Plan printing and copy shop

Builders, architects, engineers, surveyors, drafting firms, councils' applicants and students who need plans printed and bound.

Per-sheet prices by size and colour, project set pricing, scanning, binding, mounting and rush fees, plus trade accounts billed monthly.

• Customer service and quick turnaround
• Handling and maintaining printing equipment
• Basic bookkeeping and chasing invoices

• Lease terms, rent and fit-out costs, so check the numbers before you sign
• Public liability and business property insurance, and workers compensation once you hire staff
• Equipment breakdowns and service contracts for large-format machines
• More plans are sent digitally, so diversify into scanning, binding and signage-style jobs
• Check with your local council about zoning and any approvals for your premises

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on the premises, fit-out and whether you buy or lease the large-format printer, scanner, cutter and folding equipment. Check the numbers before you sign a lease.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $5,000 to $20,000, depending on location, trade accounts and the mix of printing, scanning and binding work. This is revenue, not profit, so factor in rent, equipment and service costs.

Check lease terms and fit-out costs, public liability and business property insurance, and workers compensation once you hire staff. Also check service contracts for large-format machines and council zoning for your premises, and plan for the shift to digital plans.