Mobile fixings and hardware supply van

Builders, carpenters, fencers, maintenance crews and small construction firms that value saving time over shopping around.

You sell at a markup on wholesale cost, often to regular accounts on a route. Some customers pay a small premium for the convenience, and larger orders can be delivered next day.

• Reliable driving and route planning
• Knowing common trade fixings and what each job needs
• Building relationships with site supervisors and tradies

• Vehicle insurance that covers stock and business use, plus public liability insurance
• Safe loading and weight limits for heavy metal stock
• Slow-paying customers, so consider account terms carefully
• Parking and site access rules, and any signage or council requirements (check locally)
• Register for GST once your turnover reaches the threshold

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $15,000 to $50,000, depending on the van or ute, the racking and bins you fit, and your opening stock of fixings and hardware. Insurance for business use and stock will also affect the total.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $6,000 to $25,000, depending on your route, how many sites and workshops you visit, and your stock range. Slow-paying customers can hurt cash flow, so consider account terms carefully.

Check vehicle insurance that covers stock and business use, plus public liability insurance. Also check safe loading and weight limits for heavy metal stock, parking and site access rules, any signage or council requirements locally, and GST registration at the threshold.