Copier supplies shop with a small storefront

Nearby offices, print and copy shops, schools, contractors and individuals who need supplies the same day.

Retail and wholesale markup on supplies, with business accounts, bulk paper discounts and delivery fees or minimums. Some shops add small services such as toner recycling drop-off.

• Inventory management and buying
• Selling to businesses and building accounts
• Basic bookkeeping and customer service

• Lease terms and rent, since slow months can be tight against online and big-box competition
• Local business license, zoning and sales tax registration, check with your city, county and state
• General liability and property insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire staff
• Money tied up in stock that sells slowly, especially toner for older models
• Check supplier terms on returns and any guarantees on remanufactured or compatible toner

Startup costs are typically around $12,000 to $60,000, depending on rent and deposits, fit-out and how much paper and toner stock you buy. Costs vary with location and the range of machines you support.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on location, business accounts and walk-in trade. Slow-selling stock and rent can squeeze results, so this is revenue, not profit.

Check your lease terms and rent, and local business license, zoning and sales tax registration with your city, county and state. Also check insurance, workers' compensation once you hire staff, and supplier return terms.