Local measuring instruments supplier for shops and labs

Machine shops, manufacturers, testing labs, construction and HVAC firms, schools and vocational programs that buy tools regularly.

Margin on tool sales, repeat orders on consumables and replacements, and sometimes a fee for arranging calibration through a third-party lab.

• Knowledge of precision tools and standards
• Sales and relationship building
• Quoting and invoicing
• Inventory management

• Local business license and sales tax registration, check with your city, county and state
• Zoning or lease rules if you store stock at home or in a unit
• General liability and commercial auto insurance, check coverage with an agent
• Cash flow strain from carrying stock and waiting on customer payments
• Calibration and traceability claims, only promise what an accredited lab can certify
• Larger distributors can undercut on price, so service and speed are your edge

Startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on how much stock you carry, any storage space and your delivery vehicle. These are estimates. Carrying stock and waiting on customer payments can strain cash flow.

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many shops, labs and contractors you serve and how often they reorder. These are revenue estimates, not profit, so work out your own costs.

Check local business license and sales tax registration with your city, county and state, plus zoning or lease rules if you store stock at home or in a unit. Only promise calibration or traceability that an accredited lab can certify.