Online print parts and supplies shop

Small print shops, sign makers and office managers who need the right part quickly and want advice from someone who knows the machines.

A margin on each part or supply order, with repeat orders from regular shops and extra fees for phone or video support and kits.

• Knowing printer and cutter parts
• Organised stock and order handling
• Patient customer support

• Holding stock ties up cash, start with fast-moving parts and order the rest on demand
• Imported parts: check duties, taxes, exchange rate swings and delivery times
• Some brands restrict who can sell genuine parts, check supplier terms and avoid misleading brand claims
• Returns on wrong or faulty parts, set a clear return policy
• Product liability insurance and GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold
• Quebec customers may expect French-language product information, check the rules

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how much stock you buy and what you spend on your website. Starting with fast-moving parts and ordering the rest on demand helps keep stock costs down.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on your range, pricing and how many print shops you reach. That is revenue, not profit, so allow for stock, shipping and any duties on imported parts.

Check duties, taxes and delivery times on imported parts, any brand restrictions on selling genuine parts, and product liability insurance. Also check GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, and French-language expectations for Quebec customers.