Small used truck yard

Local haulage and delivery firms, tradespeople, farmers, and private buyers looking for a work vehicle.

Margin on each vehicle sold, plus possible extras such as finance or insurance referral commissions, trade-ins and transport fees. Fast turnover of stock matters more than a high margin on one sale.

• Vehicle knowledge and valuing trade-ins
• Sales and negotiation
• Managing cash flow and stock

• State dealer licensing, which often involves approved premises, a fit and proper person check and sometimes a fidelity fund contribution, check your state's rules
• Council zoning and planning approval for a vehicle yard
• Public liability and motor trader insurance, plus workers compensation if you hire
• PPSR checks, odometer and roadworthy or safety certificate rules, and statutory warranties that vary by state
• Large amounts of money tied up in stock, and the risk of vehicles that sell slowly
• Australian Consumer Law applies to sales, so keep honest descriptions and records

Startup costs are typically around $80,000 to $300,000, depending on your site, the stock you hold and licensing and insurance. These are estimates, and a lot of money can be tied up in vehicles that sell slowly.

Monthly revenue is typically around $30,000 to $150,000, depending on your stock levels, the vehicles you sell and your location. This is an estimate, not profit. Expect to work around 35 hours a week or more.

Check your state's dealer licensing, which may involve approved premises, a fit and proper person check and a fidelity fund contribution. Also check council zoning and planning approval, motor trader and public liability insurance, PPSR, roadworthy and warranty rules, and Australian Consumer Law.