Ladder and access equipment trade counter

Builders, roofers, painters, electricians and maintenance teams, plus homeowners and landlords.

Retail margin on products, repeat trade accounts, and extras such as replacement parts, delivery fees or short-term ladder rentals.

• Product knowledge of ladders and access equipment
• Sales and building trade relationships
• Stock control and basic bookkeeping

• Stock ties up cash, so start with fast-selling sizes and avoid overbuying
• Check that products meet Canadian standards (such as CSA) and that you can show certifications to customers
• Commercial general liability and product liability insurance, plus property cover for stock
• Check your municipality for zoning, signage and business licence rules, and sales tax registration
• If you hire staff, check workers' compensation (WCB/WSIB) rules in your province

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $20,000 to $80,000, depending on the unit you rent and how much stock you carry. Stock ties up cash, so it is worth starting with fast-selling sizes and avoiding overbuying.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $10,000 to $50,000, depending on your stock range, local contractor demand and whether you add delivery. The estimate is for at least about 35 hours a week. Revenue is not profit.

Check that products meet Canadian standards such as CSA and that you can show certifications to customers. Also check commercial general liability and product liability insurance, municipal zoning, signage and business licence rules, sales tax registration, and WCB/WSIB rules if you hire.