How to Start a Unique Aquarium Business

Aquarium props bring the environment to life around fish and other inhabitants.

Aquarium businesses sell tanks, filters and props for aquariums. Entrepreneurs wishing to enter the field of customized aquariums will face a series of challenges and licensing requirements. These vary by state, but resources exist to help overcome the challenges and create viable businesses around aquarium sales and service.

Things You'll Need

• Federal employer identification number
• Articles of incorporation
• Sales and use tax certificate

Instructions

1. Find a wholesale supplier of fish goods. Wholesale suppliers and distributors only sell to licensed businesses and will request the federal EIN or state sales tax certificate as proof of business status.

2. Purchase fish, tanks, filters and decorative props for the business. Customers will then buy these from the aquarium specialist at full retail cost. The discount provided by the wholesale supplier provides a profit to the aquarium business. Strive to offer strange and exotic props or tank shapes.

3. Contact your state's department of agriculture for any regulatory requirements regarding live animal sales or in-home aquarium work. Some states require a business to possess liability insurance against water or electrical damage while others might severely limit the types of fish and sales venues of animals in the state.

4. Advertise using fliers and business cards at pet stores, related retail locations such as gift shops or businesses that offer other in-home customizations. Custom home builders and interior design specialists may recommend the business to their clients and expect the same in return.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep sets of related aquarium supplies available. For instance, many users might wish to start with a basic aquarium featuring props from a certain part of the world and then expand to a more customized look.

• Read the labels on all equipment sold and cleaning products used in customized aquariums. Incompatible fish types or cleansers can cause damage or death to fish.

References

• University of Florida: Starting and Maintaining a Marine Aquarium
• U.S. Small Business Administration: Learn About Your State and Local Tax Obligations

Resources

• National Association of State Departments of Agriculture: State Directory
• U.S. Small Business Administration