I live in Massachusetts and am interested in starting a woodworking business. I would start by building some small parts to be assembled by another local shop. They’ve asked me to quote on a few things but before I can build anything for them I need to have a legitimate business with all the appropriate licenses and insurance. Problem is I am completely ignorant to what is required. i wouldn’t be installing anything at first so I don’t think I would need a contractors license. Other than that, I’m a bit clueless. I’d really appreciate any guidance I can get. Thanks.
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Replies
Scottbuilt generally license and insurance requirements are locally specific so unless someone here from Massachusetts can answer your question I think your best bet is to ask this local shop that wants to use you as a job shop parts supplier just what licenses you need and perhaps they can recommend an good insurance agent to you too.
Also it might help to call your local Small Businesses Administration office and ask them for some guidance.
And not to sound too redundant since I just mentioned it in another post here I would highly recommend you get and read Ellen Rohr's How Much Should I Charge?: Pricing Basics for Making Money Doing What You Love and her companion book Where Did The Money Go?- Easy Accounting Basics for the Business Owner Who Hates Numbers too if your just starting out.
Also a trip over to the Woodweb Business and Management forum with your questions on a woodworking (manufacturing) business might help too.
Look locally for a SCORE chapter
Service
Core
Of
Retired
Executives
They can be very helpful in just this type of situation and they willingly serves as mentors. Also, check to see if you have a local economic development agency, they will gladly assist you in establishing your business.
Also check for a small business incubator. We have one here that has small scale industrial space, a score chapter on site and provides shared services such as secretarial etc.