, yard cards remain a popular option for birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, and other events. The industry is projected to grow annually by 1.8% through 2028. (IBISWorld)

Yard Card Business Profit Margins: Profit margins in the yard card industry range from 20% to 50%. The range varies based on several factors, including the size of displays, materials used, and setup complexity. Basic displays generally earn higher margins compared to elaborate custom designs, which require more materials and labor time.

Though no specific data isolates yard card services, anecdotal evidence and surveys suggest small operators can generate annual revenues between $20,000 and $50,000, depending on their location, marketing efforts, and range of services.

Costs To Start a Yard Card Business

Starting a yard card business could range from $2,500 to $8,000. This business offers flexibility in initial investment as owners can begin with basic inventory and equipment, adding more as the business grows.

Here are some of the main costs to consider when starting this type of business:

Initial Inventory: Your starting collection of letters, numbers, and decorative elements might cost between $1,500 and $3,000. This includes standard alphabets in multiple colors, common milestone numbers, and themed decorations for occasions like birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries.

Equipment and Storage: Storage solutions and handling equipment could cost $500 to $1,500. This includes weatherproof containers, transportation racks, stakes, tools for installation, and basic repair supplies. A dedicated storage space helps protect materials from weather damage and keeps inventory organized.

Vehicle: A cargo van or SUV suitable for transporting displays will be necessary if you don’t already own an appropriate vehicle. The vehicle needs enough space to carry multiple displays and should accommodate long letters and decorative elements without damage.

Software and Payment Processing: Business management and scheduling software along with payment processing equipment might cost $200 to $500. This covers booking systems, design software, and card payment capabilities.

These estimates represent general ranges, and actual costs will vary depending on location and scale of operations.