Starting an electronics resale business in Canada

RegisterBusiness registration and number

Sales taxGST/HST mandatory above $30,000 over four quarters

SuppliersOpen accounts with authorized suppliers

ChannelsWebsite, marketplaces, B2B, store

Cash flowPlan inventory turns and payment terms

Register your business

Choose a structure (sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation), register your business name and get a business number from the Canada Revenue Agency. Your accountant can advise which structure suits you.

Sales tax registration

• GST/HST: mandatory once your taxable sales exceed $30,000 over four consecutive quarters; voluntary registration earlier lets you claim input tax credits.
• QST (Quebec): same threshold, registered with Revenu Québec.
• PST (BC, Saskatchewan, Manitoba): register to collect PST and to buy inventory exempt for resale.

Environmental handling fees

Most provinces run electronics recycling programs funded by fees on new electronics. Depending on the province and your role, you may need to register with the stewardship program and charge or report fees.

Open supplier accounts

Apply with your business number and tax registrations. Authorized suppliers give you warranty-backed stock and invoices you can show to marketplaces and customers. Open an account with us.

Choose sales channels

• Your own website
• Marketplaces (Amazon.ca, Best Buy Marketplace, Walmart.ca, eBay)
• Direct sales to local businesses and schools
• A physical store

Insurance and protection

Consider general liability, product liability and inventory insurance. Electronics are high-value and attractive to thieves, so secure storage matters.

Manage cash flow

Start with fast-moving lines, reorder often in smaller quantities, and use net terms once you qualify. Track sell-through and margins by model every month.

This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice.