Local plastic sheeting supplier with delivery

General contractors, roofers, remodelers, farms, nurseries, landscapers and local hardware or equipment dealers.

You buy rolls in bulk at lower prices and sell by the roll or by the foot at a markup. Delivery fees, cut-to-size service and repeat contractor accounts add steady income.

• Building relationships with contractors and farmers
• Managing stock and cash flow
• Safe handling of heavy rolls and delivery driving

• Stock ties up cash, so start with the few sizes that sell fastest
• Check zoning and your lease for warehouse use, and fire code rules for storing plastic
• Insurance: general liability, commercial auto for delivery, and cover for stock; workers' compensation once you hire
• Heavy rolls need safe lifting and, if you use a forklift, check OSHA operator training requirements
• Check your city or county for any local business license, and your state for sales tax and resale certificate rules
• Some projects need specific grades such as fire-retardant or vapor barrier film, so check specs before recommending a product

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your unit, delivery vehicle and opening stock. Stock ties up cash, so consider starting with the few sizes that sell fastest.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on your customer base, product range and delivery area. That is revenue before stock, rent, fuel and insurance costs.

Check zoning and your lease for warehouse use, and fire code rules for storing plastic. Also check insurance, OSHA forklift operator training if you use a forklift, and your local business license and state sales tax and resale certificate rules.