Online metal offcuts and cut-to-size shop

Hobbyists, makers, small fabricators, repair shops, schools and product designers who need small amounts that big suppliers won't sell.

You sell by piece or by size at a markup over bulk cost, with extra charges for cutting and shipping.

• Knowing common metals and sizes
• Basic online store setup and listing
• Packing heavy items carefully

• Sales tax collection and resale certificate rules, check with your state revenue department
• General liability and product liability insurance
• Shipping costs on heavy items can wipe out margin, price shipping carefully
• Where you store and cut stock, check zoning, lease and HOA rules if working from a garage
• Safety with saws and heavy materials, use proper protective gear

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the stock you buy, your cutting setup and your store costs. These are estimates, so price a first batch of stock before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on your product range and order volume. Shipping heavy items can wipe out margin, so price shipping carefully.

Check sales tax collection and resale certificate rules with your state revenue department. Also arrange general liability and product liability insurance, check zoning, lease and HOA rules if you cut and store stock in a garage, and use proper protective gear.