Equipment sourcing agent for workshops

Small manufacturers, fabrication shops, engineering workshops and maintenance managers who are short on time to chase suppliers.

A margin added on top of the supplier price, or a commission or finder's fee agreed with the supplier or the buyer.

• Reading technical specifications
• Negotiating with suppliers
• Following up and staying organised
• Building trust with trade buyers

• Public liability and product liability insurance, check what cover you need if you sell goods
• Warranty and returns terms: make sure supplier terms cover what you promise customers
• GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold
• Imported machinery may need to meet Australian safety standards, check with the supplier and the relevant state work health and safety regulator
• Council approval may be needed to run a business from home, check with your local council

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $500 to $3,000, depending on your home office setup, software, marketing and insurance. You work from home and hold no stock, which keeps the upfront outlay in that estimated range.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many workshops you supply and the size of their orders. Hours are estimated from about 8 per week, so you could start part-time and build up.

Check what public liability and product liability cover you need if you sell goods, and whether supplier warranty and returns terms match what you promise customers. Also check GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold, safety standards for imported machinery, and council approval for a home business.