Small timber frame supply yard

Local builders, joiners, roofers, groundworkers and self-build customers who need timber quickly and nearby.

You buy in bulk and sell at a margin, with extra charges for cutting, treatment and delivery. Trade accounts with regular builders give repeat orders.

• Knowledge of timber and framing components
• Safe use of saws and lifting equipment
• Stock control and pricing
• Customer service with trade buyers

• Check planning and business rates for your site, and whether your lease allows timber storage and cutting
• Fire risk with stored timber and sawdust. Ask your insurer and the fire service for advice
• Training and insurance for forklifts, saws and manual handling
• A van or lorry may bring extra rules. Check goods vehicle operator licensing if you plan to go over 3.5 tonnes
• Check that structural timber is graded and marked correctly, and the timber legality due diligence rules
• Trade credit can leave you short of cash if builders pay late. Consider credit checks and clear payment terms
• Product liability, public liability, stock and goods in transit insurance, plus employer's liability once you hire

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £70,000, depending on the size of your unit or yard, how much stock you buy in, and your equipment and vehicle. Check lease terms and insurance costs before committing.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £8,000 to £30,000, depending on your stock range, how many local trade customers you win and whether you add made-up panels or packs. Revenue is not profit, so allow for stock, rent and delivery costs.

Check planning, business rates and whether your lease allows timber storage and cutting. Ask your insurer and the fire service about fire risk. Check training for forklifts and saws, goods vehicle operator licensing if over 3.5 tonnes, and timber grading and legality rules.