Trade-Only refurbished computer supplier

Resellers, repair shops, schools, charities and small businesses that buy several machines at once.

You buy lots at a discount and sell tested, graded units at a margin. Repeat trade customers ordering by the batch are the core of the business.

• Testing and grading computer hardware
• Sourcing and negotiating
• Basic online store or catalogue setup
• Customer service for trade buyers

• Register for an ABN and check GST obligations
• Properly wipe data from every device and keep records, as this is a privacy risk
• Check Australian Consumer Law rules on warranties and returns, even for business buyers
• Check how your state or council handles e-waste for units you cannot sell
• Working from home may need council approval for a home-based business, and stock needs insurance
• Used stock quality varies, so test a sample before buying a full lot

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on how many lots of machines you buy and your testing and catalogue setup. Test a sample before buying a full lot, as used stock quality varies.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on batch sizes, stock quality and how many trade buyers you attract. This is revenue before costs. Plan for around 15 hours a week at minimum.

Check ABN and GST obligations, and Australian Consumer Law rules on warranties and returns. Wipe data from every device and keep records because of privacy risk. Also check state or council e-waste handling, council approval for working from home, and stock insurance.