Online copper sheet, pipe and offcuts shop

Tradespeople, hobby metalworkers, jewellers, craft makers, small fabricators and DIYers who want small quantities.

You sell at a margin above your wholesale price, often charging extra for cutting to size, bundles of offcuts and delivery.

• Knowing the main copper products and sizes
• Selling online and writing clear product listings
• Careful packing and order handling

• Copper prices move, so check how often your supplier changes prices and how you will update yours
• If you buy back scrap or used copper, check whether you need a scrap metal dealer licence from your council, as rules differ across the UK
• Heavy and sharp-edged items: check courier weight limits, packaging and goods-in-transit insurance
• Public liability and product liability insurance, and clear descriptions so customers know the grade and thickness they are buying
• Check whether running a stock-holding business from home needs permission from your landlord, lender or council

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £1,500 to £7,500, depending on how much stock you hold and whether your supplier sends orders direct. Copper prices move, so check how you will keep your prices up to date.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on your range, pricing and how many hours you put in. Check how often your supplier changes prices, as this can affect what you earn.

If you buy back scrap or used copper, check whether you need a scrap metal dealer licence from your council. Also check courier weight limits, goods-in-transit and liability insurance, and whether running a stock-holding business from home needs permission.