Find Top Building Materials & Trade Supplies Near You

Building Materials & Trade Supplies

According to a market research report by Ibis World (2020), the market size of the hardware and building supplies retail industry in Australia is $22.7 billion and is expected to grow by 2.2%. The market is saturated and it can be overwhelming trying to find suppliers when prices fluctuate often. 

The purpose of this page is to connect you with the key suppliers and service providers you need to run your business. In your construction or trade business you may work alongside a mix of industry professionals and service providers such as:

• Contractors and subcontractors: A contractor is an individual or business that works directly with a client to finish a job. For bigger or specialist jobs contractors may hire others to help them. An example would be a tradesperson (also known as a tradie in Australia), e.g a carpenter or roofer, you can hire contractors or subcontractors
• Architects and design firms: Architects and design firms work with a client and design, plan and oversee the construction of a building.
• Engineers: Engineers work designing and constructing the infrastructure of a project.
• Project or construction managers: A construction manager is responsible for ensuring everything runs smoothly. They oversee the whole project from initial planning, estimating costs and hiring workers, right the way through until the job is complete. Small construction business owners may adopt this role unless you bring in a construction manager.
• Quantity surveyors: Quantity surveyors estimate the quantity and costs needed for a project.

Depending on your trade, you will also need a range of hardware, tools and building supplies such as:

• Concrete
• Steel
• Stone 
• Brick
• Timber
• Ceramic
• Paint

Your work may also require you to use tools and heavy equipment including:

• Construction vehicles
• Material handling equipment
• Earthmoving equipment

How do I find the best suppliers?

• Buy wholesale
• Enquire about payment terms 
• Build relationships with multiple suppliers
• Read supplier reviews 

Always try to buy wholesale as it’s considerably cheaper than retail pricing. Some suppliers may offer flexible payment terms which is a good option if you’re waiting for client invoices to come through. Aim to build relationships with multiple suppliers as this keeps pricing competition healthy. 

A good supplier will have your best interests and only sell you what you need. Make sure you choose a supplier that is informative and transparent. A good supplier will advise you on the best materials within your budget. Read client reviews and ensure they answer all of your questions.

If you’re working to tight deadlines, find a supplier that can accommodate this and guarantee that your materials can be delivered on time. 

What questions should I ask suppliers?

The following questions can help you determine whether a supplier is right for you.

• Where do you source your products from? 
• What is your process if I have an issue with an order?
• What will happen if my materials don’t arrive on time?
• Can you explain the difference between [x] and [y] products?
• What are the payment terms for first time and return customers?
• Is there a minimum order quantity?

If you already know what you’re looking for, simply tell us about your project and we’ll introduce you to the best suppliers and service providers that can help.

You can also browse our articles and Q&As. We have a network of construction and trade business owners, as well as expert suppliers on hand to answer any questions you may have.