Online paper shredder shop for offices and schools

Small offices, schools, clinics, accountants, home-based workers and local organizations that need to destroy paperwork.

Margin on each machine sold, plus repeat sales of consumables such as shredder oil, bags and spare parts. Some shops add a paid extended-support option.

• Basic online selling and product listings
• Explaining technical details in plain language
• Customer service and handling returns

• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold, and check how provincial sales tax applies to your sales
• Check that machines carry recognized electrical safety certification for Canada
• Quebec customers may require French-language website content and product information, so check the rules
• Returns, damaged freight and warranty handling can eat into margins, so agree terms with suppliers first
• Check commercial general liability and product liability cover, and your municipality's rules if you run it from home
• Check provincial rules on disposing of old electronic equipment if you offer trade-ins

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on your website, the stock you hold and whether orders ship direct from a supplier. Monthly revenue is estimated at around $800 to $4,000.

Check GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, and how provincial sales tax applies. Check machines carry recognized electrical safety certification for Canada. Quebec customers may require French-language website content and product information, so check the rules.

Useful skills are basic online selling and product listings, explaining technical details in plain language, and customer service including handling returns. Estimates suggest at least around 8 hours a week. Agree return and warranty terms with suppliers first.