Online fastener supplier for trades

Contractors, renovators, small workshops, makers and small manufacturers who want better prices on boxes and bulk packs than they get at a big-box store.

You buy in large quantities and sell at a markup per box, pack or kit. Repeat orders from trade customers and larger bulk orders bring in the steadiest income.

• Knowing screw, bolt and anchor types and grades
• Organising stock and orders
• Basic online selling and customer service

• Check whether you need to register for GST/HST with the Canada Revenue Agency and how provincial sales tax applies in your province
• Check the grades and standards of fasteners you sell (for example structural or corrosion-resistant types) and that your supplier can document them
• Commercial general liability and product liability insurance, since faulty fasteners can cause costly damage
• Tied-up cash in stock and heavy shipping costs, so start with a limited range
• Check whether your municipality allows a home-based business with stock and deliveries

Startup costs are typically estimated around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your opening stock, storage and online store setup. Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your product range, pricing and how many trade customers you win.

Check whether you need GST/HST registration and how provincial sales tax applies. Check the grades and standards of fasteners you sell and that your supplier can document them. Consider commercial general liability and product liability insurance, and check municipal rules for home-based stock.

Estimates start at around 10 hours a week. Cash gets tied up in stock and shipping heavy boxes costs money, so start with a limited range such as deck screws or concrete anchors.