Start Your Computer and Software Merchant Wholesaler in Surrey
This page walks you through launching a Computer and Computer Peripheral Equipment and Software Merchant Wholesaler business in Surrey (NAICS 423430). You’ll find a practical, step‑by‑step overview of the 8 requirements you’ll meet, plus the permits, registrations, and costs that go with starting a wholesale operation. It’s designed to be actionable, not overwhelming, with a clear path from idea to launch.
You’ll learn exactly which permits and registrations you need: a Surrey business license, a CRA Business Number (BN) with a GST/HST account, and any industry or municipal permits. We cover the typical setup costs (license fees, incorporations or registrations if you choose a company, basic insurance, and WorkSafeBC coverage) and the ongoing costs you should plan for (taxes, payroll withholding if you hire, and compliance). We also map a realistic timeline—most owners move from plan to permit‑ready within a few weeks, with final licensing and supplier onboarding taking a bit longer.
Surrey is a strong fit for wholesale tech and software because of its growing business ecosystem, transportation access, and proximity to Vancouver’s markets. The city’s supportive small‑business climate makes it easier to connect with suppliers and customers in the Lower Mainland, while the 423430 wholesale model scales well as you build inventory and relationships.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Surrey is Product Safety and Recall Obligations. This means you must meet product safety laws and have a clear plan for any recalls. It’s non-negotiable—regulators require safe products and proper recall procedures, especially for computer equipment and accessories that customers rely on every day. Build compliance into your operations from day one to avoid penalties, disruption, or loss of trust.
Mandatory Operational Requirements: Health, safety and permits. If you employ people, you’ll need WorkSafeBC coverage and to stay up to date on premiums. You’ll also want a City of Surrey business licence to legally operate within the city, and ensure proper handling and storage of products to meet safety standards. These are essential day-to-day controls that protect staff and customers and keep your business running smoothly.
Business Registration & Tax: The backbone is a Business Number (BN) from the CRA for tax accounts and government programs. If you’re using a trade name in British Columbia, register your BC Business Name (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership). For imports/exports, you may need an Import/Export Business Number. Plan for GST/HST registration if your taxable revenue exceeds the small-supplier threshold, and set up Payroll Deductions Registration if you have employees.
Encouragement: Start with the essentials by checking Surrey’s licensing requirements, then set up your BN and associated tax accounts. Gather the necessary documents, apply in parallel, and build a simple compliance calendar. If you’d like, I can map out a step-by-step checklist tailored to your exact product mix and team size to keep you moving confidently forward.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a computer and computer peripheral equipment and software merchant wholesalers in Surrey:
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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 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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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Surrey. Apply to City of Surrey 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 Surrey Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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BC Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership) RequiredRegistration of sole proprietorship or partnership business names with BC Registries Register sole proprietorship or partnership at bcregistry.gov.bc.ca. Name reservation: $30 (standard) or $100 (priority 1-2 days). Registration fee: $40. Total: ~$70. Name reserved for 56 days after approval. Registration is continuous (no renewal required). No name protection for sole proprietorships. Personal names operating under own name do not require registration. Contact BC Registries: 1-877-526-1526.
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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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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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WorkSafeBC Coverage and Registration ConditionalRequired if you have workers in BC. Workers compensation insurance coverage through WorkSafeBC for employers in British Columbia WorkSafeBC coverage required for most BC employers. Average base premium rate: 1.55% of assessable payroll ($1.55 per $100). Register online at worksafebc.com. Apply 30 days before starting business or hiring workers. Processing: ~10 business days. Premium rates vary by industry classification (514 classification units). COR certified employers eligible for 10% rebate. Contact: 604-276-3100 or 1-888-967-5377.
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