Online metal seller for makers and small shops

Hobbyist makers, welders, small fabrication shops, engineers building prototypes, woodworkers and builders who need a few pieces.

You sell at a markup over your wholesale cost, with extra charges for cutting and shipping. Repeat buyers and bundled kits (for example, a project's worth of tube and plate) lift the average order.

• Knowing metal types, grades and sizes
• Basic online store setup
• Organizing orders and supplier relationships
• Clear customer service

• Check your state's rules on sales tax registration and resale certificates
• Metal prices change, so check how often you need to update your pricing
• Heavy and long items can make shipping costly, so test freight and carrier rates before you list
• General liability and product liability insurance, especially if customers use the metal for structural work
• Check any city or county business license and home occupation rules if you store stock at home

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your store setup, initial stock and supplier arrangements. Test freight and carrier rates before you list, since heavy and long items can make shipping costly.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on your range, pricing and how many customers you reach. Metal prices change, so check how often you need to update your pricing.

Check your state's rules on sales tax registration and resale certificates. Consider general liability and product liability insurance, especially if customers use the metal for structural work, and check city or county license and home occupation rules if you store stock at home.