Used Computer Shop with Repairs
Open a small shop selling refurbished computers and parts, with repairs to bring customers back.
- C$15k-60k
- Full-time
- Own premises
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
A small retail unit selling tested second-hand computers, monitors and parts, with a repair bench in the back. You also buy or take trade-ins from the public and small businesses.
Your first three steps
- Research local shops and online listings to set prices and find a gap, such as business buyers or gaming PCs
- Line up reliable stock sources like office upgrades, liquidators and trade-ins
- Price out small retail units and ask your municipality what business licence and zoning apply
Who pays
Home users, students, small businesses and local organizations needing affordable equipment, plus walk-in customers needing repairs.
How it makes money
Margin on refurbished machines and parts, repair and upgrade fees, data transfer services, and bulk sales to small businesses.
Skills that help
- Computer repair and troubleshooting
- Pricing used stock
- Customer service
- Basic bookkeeping and stock tracking
Watch out for
- Commercial lease terms and rent, which can be a big fixed cost
- Commercial general liability and contents insurance
- Check your municipality for a business licence and zoning rules for retail
- Securely erasing customer and trade-in data, and following privacy rules on personal information
- Check provincial electronics recycling rules for disposing of old equipment
- Check stolen goods risks: keep records of who sold you each item
- Quiet winter or summer periods can affect footfall, so keep a cash buffer
🔒 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 open a used computer shop in Canada?
Estimated startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000 CAD, depending on your premises, stock and repair equipment. Commercial lease terms and rent can be a big fixed cost, so check them carefully.
How much can a used computer shop with repairs earn?
Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $5,000 to $25,000 CAD, depending on your stock, location and repair volume. The estimate assumes at least about 35 hours a week, and quiet seasons can affect footfall.
What licences and rules should I check for a used computer shop?
Things to check include a municipal business licence and retail zoning, commercial general liability and contents insurance, securely erasing data and privacy rules, provincial electronics recycling rules, and keeping records of who sold you each item.
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