Small landscape supply yard

Landscapers, builders and concreters on trade accounts, plus homeowners with DIY projects.

You sell materials by volume, weight or pallet, add delivery fees, and offer trade pricing for repeat customers.

• Running a loader or skid steer safely
• Stock control and pricing
• Dealing with trade customers

• Planning permission and zoning for a materials yard: check with your local council whether you need a development or use approval before trading
• Environmental rules on dust, stormwater runoff and stockpiles: check with your state's EPA or environment regulator whether a permit applies
• Plant operation: check with your state or territory WHS regulator whether a high risk work licence or documented training and competency is needed for the loader or skid steer you use, and for any staff who operate it
• If you deliver with a truck, check the vehicle licence class needed for its weight and the load restraint rules
• Work health and safety duties, including traffic management around the yard
• Public liability, property and workers compensation insurance once you hire
• Lease terms and cash tied up in stock

Startup costs are typically around $120,000 to $450,000, depending on the lease, the loader or skid steer, and how much stock you hold. These are estimates, so check your numbers carefully, as cash can be tied up in stock.

Monthly revenue is typically around $15,000 to $70,000, depending on your mix of trade accounts and walk-in customers, your product range and whether you deliver. This is an estimate, not a guarantee.

Check with your council whether you need planning or use approval, and with your state's environment regulator about dust, stormwater and stockpile rules. Also check with your WHS regulator whether a high risk work licence or training is needed for the loader or skid steer.