Truck parts trade counter and stockroom

Local haulage firms, truck repair garages, mobile mechanics and fleet operators, usually on trade accounts.

You sell stocked parts at a margin above trade cost, and special-order other parts. Account customers and regular deliveries give repeat income, and speed of supply is what you charge a premium for.

• Good knowledge of commercial vehicle parts
• Stock control and ordering
• Trade sales and customer service
• Managing supplier and customer accounts

• Stock ties up cash, so start with fast-moving items and avoid slow sellers
• Check insurance for stock, premises, public liability and product liability, and employer's liability once you hire
• Check business rates, planning use class and lease terms for the unit
• Oils, batteries and other hazardous items have storage and disposal rules, so check with your council and waste carrier
• Check that parts are genuine, and agree returns and warranty terms with suppliers
• Larger fleets may expect credit terms, so plan for late payments in your cash flow

Startup costs are estimates, typically around £20,000 to £80,000, depending on the unit, fit-out, delivery van and opening stock. Stock ties up cash, so starting with fast-moving items rather than slow sellers is worth considering.

Monthly revenue is an estimate, typically around £10,000 to £50,000, depending on your location, stock range and trade accounts. Larger fleets may expect credit terms, so plan for late payments in your cash flow.

Check insurance for stock, premises, public liability and product liability, plus business rates, planning use class and lease terms. Oils, batteries and other hazardous items have storage and disposal rules, so check with your council and waste carrier.