Streamline remote hardware prototyping logistics with one-click global shipping and tracking.
Remote hardware startup founders face massive challenges managing prototyping logistics, returns, and supply chain disruptions without a physical presence.
ProtoRelay connects remote founders to a vetted network of prototyping labs and couriers, automating order placement, customs handling, and real-time tracking. Founders upload specs, get instant quotes, and monitor shipments from dashboard without physical oversight. It handles returns seamlessly, reducing delays by 70%.
Founders of early-stage hardware startups operating remotely without physical facilities
Curated global lab matching with AI-optimized routing for fastest/cheapest prototypes.
supportive
Central hub showing active prototypes, shipments, and status updates.
Upload CAD files, select labs, get quotes and book instantly.
Integrated carrier APIs for live shipment updates and ETA.
Searchable database of prototyping services with reviews.
Email/SMS alerts for delays, arrivals, and issues.
Breakdown of shipping and lab fees with savings insights.
Auto-fills international shipping docs.
Invite co-founders to view/share prototypes.
Stripe auto-billing for services.
Suggests best lab/carrier combos.
| Column | Type | Nullable |
|---|---|---|
| id | uuid | No |
| text | No | |
| name | text | Yes |
| created_at | timestamp | No |
| Column | Type | Nullable |
|---|---|---|
| id | uuid | No |
| user_id | uuid | No |
| name | text | No |
| status | text | No |
| files_url | text | Yes |
| created_at | timestamp | No |
Relationships:
| Column | Type | Nullable |
|---|---|---|
| id | uuid | No |
| prototype_id | uuid | No |
| tracking_number | text | Yes |
| status | text | No |
| vendor_id | text | Yes |
| eta | timestamp | Yes |
Relationships:
| Column | Type | Nullable |
|---|---|---|
| id | text | No |
| name | text | No |
| location | text | Yes |
| rating | int | Yes |
/api/prototypesCreate new prototype project
/api/prototypesList user prototypes
/api/shipments/:idGet shipment details
/api/shipmentsBook shipment
/api/vendorsSearch vendors
/api/track/:trackingFetch tracking info
/api/users/meUser profile
No notifications
Standard support
None
| Month | Users | Conversion | MRR | ARR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month 1 | 100 | 3% | $87 | $1,044 |
| Month 6 | 600 | 7% | $1,236 | $14,832 |
End logistics nightmares for remote hardware founders. Instant lab matching, tracking, and returns in one dashboard.
DM 20 hardware founders on Twitter/X searching 'hardware prototype remote', offer free Pro access for feedback. Post in Indie Hackers 'Show IH' with demo video. Join LinkedIn 'Hardware Startups' group and share pain point post linking to waitlist.
Cheap manufacturing
No logistics management or tracking SaaS
End-to-end remote coordination beyond just manufacturing
Fast turnaround
Requires manual shipping coordination
Automated global relay and tracking
Network effects from user-rated vendor data and shared logistics insights.
Explosion of remote hardware startups post-COVID, ongoing global supply disruptions demand digital logistics layers.
Carrier API integrations fail
Start with mock data, add real APIs iteratively
Low adoption by bootstrapped founders
Free tier + targeted outreach
Vendor partnerships slow
Bootstrap with public directories first
Success: 50% express interest
Success: 20% convert to beta
Success: $500 MRR in month 1
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