Local fertilizer and soil product delivery

Market gardeners, hobby farms, greenhouse and orchard growers, nurseries, sod farms and small livestock or hay producers who are too small for the big input dealers.

You mark up the products and charge for delivery. Repeat seasonal orders and pre-booked spring programs give steady income.

• Basic knowledge of crop nutrients and soil tests
• Safe driving and loading
• Building relationships with growers
• Stock and order tracking

• Fertilizers are regulated federally (check with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency about product registration and labelling rules)
• Check provincial and municipal rules on storing fertilizer, especially high-nitrogen products, and on zoning for your yard
• Check transport of dangerous goods rules for some products and the licence class your vehicle needs
• Commercial general liability insurance and cover for stock and vehicle
• Seasonal demand: most sales fall in spring and fall, so plan cash flow for the quiet winter months
• In Quebec, check French-language labelling and documentation requirements

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your truck or trailer, whether you rent or own a yard or shed, and how much stock you buy at the start.

Fertilizers are regulated federally, so check with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency about product registration and labelling. Also check provincial and municipal storage and zoning rules, transport of dangerous goods rules, your vehicle licence class, insurance, and French-language requirements in Quebec.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your customers, stock and delivery area. Most sales fall in spring and fall, so plan cash flow for the quiet winter months.