Trade ceiling supply yard with delivery

Builders, plasterers, ceiling fixers, decorators and renovators who need materials quickly and on trade accounts.

You buy from manufacturers and wholesalers and sell at a margin. Extra income comes from delivery fees and add-ons like fixings, adhesives and tools.

• Knowing ceiling products and how they are installed
• Building trade relationships
• Stock control and ordering
• Safe lifting and loading

• Public liability, product liability, stock and goods-in-transit insurance
• Check that products meet Australian Standards and National Construction Code requirements, especially fire-rated and moisture-resistant boards
• Trade credit risk: late-paying accounts can squeeze cash flow, so set credit limits
• Heavy sheets and manual handling injuries, plus a forklift licence if you use one (check your state's WorkSafe rules)
• Check council zoning and approvals for the unit, and register for GST once you reach the threshold

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $30,000 to $120,000, depending on how much stock you hold, the rent on your unit and the delivery vehicle you use.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your trade accounts, product range and delivery area. Stock, rent and running costs come out of that, and late-paying accounts can squeeze cash flow.

Check public liability, product liability, stock and goods-in-transit insurance. Check that products meet Australian Standards and National Construction Code requirements, especially fire-rated and moisture-resistant boards. Also check forklift licence rules with your state's WorkSafe, council zoning and GST registration.