Chemical and cleaning supply shop

Homeowners, pool owners, small contractors, landscapers, cleaners, restaurants and hobbyists in your area.

Retail margin on products sold, plus refills of bulk concentrates and repeat orders from small businesses that want local pickup or delivery.

• Product knowledge and safe handling
• Customer service and advice
• Inventory and ordering
• Basic bookkeeping

• Check zoning, fire department and building rules for storing chemicals at your location
• Check how your state and local authorities regulate selling certain chemicals and pesticides, as some products need registration or restrictions
• General liability and product liability insurance, and check whether your insurer covers chemical stock
• Safety data sheets, proper labeling, ventilation and storage; train anyone you hire
• Sales tax registration with your state and a local business license
• Shipping chemicals can fall under hazardous materials rules, so check before selling online

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $25,000 to $90,000, depending on your premises, the range of products you stock and how you set up safe storage. Starting with a focused range can help you keep early spending under control.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your location, product range, customer mix and pricing. Revenue is not profit, so account for stock, rent, insurance and staff costs.

Check zoning, fire department and building rules for storing chemicals at your location. Also check how your state and local authorities regulate certain chemicals and pesticides, safety data sheets and labeling, insurance cover for chemical stock, sales tax registration, a local business license, and hazardous materials rules for shipping.