Running a business in the motor trade means juggling a lot more than engines and estimates — from dealing with fluctuating stock and parts costs to managing VAT, payroll, and keeping your records MOT-ready for HMRC.
We work closely with garages, car / van dealers, mobile mechanics, body repair shops, MOT centres and other motor trade professionals across the South West. We know the road you're on — and we know how to steer your accounts in the right direction.
Whether you're operating as a sole trader, partnership or limited company, we tailor our support to fit your garage floor, not the other way around. From helping you handle VAT margin schemes to sorting out your bookkeeping, CIS and tax returns — we take care of the financial side so you can stay under the bonnet.
We also keep things simple, straight-talking and practical — no jargon, no guesswork. Just expert advice, reliable support, and a focus on helping your business run smoother, grow stronger, and stay compliant.
With us in your corner, you can focus on what you do best — and leave the paperwork in the rearview.
Running a busy garage or forecourt is not easy, with the unpredictability of the nature of work or sales it can be hard to keep on top of your finances - here's how we can help:
Accounting for VAT can be tricky from applying the second hand margin scheme to knowing when sales are standard rated, it is important that you are tracking your finances the right way. VAT bills can vary significantly from one month to the next and having a system to keep on top is vital
Navigating payroll and running a PAYE scheme involves having an all round knowledge of HMRC procedures, making regular submissions, issuing the correct forms, calculating the correct pay and pension deductions. Often in the motor trade hours can vary and you may even take on apprentices. We work with our clients to make sure that they have the correct systems in place
Investment in stock and equipment can dry up your cash flow and without having regular figures you have no way of knowing your overall position and how much money to keep back. Often people will rely on their bank balance but with money tied up in stock it can give a very different picture to your overall position