Local garage door trade counter and delivery

Garage door installation companies, home builders, remodelers, property managers and contractors working in your area.

Markup on doors and parts bought from manufacturers and distributors, plus delivery fees, special orders and trade account sales.

• Product knowledge of doors, hardware and openers
• Inventory and cash flow management
• Selling to trade customers and building accounts

• Check city or county zoning, business license and sales tax registration requirements for a warehouse with customer pickup
• General liability, product liability and commercial vehicle insurance, plus workers' compensation once you hire
• Inventory ties up a lot of cash, so start with fast-moving items and special-order the rest
• Large doors and heavy springs are hard to handle, so plan safe lifting and storage
• Dealer agreements may include minimum purchases or territory rules, so read the terms carefully

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on warehouse size, how much stock you hold and your delivery van. Inventory ties up cash, so many start with fast-moving items.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $20,000 to $100,000, depending on your location, product range and how many installers, builders and contractors set up trade accounts with you.

Check city or county zoning, business license and sales tax registration for a warehouse with customer pickup. Also check insurance, including commercial vehicle and workers' compensation, dealer agreement terms, and safe handling and storage for large doors and heavy springs.