Distribution Business — Startup Checklist

Pair with: https://distributionbusiness.org/how-to-start-a-distribution-business

Legal & Admin

• ☐ Choose entity type (LLC, S-Corp, etc.)
• ☐ Register business name and obtain EIN
• ☐ Open dedicated business bank account
• ☐ Register for state sales tax / reseller certificate
• ☐ Identify category-specific permits
• ☐ Secure liability insurance

Market & Plan

• ☐ Define niche and buyer segments
• ☐ Draft 12-month cash-flow and break-even
• ☐ Document supplier strategy and territory

Suppliers

• ☐ Shortlist 5–10 manufacturers
• ☐ Get MOQ, terms, MAP in writing
• ☐ Place first PO with clear Incoterms

Operations & Sales

• ☐ Warehouse model (self vs 3PL)
• ☐ Inventory + accounting software live
• ☐ 25+ target accounts; first 10 outreach

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