Start a home-based fitness equipment bulk dealer business

Independent gyms, boutique studios, small retailers, apartment complexes, hotels and offices setting up a fitness room.

You buy at a wholesale price and sell at a markup, earning the margin on each order. Larger and repeat orders from the same buyers bring in steadier income.

• Sales and negotiation
• Organizing orders and shipping
• Knowing fitness equipment and what gyms need

• Check your state's sales tax registration and resale certificate rules, since business buyers may be exempt
• General liability and product liability insurance, as equipment can cause injuries
• Freight damage, delays and returns on heavy items, so agree who is responsible with each supplier in writing
• Some manufacturers set minimum orders or require dealer agreements, so read the terms before promising prices
• Tariffs and supplier price changes can squeeze your margin, so build in room when you quote
• Check HOA, lease or local home occupation rules if you run the business from home

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on your setup and how you find suppliers and customers. Because manufacturers ship direct, you hold little or no stock, but treat these figures as estimates.

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on order sizes and how many business buyers you win. Plan on at least about 15 hours a week. Tariffs and supplier price changes can squeeze margins.

Check your state's sales tax registration and resale certificate rules, since business buyers may be exempt. Also check insurance such as general and product liability, supplier dealer agreements and minimum orders, and any HOA, lease or home occupation rules.