Start a local fence supply yard

Homeowners doing DIY fencing, landscapers, builders and fencing contractors who need materials fast and close to the job.

You buy from manufacturers and wholesalers and sell at a markup. Extra income comes from delivery fees, cut-to-length services and trade accounts for regular contractors.

• Knowing fencing materials and how they are installed
• Customer service and quoting
• Stock control and ordering
• Handling heavy materials safely

• Zoning and council approval for a yard or retail use, check with your local council before signing a lease
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus stock and theft cover
• Workplace safety rules for forklifts, manual handling and heavy stock, check your state's workplace safety regulator
• Money tied up in stock and slow-paying trade accounts
• Competition from large hardware chains, so check what niche or service you can win on
• Workers compensation insurance once you hire staff, and a delivery vehicle or ute with the right licence for the load

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on the yard or unit you secure, the stock you hold and any delivery vehicle you need.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $20,000 to $80,000, depending on your stock range, location and trade accounts, often from around 40 hours a week. Money tied up in stock and slow-paying accounts can affect cash flow.

Check zoning and council approval for a yard or retail use before signing a lease. Check your state's workplace safety rules for forklifts and manual handling, insurance including public liability, product liability and stock cover, and workers compensation once you hire.