Do you qualify for a trade account?
Trade accounts are strictly for businesses in the interior design, flooring, or construction trades. You will typically need to provide a business registration number, a professional website, and evidence of your trade activity. Simply owning a home you are renovating is generally not enough to qualify for a traditional trade discount.
The pros and cons
The primary benefit is price—you can often secure discounts of 10-25% off retail. However, you also take on the responsibility of trade orders: these are often final sales with limited return options, and you may be required to handle your own shipping and technical support.
How much runner do I need?
For a 13-step flight: 10 in tread + 7.5 in riser + 0.75 in wrap = 18.25 in per step. Total 237.25 in. Adding 24 in for finishing = 261.25 in (21.77 ft). Including a 10% safety margin for wastage, you should order at least 24 ft. Metric: 25 cm tread + 19 cm riser + 1.9 cm wrap = 45.9 cm per step. Total 596.7 cm, plus 60 cm = 656.7 cm. With 10% safety, aim for 7.3 m.
| Feature | Retail | Trade |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Full RRP | Discounted |
| Return Policy | Standard | Limited/None |
| Support | Full Customer Service | Professional |
| Minimum Order | Low/None | High |
Know your numbers in 30 seconds
Enter your step count, tread depth and riser height — the stair runner calculator gives you the exact length to order, in metres and feet, with waste included.
Open the stair runner calculatorNegotiating as a retail customer
If you have a large project involving multiple staircases, you might not get a 'trade' account, but you can certainly ask for a bulk discount. Don't be afraid to ask for a better price if you're ordering a significant amount.
- Ensure you meet the supplier's criteria before applying.
- Keep all business documentation organised.
- Understand the payment terms—trade accounts often have 30-day payment windows.
- Compare the total project cost, not just the discount percentage.
Alternative ways to save
If you don't qualify for a trade account, look for clearance lines, end-of-roll discounts, or seasonal sales. Often, the savings found here can rival those of a trade discount without the administrative burden of running a business account.
Whatever you decide, get the numbers first: the stair runner calculator doubles as a stair runner length calculator, adding nosing wrap, landings, winders, pattern repeat and waste so you order the right length the first time.
Still deciding on material, width or pattern? Our hub on stair runners compares weaves, widths, backings and fitting styles side by side, then hands the numbers straight to the calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a trade account for a single house renovation?
Usually no. Trade accounts are designed for professionals who order consistently.
What documentation is required?
Typically, a business registration, proof of insurance, and sometimes a portfolio of previous projects.
Are trade prices always cheaper?
Usually yes, but factor in shipping and the lack of consumer rights when it comes to returns.
Do I have to pay VAT upfront?
This depends on the supplier and your location. Most trade accounts are inclusive of VAT, but handled differently for B2B transactions.
Can my fitter order for me?
Some fitters have their own trade accounts and may be willing to order on your behalf. Discuss this as part of your initial quote.
Do trade accounts get priority support?
Yes, they often have a dedicated account manager, which can be useful if an order has a problem.
Are trade returns easier?
Often the opposite. Trade orders are usually considered final, whereas retail orders have more consumer protection.
Can I mix trade and retail?
No, you must choose your route and stick to it for any given order.
Know your numbers in 30 seconds
Enter your step count, tread depth and riser height — the stair runner calculator gives you the exact length to order, in metres and feet, with waste included.
Plan your costs with the stair runner calculatorEvery guide is written from hands-on measuring and fitting experience, checked against the calculator’s own maths, and re-reviewed whenever prices or methods change. Read our editorial standards.