Launch a Computer, Peripherals, and Software Wholesaler in Saint John
This page is your practical starter guide to launching a Computer, Peripherals, and Software Merchant Wholesaler in Saint John. Under NAICS 423430, we break down the 10 requirements you’ll need to meet, plus the permits, registrations, and startup costs involved. You’ll find a clear overview of the steps from name search to business registration, insurance, and the licenses that keep your wholesale operation compliant and ready to ship.
In this guide you’ll learn the practical path: register your business, obtain a Business Number, set up GST/HST, and handle import/export needs. We map out the 10 requirements into doable tasks, outline typical costs (initial setup, licenses, and ongoing fees), and provide a realistic timeline from filing to compliance. You’ll also get tips on choosing a warehouse site and connecting with reputable suppliers.
Saint John’s port access, affordable spaces, and growing business ecosystem make this a smart starting point. The city combines logistics advantages with local support to help your wholesale venture thrive.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Saint John is Product Safety and Recall Obligations. This is legally required and you cannot operate without meeting product safety standards and having a plan to handle recalls if a problem arises. For a computer and computer peripheral equipment wholesaler, that means ensuring your products meet safety rules, keeping proper labeling, and having a clear process to notify customers and regulators about any recalls. This requirement is non-negotiable and must be in place before you start selling.
Beyond safety, there are essential operational requirements to keep your business running smoothly and safely. You’ll need to maintain a safe workplace and comply with occupational health and safety rules, which includes coverage for your employees. In Saint John, this typically means obtaining a Business Licence to operate locally and ensuring you’re covered under New Brunswick WorkSafeNB as an employer. These permits and safety obligations create the basic framework you must meet from day one.
For registration and taxes, you’ll need a few key numbers and registrations. Depending on your structure, you’ll register a New Brunswick business name (SNB) or form an NB corporation, and you may need Partnership Registration if you operate as a partnership. If you import or export merchandise, an Import/Export Business Number is required. For ongoing taxes, register for GST/HST with the Canada Revenue Agency and set up Payroll Deductions Registration if you have employees. You’ll also use your federal Business Number (BN) to interact with government programs, and ensure ongoing WorkSafeNB coverage as noted above.
You’re not alone in this—take the next steps with a simple plan. Start by confirming your business structure, then secure the necessary licences and registrations (SNB/BN, GST/HST, payroll if needed, and WorkSafeNB). Reach out to Service NB for local licensing, and to the CRA for tax numbers. With these foundatio
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a computer and computer peripheral equipment and software merchant wholesalers in Saint John:
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Product Safety and Recall Obligations RequiredWholesalers must ensure products meet Canadian safety standards and report serious incidents. Must participate in product recalls and maintain records for traceability. No registration - compliance law. Manufacturers/importers/sellers must ensure products are safe. MANDATORY REPORTING to Health Canada if: death/serious injury occurred or could occur, defects found, inadequate labeling, or recall in other jurisdiction. Keep records 6 years. Penalties: fines, seizure, criminal charges. Report incidents online or call 1-866-662-0666.
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Saint John. Apply to City of Saint John for Business Licence: 1. Determine business category 2. Complete business licence application 3. Submit required documents (ID, lease, zoning confirmation) 4. Pay application and annual fees 5. Await approval and receive licence Contact City of Saint John Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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Business Number (BN) Registration RequiredA 9-digit Business Number is required for most businesses operating in Canada. It is used to interact with the Canada Revenue Agency and other federal programs. Required for GST/HST, payroll, corporation income tax, and import/export accounts. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) at canada.ca. Takes 15-30 minutes. As of November 3, 2025, online registration is MANDATORY for new BNs - phone registration no longer available. You'll need: business name, address, owner SIN, business type, and start date. BN (9-digit number) issued INSTANTLY online. Available 21 hours/day, 7 days/week (closed 3-6am ET for maintenance).
