Online boat accessories shop

Recreational boat owners, trailer boat fishers, small charter operators and boat hobbyists who prefer to order online.

Profit on the margin between wholesale and retail price on each item, plus postage charged to the customer. Bundles such as anchor kits or boat care packs lift the order value.

• Basic boating and equipment knowledge
• Setting up and running an online shop
• Customer service and returns handling
• Keeping track of stock and orders

• Safety equipment such as flares, lifejackets and EPIRBs is regulated, so check requirements with AMSA (Australian Maritime Safety Authority), your state or territory marine authority and, for beacons and radio equipment, ACMA before selling. Many items must meet specific standards or be registered or labelled correctly
• Australian Consumer Law covers refunds, warranties and product descriptions, so check your obligations with the ACCC
• Register for GST once turnover reaches the threshold
• Heavy or bulky items can make postage costly, so check freight costs before listing
• Check that your product liability and public liability insurance cover goods you sell

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your opening stock, website set-up and whether you ship direct from suppliers or hold stock yourself. A lean starting range keeps cash tied up to a minimum.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $500 to $5,000, depending on your range, pricing and how many orders you get. That is revenue, not profit. The estimate assumes at least about 8 hours a week.

Safety equipment such as flares, lifejackets and EPIRBs is regulated, so check requirements with AMSA, your state or territory marine authority and, for beacons and radio equipment, ACMA. Also check Australian Consumer Law, GST registration, freight costs and insurance for goods you sell.