Online cut-to-length cable shop

Self-employed electricians, small contractors, installers, maintenance teams and keen DIYers who want exact lengths delivered.

You buy drums from wholesalers or manufacturers and sell by the metre at a margin. Extra income comes from delivery charges, bundles with clips, glands and connectors, and repeat trade accounts.

• Knowing cable types and ratings, or willingness to learn
• Organised stock and order handling
• Customer service and clear product listings

• Only buy cable from reputable suppliers and check it carries the right UK marking and meets the relevant standards, as poor-quality or counterfeit cable is a fire risk
• Product liability and public liability insurance, plus cover for stock in your storage space
• Drums are heavy and courier rates for cable can be high, so check your margins and manual handling
• Check your rights and duties for online sales, including returns rules for items cut to a customer's length
• Check any restrictions on storing stock at home with your landlord, mortgage lender or insurer

Startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on your stock range, storage space and insurance. These are estimates, so starting with a narrow range may help you keep outlay down.

Monthly revenue is typically around £1,500 to £7,500, depending on your range, pricing and order volume. Courier rates for heavy drums can be high, so check margins. The estimate starts from about 15 hours a week.

Check that cable comes from reputable suppliers, carries the right UK marking and meets relevant standards, as poor-quality or counterfeit cable is a fire risk. Also check product liability insurance and your rights and duties for online sales, including returns on cut-to-length items.