Want to sell Customer Base

[Forkliftt]

Hello all...
I need advice on a business issue. I own an equipment repair business (forklifts) that I started 10 years ago. We have employed up to 4 technicians at times- but as of 6 months ago we have downsized to my myself and my wife. Much simpler and less stressful- given the lack of manpower available in our area. The economy is very strong in our area- and housing, commercial buildings, etc. are all doing well.
We are an independant (not a dealership) and specialize in repairs. I have strong relationships built with my customer base and am respected by my customers and competitors for my ability and integrity. My labor rates are within 5% of the dealerships. Gross sales this year should be about $250,000 with just me as the tech- last year was about $500,000 with a full crew. Now the delimma.
My wife and I want to relocate and to restart our business in a new location. This would give us access to wonderful boating (our passion) and it is near a lot of industry and a more available workforce. We would like to complete this in the next 3- 6 months and could use any cash value that our current business has. I can not openly offer our business for sale- this would jeaprodize our customer base. My competitors would use this against me I am sure. Being the sole talent and with no building available I have really no tangible thing to offer. However- I have enough repair work and scheduled maintenance available to keep 3 mechanics busy. I have all the contact info, payment history, machine model and S/N's, etc..
Is there a way to offer this to a local dealership without worrying about my plans getting out? I am hesitant to run an add in nearby cities for fear of being recognized. Seems to me a repair company could provide a mechanic to ride with me for a couple of months to transition into my place when we leave. It would be a shame to let a viable business evaporate. Any ideas would be appreciated.
Steve

[yourlocaltrades]

What about the "four" you previously employed? is one of them "management" material?
He/She could do the business but you could show up for a couple of weeks or a month every year and keep your personal contacts still reasonable personal.
If thast makes sense?

[keithlunt]

My parents tried this years ago. Unfortunately it did end in divorce. They ran a successful clothing business and decided to promote a couple of workers to managers, intending to leave them in charge and attend 1 or 2 days a week.

Sadly, although excellent workers one of them wasn't up to the job and caused more problems then solved. Eventually Dad was back there full time, with me helping out when he was on holiday, but the company had been hit badly and couldn't recover through it's off season.

I would suggest advertising through whatever sources using a mailbox for replies. I'm sure there are certain magazines that allow you to advertise without giving your identity up for this very reason.

[globalart4u]

franchise it in that area and as yourlocaltrades suggested what about the people you let off can one or all manage it?