Consignment Shop With Your Own Shopfront

Sellers who want to clear items without selling them themselves, and shoppers looking for good-value or unique second-hand goods.

You keep an agreed share of each sale, commonly set in a written agreement with the seller. Some shops also charge a small intake fee or mark down unsold items over time.

• Spotting items that will sell
• Pricing fairly
• Customer service
• Basic record keeping

• Public liability insurance, plus cover for stock that belongs to other people
• Check the lease terms and whether council approval is needed for your premises and signage
• Keep clear records of who owns each item and when they are paid, as sellers' money is held by you
• Check state rules on second-hand dealers, which in some states may require a licence or record keeping
• Register for GST once your turnover reaches the threshold

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and opening stock. Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on location, the quality of items you accept and your commission.

Check your lease terms and whether council approval is needed for the premises and signage. Check state rules on second-hand dealers, which in some states may require a licence or record keeping. Look into public liability insurance and cover for other people's stock, and GST registration.

Expect typically at least around 30 hours a week, depending on opening hours. Keep clear records of who owns each item and when sellers are paid, since you hold their money. Useful skills include spotting items that sell, fair pricing and customer service.