Small-Lot Leather Exporter
Buy specialty leather in small lots from Canadian tanneries and sell it to makers and small factories abroad.
- C$10k-40k
- Part-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
You buy leather yourself, such as full hides, sides or offcuts in specific types and colours. You store it and ship it to overseas workshops and small manufacturers that want smaller orders than large suppliers handle.
Your first three steps
- Ask two or three Canadian tanneries or suppliers about minimum orders and sample prices
- Choose one export market, such as the US, and research the import rules and duties for leather
- Set up a simple online catalogue with samples, then send swatches to small makers
Who pays
Overseas makers of bags, shoes, belts, upholstery and other leather goods, such as small brands and workshops.
How it makes money
You sell at a mark-up over what you paid the tannery, priced per square foot or per hide, with the buyer covering shipping.
Skills that help
- Judging leather quality and grade
- Managing stock and cash flow
- Export sales and customer service
Watch out for
- Money tied up in stock: start with a few popular lines before buying widely
- Check export permits, CITES rules for exotic skins, and the destination country's import and animal health rules
- Storage conditions, since leather can be damaged by damp, heat and pests
- Shipping costs and customs delays, so work with a customs broker or freight forwarder
- Commercial general liability and cargo insurance, plus GST/HST treatment of exports, which you should confirm with an accountant
🔒 Full research report for Canada
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a small-lot leather export business?
Estimates suggest startup costs typically sit around $10,000 to $40,000, depending on how much leather stock you buy and how you store and ship it. Starting with a few popular lines can limit money tied up in stock.
How much can a small-lot leather exporter earn?
Estimates typically put monthly revenue at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your stock, order sizes and shipping costs. The idea assumes at least about 15 hours a week.
What should I check before exporting leather from Canada?
Check export permits, CITES rules for exotic skins, and the destination country's import and animal health rules. Also check storage conditions, customs and shipping arrangements, insurance, and GST/HST treatment of exports with an accountant.
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