Local office and school supply wholesaler

Schools and school districts, small and mid-size offices, medical and dental practices, and independent retailers in your county.

You sell at a markup over bulk cost, with recurring orders from accounts on weekly or monthly delivery. Larger accounts bring steadier revenue and better supplier pricing.

• Sales and account management
• Inventory and order organization
• Driving and route planning

• Check state and local business license and sales tax requirements, and zoning for your warehouse
• General liability, commercial auto and stock insurance, plus workers' compensation if you hire
• Schools and public bodies may require bids, vendor registration or payment terms of 30 days or more, which affects cash flow
• Competition from big office supply chains and online sellers, so focus on service and local relationships
• Rent, fuel and unsold stock can add up before accounts build

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on warehouse rent, stock, vehicle and insurance. Rent, fuel and unsold stock can add up before accounts build.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your accounts, route and stock range. Schools and public bodies may require bids, vendor registration or payment terms of 30 days or more, which affects cash flow.

Check state and local business license and sales tax requirements, and zoning for your warehouse. Also check general liability, commercial auto and stock insurance, plus workers' compensation if you hire.