Local air filter supply for garages and buildings

Independent garages, small fleets, workshops, HVAC contractors, restaurants and property managers.

Margin on each filter sold, often through standing orders. Some buyers pay more for same-day or scheduled delivery and for help identifying the right part.

• Reading part numbers and specs
• Building trade relationships
• Reliable delivery and stock tracking
• Quoting and invoicing

• Commercial general liability and product liability insurance, plus vehicle insurance that covers business use
• Wrong or poor-quality filters can cause equipment problems, so keep to reputable brands and keep records of what you supplied
• Cash flow can be tight if business customers pay on 30-day terms
• Storage space, since stock takes room, and municipal rules on storing stock at home or renting a small unit
• Winter driving and delivery delays, since demand can also rise in heating season
• Registering for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold, and WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire, as rules vary by province

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how much stock you carry, your vehicle and your storage. Cash flow can be tight if business customers pay on 30-day terms, so plan for that.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many garages, fleets, workshops and buildings you supply and how often they reorder. The estimate assumes at least about 15 hours a week.

Check commercial general and product liability insurance, plus vehicle cover for business use. Also check municipal rules on storing stock at home or renting a unit, GST/HST registration past the small supplier threshold, and WCB/WSIB if you hire, as rules vary by province.