Online industrial tools and equipment supplier

Small workshops, fabricators, building firms, maintenance teams and tradies who want to order quickly and compare prices.

You earn the margin between wholesale and selling price on each order. Repeat business accounts and bundles for regular buyers help lift order sizes.

• Knowing tools and equipment
• Sales and quoting
• Supplier negotiation
• Basic website and order management

• Register for GST once turnover reaches the threshold, and check how it applies to your sales
• Public liability and product liability insurance, as faulty equipment can cause injury or damage
• Check that imported or machinery products meet Australian safety standards and Australian Consumer Law requirements
• Freight costs and returns on heavy items can wipe out your margin, so confirm supplier terms first
• Slow-paying trade customers, so check credit terms before agreeing

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $10,000, depending on your website, how much stock you hold and your supplier arrangements. Many orders can be sent direct from the manufacturer or wholesaler, which can keep stock costs low.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $8,000, depending on your product range, pricing and how many trade customers you win. This is sales before freight and supplier costs, and the idea needs about 10 hours a week at minimum.

Check that imported or machinery products meet Australian safety standards and Australian Consumer Law requirements. Also check GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold, public liability and product liability insurance, supplier terms on freight and returns, and credit terms for trade customers.