Jobsite pipe and fittings delivery service

Plumbing companies, remodelers, builders and property managers who value time on the job over a lower price.

Markup on materials, plus delivery fees or minimum order values. Standing accounts with a handful of busy contractors can give steady repeat orders.

• Knowing pipe types, sizes and fittings
• Route planning and reliable driving
• Organizing stock and orders
• Building contractor relationships

• Commercial auto insurance for a business vehicle, plus general liability coverage
• Zoning and lease rules for storing and loading inventory at a unit: check with your city or county
• Local business license and state sales tax or resale certificate rules: check your state and city
• Some solvents, primers and cements are flammable, which can limit how you store and carry them
• Heavy lifting and long lengths of pipe, so plan for safe handling and vehicle racks
• Contractors who pay slowly, so decide your credit terms early

As an estimate, startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your storage unit, how much pipe and fittings stock you carry, and the van or truck and racking you need.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on your stock range, delivery area and how many contractors become regular customers. Decide your credit terms early, since some contractors pay slowly.

Check commercial auto and general liability insurance, zoning and lease rules for storing and loading stock, and your local business license and state sales tax or resale certificate rules. Also check how flammable solvents, primers and cements must be stored and carried.