Local Storage, Pick-and-Pack and Dispatch Service

Online shops, makers, importers and small wholesalers who have outgrown their garage or spare room.

Monthly storage fees per pallet or shelf, plus a fee for each order packed and a margin on postage or freight.

• Organised stock handling
• Reliable and accurate under deadlines
• Dealing with clients and couriers

• Upfront costs for a unit usually include a bond (often several weeks to a few months of rent), first month's rent, racking, shelving, packing benches and fit-out, so budget for these before signing
• Insurance for stock held for others, including public liability and cover for goods in your care
• Lease terms and council zoning or planning approval for the unit, check before signing
• Workplace health and safety duties, especially manual handling and forklifts (check licensing for forklift use)
• Workers compensation insurance once you hire staff
• Depending on a few big clients, as losing one can leave empty space

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $20,000 to $70,000, depending on the unit and fit-out. Upfront costs usually include a bond, first month's rent, racking, shelving and packing benches, so budget for these before signing a lease.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many clients you store for and how many orders you pack. Relying on a few big clients is a risk, as losing one can leave you with empty space.

Check insurance for stock held for others, lease terms, and council zoning or planning approval for the unit. Also check workplace health and safety duties, including manual handling and forklift licensing, and workers compensation insurance once you hire staff.