Online measuring tools shop for trades and workshops

Engineers, machinists, joiners, builders, small manufacturers, school and college workshops, and hobbyists who want proper kit.

You earn the margin between your trade buying price and your selling price. You can add to this with bundles, accessories and repeat orders from workshops that buy on account.

• Understanding the tools you sell and who uses them
• Online selling and product listings
• Customer service and answering technical questions
• Basic stock and order tracking

• Check which product safety and marking rules apply to what you sell, such as laser measuring tools and electrical testers
• Check whether you need to register for rules on electrical waste (WEEE) or batteries if you sell those products under your own name
• Some customers need traceable calibration certificates, so check what each product comes with and don't promise more than the supplier provides
• Consumer rights on returns and refunds apply to online sales to individuals, so check the current rules
• Tying up money in stock, so start with fast-moving items
• Check whether your landlord, mortgage lender or council needs to agree if you store stock at home

Startup costs are typically around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on how much stock you hold, your website or marketplace setup and your chosen niche. Starting with fast-moving items helps avoid tying up too much money in stock.

Monthly revenue is typically around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on your niche, your range and how many orders you win. These are estimates, not guarantees, and your supplier prices and stock costs will affect what you keep.

Check which product safety and marking rules apply, such as for laser measuring tools and electrical testers, and whether WEEE or battery registration applies to you. Also check what calibration certificates suppliers provide, and the current consumer returns and refunds rules.