Used equipment buy-and-export trader

Overseas dealers and end users, often found through online marketplaces, trade contacts and repeat buyers.

The margin between your purchase price plus costs (repairs, storage, freight, fees) and the selling price.

• Judging equipment condition and value
• Negotiating at auctions and with buyers
• Managing cash, costs and shipping schedules

• You carry the stock risk: equipment may sell slowly or for less than you expect, and your cash is tied up in stock until it sells
• Check CBSA export reporting and whether any goods need export permits; check sanctions rules
• Check destination country import rules, such as age, emissions and safety standards
• Currency swings, freight price changes and payment risk; consider secure payment terms
• Check municipal zoning for storage, plus commercial general liability, cargo and property insurance
• Confirm the seller has clear title, since equipment may be financed or leased

Startup costs are typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on the equipment you buy, your storage space and your shipping costs. These are estimates, and your cash is tied up in stock until it sells.

Check CBSA export reporting, whether goods need export permits, and sanctions rules. Check destination import rules such as age, emissions and safety standards, municipal zoning for storage, insurance, and that the seller has clear title, as equipment may be financed or leased.

Monthly revenue is typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on what you buy, your margins and how quickly stock sells. You carry the stock risk, as equipment may sell slowly or for less than expected. Plan on at least about 15 hours a week.