Rural tractor and machinery parts counter

Farmers, contractors, local workshops and mechanics who need parts urgently during seasonal work and can't wait for freight.

Mark-up on parts sold over the counter, trade accounts for regular customers, and ordering in special parts for a small fee or margin. Some also sell oils, greases, hydraulic fittings and workwear.

• Strong tractor and farm machinery knowledge
• Stock control and ordering
• Customer service and building trade relationships
• Basic bookkeeping and cash flow management

• Stock ties up a lot of cash and slow-moving parts can sit on shelves, so start with fast movers
• Competition from big dealers and online suppliers, so work out what makes you better locally
• Check council zoning and approval for the premises, and rules for storing oils, batteries and other dangerous goods
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus workers compensation insurance once you hire
• Farm income is seasonal, so plan cash flow for quiet months
• Australian Consumer Law guarantees apply to parts you sell, so have a clear returns process

Estimates typically put startup costs at around $60,000 to $200,000, depending on the premises, fit-out and how much stock you carry. Stock ties up a lot of cash, so starting with fast-moving parts can help keep the initial outlay down.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $20,000 to $90,000, depending on your location, stock range and the farming season. Farm income is seasonal, so it's worth planning your cash flow for the quieter months.

Check council zoning and approval for the premises, and the rules for storing oils, batteries and other dangerous goods. Also look into public liability and product liability insurance, workers compensation once you hire, and Australian Consumer Law guarantees on the parts you sell.