Local copper trade counter supplier

Plumbers, roofers, refrigeration and HVAC tradies, fabricators, manufacturers and workshops that need copper quickly and in smaller quantities than a big wholesaler.

Margin on stock sold, plus charges for cutting and local delivery. Trade accounts with regular customers give steadier income than one-off sales.

• Knowledge of copper products and sizes
• Selling to trade customers
• Stock control and cash flow management

• Stock is a big upfront cost and copper prices change, so check how you will manage price swings and cash flow
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus insurance for stock and theft
• Check that copper tube sold for plumbing or gas meets the Australian standards your customers need
• Check zoning and council approval for your unit, and rules on storing and delivering materials
• If you buy scrap back from customers, check your state's rules on scrap metal and second-hand dealers
• Workers compensation insurance once you hire staff, and safe handling of heavy stock

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on how much copper stock you carry, your unit and any delivery vehicle. Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $15,000 to $70,000.

Check that copper tube sold for plumbing or gas meets the Australian standards your customers need, zoning and council approval for your unit, rules on storing and delivering materials, and your state's rules if you buy scrap back. Also check insurance for liability, stock and theft.

Stock is a big upfront cost and copper prices change, so check how you will manage price swings and cash flow. Estimates suggest at least about 35 hours a week. Skills that help include copper product knowledge, selling to trade customers and stock control.