Small natural stone yard and distributor

Fabricators, landscapers, masons, builders, remodelers and small retailers who want local stock and quick turnaround.

You sell at a markup over your bulk purchase cost, by the pallet, ton or slab. Delivery fees and cut-to-size or sample services can add extra income.

• Buying and inventory management
• Sales and trade relationships
• Safe handling of heavy materials
• Basic bookkeeping and cash flow planning

• Cash tied up in stock: start with one or two product lines and test demand before buying more
• Check zoning, your lease terms and any local business license for a yard or warehouse
• Forklift and heavy lifting safety: check OSHA training requirements, and workers' compensation insurance once you hire
• If you cut or process stone, silica dust rules may apply, so check with OSHA or your state agency
• General liability and property or inventory insurance, plus a plan for broken or damaged stone
• Sales tax registration and resale certificates, which vary by state
• Import duties, tariffs and shipping delays if you buy from overseas

Startup cost is an estimate, typically around $30,000 to $150,000, depending on the size of the yard or warehouse, how much stone you stock, and any handling equipment. Starting with one or two product lines helps limit the cash tied up in stock.

Check zoning, your lease terms and any local business license for a yard or warehouse. Also check OSHA training for forklifts and heavy lifting, silica dust rules if you cut stone, sales tax registration and resale certificates, insurance, and import duties if you buy overseas.

Monthly revenue is an estimate, typically around $10,000 to $50,000, depending on your product range, local demand and how many trade customers you win. Expect at least 35 hours a week, plus basic bookkeeping and buying skills to manage cash flow.