Online battery store with local trade supply

Online shoppers wanting specific batteries, plus local tradies, workshops, property managers and small businesses that reorder regularly.

Markup on batteries sold online and to trade accounts, with repeat orders and delivery fees on larger local orders.

• Online selling and listings
• Stock tracking and ordering
• Customer service by phone and email

• Postal and courier rules for lithium and lead-acid batteries; check with Australia Post and your carrier before shipping
• Storing batteries at home safely, and whether your home insurance covers stock
• Council approval for running a business from home; check with your local council
• Public liability and product liability insurance
• Australian Consumer Law warranty and returns obligations, and product safety rules for items like button batteries
• Register for an ABN, and for GST once you reach the turnover threshold

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how much stock you hold, your online shop set-up and storage needs. These are estimates, so start with limited stock and reorder as sales build.

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your product range, online sales and how many regular trade customers you win. Allow at least about 10 hours a week for orders, stock and customer contact.

Check Australia Post and carrier rules for posting lithium and lead-acid batteries, safe home storage and whether home insurance covers stock, and council approval for a home business. Also check product liability insurance, Australian Consumer Law returns, and ABN and GST.