Hydraulic parts shop with hose assembly

Local engineering firms, fabricators, farms, fleet operators, repair shops and construction companies.

Markup on parts sold across the counter and to account customers, plus labour and margin on custom hose assemblies and some repairs.

• Technical knowledge of hydraulic components
• Stock control and purchasing
• Sales and account management
• Basic bookkeeping

• Stock is a big upfront cost, so start with fast-moving items and order the rest to demand
• Check zoning and the commercial lease terms for industrial use with your municipality
• Commercial general liability, product liability and property insurance
• Check workplace safety rules, including WHMIS for oils and cleaning products, with your provincial regulator
• Competition from large national distributors and online sellers, so local speed and service matter

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on the unit, equipment and how much stock you buy. Stock is a big upfront cost, so consider starting with fast-moving items and ordering the rest to demand.

Check zoning and the commercial lease terms for industrial use with your municipality. Check commercial general liability, product liability and property insurance, plus workplace safety rules, including WHMIS for oils and cleaning products, with your provincial regulator.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your location, stock and trade accounts. Plan for about 40 hours a week at the minimum. Large national distributors and online sellers compete, so local speed and service matter.