Local electrical supply counter and stockroom

Electricians, electrical and general contractors, builders, maintenance crews and small local retailers.

You buy in bulk from manufacturers and larger distributors and sell at a markup, with account pricing for regular customers. Delivery fees and special-order items can add income.

• Knowing electrical products and how contractors use them
• Inventory control and purchasing
• Customer service and managing trade accounts

• Large startup stock costs, and the risk of slow-moving inventory tying up cash
• Check your state and local business license, sales tax and resale certificate requirements
• General liability, product liability and property insurance, plus workers' compensation once you hire
• Check zoning and fire code rules for storing stock in your unit
• Competition from big supply houses and online sellers, so a clear local niche or service edge matters
• Extending credit to accounts that pay late

Startup costs are typically around $40,000 to $200,000, depending on the unit and how much opening stock you carry. These are estimates. Large stock costs and slow-moving inventory can tie up cash, so plan purchasing carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically around $20,000 to $100,000, depending on your local customer base, range and pricing. This is an estimate. Hours start at around 40 per week. Late-paying accounts are a risk if you extend credit.

Check your state and local business license, sales tax and resale certificate requirements. Also check zoning and fire code rules for storing stock in your unit, and general liability, product liability and property insurance, plus workers' compensation once you hire.