Local cable and wire trade counter
Run a small trade counter that cuts cable to length for local electricians and contractors, with quick pick-up and delivery.
- A$40k-150k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in Australia, not guarantees.
What it is
A small unit in an industrial area stocking common cable and wire on drum stands, cut to the length the customer needs. It is a handy local alternative to a big wholesaler.
Your first three steps
- Talk to local electricians about what they buy, where from, and what frustrates them about current suppliers
- Open trade accounts with wholesalers and manufacturers and price out a core range of fast-moving cable
- Check unit rent and zoning for trade counters, then plan stock, cutting gear and a delivery vehicle
Who pays
Local electricians, contractors, solar and data installers, maintenance teams and small factories.
How it makes money
A margin on each metre or drum sold, with extra from related items such as glands, conduit and connectors, and from local delivery runs.
Skills that help
- Knowledge of cable types and ratings
- Customer service with tradies
- Stock control and buying
Watch out for
- Stock ties up a lot of cash, so start with fast sellers only
- Check electrical equipment safety and registration rules for the products you sell
- Public liability and product liability insurance, plus workers compensation once you hire
- Council zoning and lease terms for a trade counter, so check before signing
- Safe handling of heavy drums, and competition from large wholesalers on price
Deep research report · Australia
Everything you need to start: local cable and wire trade counter
Researched with live web search for Australia: real startup prices, the licences and rules, what others charge, a break-even example, how to find your first customers and a 30-day launch plan. With sources.
- Startup costs with real prices
- Licences, registration and rules
- Pricing: what others charge
- Break-even example
- Finding your first customers
- 30-day launch plan
- Risks and how to reduce them
Questions people ask
How much does it cost to start a cable and wire trade counter?
Startup costs are estimated at typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on the premises, how much stock you hold and your equipment. Stock ties up a lot of cash, so starting with fast sellers only can help.
How much can a cable trade counter earn?
Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your product range, local customers and pricing. This is revenue before stock and running costs, and the estimate assumes at least about 35 hours of work a week.
What rules should I check before opening a cable trade counter?
Check electrical equipment safety and registration rules for the products you sell. Also check council zoning and lease terms before signing, public liability and product liability insurance, workers compensation once you hire, and safe handling of heavy drums.
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Photo: Bru-nO on Pixabay