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New Brunswick Business Name Registration (SNB) RequiredBusinesses in New Brunswick must register their business name with Service New Brunswick if operating under a name other than the owner's legal name. This applies to sole proprietorships, partnerships, and trade names. Registration provides legal recognition and is required for business operations and licensing. Registration can be completed online through SNB Online. Business name registrations for sole proprietorships and partnerships must be renewed every 5 years. To register a business name in New Brunswick: 1. Conduct name search ($13.80) 2. Complete registration through SNB Online 3. Pay $112 registration fee (includes Royal Gazette) 4. Receive certificate of business name 5. Renew every 5 years ($62) 6. Report any changes as required
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Partnership Registration ConditionalRequired for partnerships. Registration of partnerships. Register through Province of New Brunswick Corporate Registry or business services: 1. Conduct name search if applicable 2. Complete registration application 3. Submit required documents 4. Pay registration fees Contact Province of New Brunswick government services for specific requirements and fees. Annual reporting may be required.
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Import/Export Business Number ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Wholesalers engaged in importing or exporting goods must register for an import/export account with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) in addition to their CRA Business Number. As of Oct 21, 2024, register RM account through CBSA's CARM Client Portal (not CRA). Need BN9 first - get via CARM or CRA's BRO. FREE registration. Required for importing/exporting commercial goods. Ensure all business names match exactly to avoid border delays. CBSA manages RM accounts; CRA issues BN9. Contact CBSA Border Information Service: 1-800-461-9999.
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NB Corporation Registration ConditionalRequired if incorporating in New Brunswick. Incorporation under NB law. Register through Province of New Brunswick Corporate Registry or business services: 1. Conduct name search if applicable 2. Complete registration application 3. Submit required documents 4. Pay registration fees Contact Province of New Brunswick government services for specific requirements and fees. Annual reporting may be required.
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GST/HST Registration ConditionalRequired if annual taxable revenue exceeds $30,000 (small supplier threshold). Taxi/ride-share drivers must register regardless of revenue. Businesses with gross revenues over $30,000 in any single quarter or over four consecutive quarters must register for, collect, and remit GST/HST. Small suppliers (under $30,000) may register voluntarily. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when your revenue exceeds $30,000 in any 4 consecutive quarters (small supplier threshold). Takes 15-30 minutes. You MUST register within 29 days of exceeding threshold and start charging GST/HST immediately on the sale that made you exceed it. Need your BN (or get one simultaneously). As of Nov 3, 2025, online registration is mandatory. Voluntary registration available anytime for input tax credits.
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Payroll Deductions Registration ConditionalRequired if you pay salaries, wages, or other remuneration to employees. Must register before first pay period. Required if you have employees. You must withhold Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Employment Insurance (EI), and income tax from employee wages and remit to CRA. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when you hire your first employee. Takes 15-20 minutes. You'll need your Business Number (BN) or can get one simultaneously. Payroll account (RP) added to your BN instantly. Register BEFORE your first pay date. Required to deduct CPP, EI, and income tax from employee wages. For 2025: CPP rate 5.95%, EI employee rate $1.66/$100 insurable earnings.
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New Brunswick WorkSafeNB Employer Coverage ConditionalRequired if you have employees in New Brunswick. Employers in New Brunswick must register with WorkSafeNB (Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission) and maintain coverage for workers. WorkSafeNB provides insurance coverage for workplace injuries and occupational diseases. Most employers are required to register, with limited exceptions. Registration must occur within 10 days of commencing business operations or hiring the first worker. Employers pay assessments based on their classification unit rate and assessable payroll. To register with WorkSafeNB: 1. Determine if you're in a mandatory industry with 3+ workers 2. Register with WorkSafeNB online or by phone 3. Report assessable payroll annually 4. Pay premiums based on industry rate ($1.18/100 avg 2024) 5. Maintain coverage and report workplace injuries 6. Experience rating affects rate (+80% to -40%)
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