Online laminator and supplies shop

Teachers and schools, small offices, home businesses, churches and community groups, and small print or sign shops that need repeat supplies.

Profit on each machine, plus repeat sales of pouches and rolls, which usually bring customers back. Bundles of a machine and starter supplies help raise the order value.

• Online selling and product listings
• Comparing specs and explaining them simply
• Customer service and handling returns

• GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, and check provincial sales tax rules (PST or QST) for online sales
• Margins on machines can be thin against big retailers, so supplies and service often matter more
• Check that heated equipment you sell carries recognised Canadian safety certification, and check your supplier's warranty and returns terms
• Commercial general liability insurance, and check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence
• If you sell to Quebec customers, check French-language requirements for your site and product information

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how much stock you buy and whether you hold it yourself or use a distributor. Starting with a small range of pouches and film keeps your upfront spend down.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $3,500, depending on your range, pricing and how many repeat customers you win. That is revenue, not profit, and margins on machines can be thin, so supplies often matter more.

Check GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, and provincial sales tax rules (PST or QST). Also check that heated equipment has recognised Canadian safety certification, your supplier's warranty and returns terms, insurance, home-based licensing and French-language requirements for Quebec customers.