Business Opening Checklist – 50 Points You Should Not Overlook

 

Checklist for Starting a Business in Germany – 50 Essential Points Not to Overlook

Here is a comprehensive list of 50 steps, arranged chronologically, covering the legal, financial, operational, marketing, and administrative aspects of opening your business in Germany, whether it is a restaurant, a shop, or an online project.

1–10: Preparation and Planning

• Formulate the business idea

• Prepare a convincing business plan (for banks or Jobcenter)

• Choose the legal form (sole proprietorship, UG, GmbH…)

• Calculate total costs (investments + operating costs)

• Estimate expected revenues (profitability forecast)

• Check sources of financing (equity / subsidies / loan)

• Seek advice from IHK or start-up consultancy

• Define the sector (trade, services, gastronomy…)

• Plan the location (rental property / home business / online)

• Define target group and USP

11–20: Official Registrations

• Register with the trade office (Gewerbeschein)

• Obtain tax number from the tax office

• Apply for VAT ID (USt-IdNr.)

• Register business address

• Register with IHK or HWK (mandatory membership)

• Register with the professional association (BG)

• Open a business account

• Register employees (including social insurance)

• Obtain necessary insurances (business liability…)

• Check required licenses (restaurant license, craftsman card…)

21–30: Location and Equipment

• Sign commercial lease after careful review

• Design interior according to DIN standards + accessibility

• Install facilities (water, electricity, grease separator…)

• Set up security system (camera, alarm system)

• Obtain permit for outdoor advertising

• Contract waste disposal company

• Purchase main equipment and furnishings

• Organize initial inventory + supplier contracts

• Choose cashier system and inventory management software

• Set up internet connection + business phone tariff

31–40: Marketing and Launch

• Design logo and corporate identity

• Create website with imprint + GDPR compliance

• Open professional social media accounts

• Register trademark with DPMA (optional but important)

• Prepare opening campaign

• Print flyers / handouts / business cards

• Contact local newspapers and radio stations

• Cooperate with associations and local community

• Place price tags and MHD + allergen labeling (for food products)

• Take professional photos of products and services

41–50: Daily Operations and Improvement

• Organize opening hours

• Train employees in hygiene, service, cashier system

• Start digital invoice recording according to GoBD

• Monitor income and expenses monthly

• Update inventory and manage regular supplies

• Maintain safety equipment and fire protection

• Collect customer reviews (Google, Social Media)

• Evaluate promotional campaigns and their impact

• Prepare tax documents for accountant / DATEV

• Review goals + update business plan every 3 months

The editorial team of the website strives to provide accurate information through extensive research and consultation of multiple sources. However, errors or uncertain information may appear. Therefore, the information in the articles should be considered as preliminary reference, and official authorities should always be consulted for confirmed information.