Mobile abrasives supplier for local trades

Auto body shops, metal fabricators, welders, cabinet makers, general contractors and small manufacturers.

You sell at a markup on wholesale prices. Repeat orders and standing restock agreements with regular customers bring steady income. Delivery convenience and fast service let you compete without the lowest price.

• Knowing which abrasive suits which job
• Sales and relationship building
• Route planning and stock control

• Commercial general liability and product liability insurance, check what your insurer needs for supplying grinding products
• Grinding wheels have speed ratings and safety standards, buy only from reputable suppliers and store them as the manufacturer advises
• Check whether you must register for GST/HST, and for PST or QST depending on your province
• Large distributors can undercut on price, so you need a niche, a good service level or a specialist range
• Money tied up in stock and customers who pay late, set clear payment terms
• Check municipal rules if you store stock at home and any vehicle insurance changes for business use

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $4,000 to $20,000 CAD, depending on how much stock you buy from distributors or manufacturers and the vehicle set-up you need to deliver to workshops and job sites.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your customers, product range and route. Large distributors can undercut on price, so a niche or good service level helps.

Check what product liability and commercial general liability insurance your insurer requires. Grinding wheels have speed ratings and safety standards, so buy from reputable suppliers. Also check GST/HST, PST or QST registration, and municipal rules for storing stock at home.