Local metal supply yard and trade counter

Fabricators, engineers, manufacturers, tradies, farmers and workshops that need metal the same day or in small quantities.

Margin on stock sales, charges for cutting and delivery, and trade accounts with regular customers.

• Knowing metals, sizes and fixings
• Managing stock and cash flow
• Customer service with trade buyers
• Safe handling of heavy materials

• Check zoning and council approval for your premises and your use
• If you or your staff will operate a forklift, crane or do other high risk work, check whether a licence is needed with your state's workplace safety regulator
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus cover for stock and premises
• Workers compensation insurance once you hire, through your state scheme
• Stock ties up a lot of cash and metal prices can change, so plan your cash flow
• If you will store gas cylinders or other consumables, check storage rules with your state's workplace safety regulator

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $250,000 to $800,000, depending on your premises, stock range and equipment. Stock ties up a lot of cash and metal prices can change, so plan your cash flow carefully before you commit to a lease.

Check zoning and council approval for your premises and your use. If you or staff will operate a forklift, crane or do other high risk work, check licensing with your state's workplace safety regulator. Also check storage rules for gas cylinders.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $70,000, depending on your stock range, location and customer base. That is revenue, not profit. Expect to work at least 40 hours a week, and allow for the cost of holding stock.