Online fixings and tools shop

DIYers, hobbyists, small trade businesses and renters who want a hard-to-find item or a handy kit without a trip to a big store.

You sell products at a markup, often in bundles or kits that earn more per order. Repeat orders from tradies and small businesses help steady the income.

• Choosing products people need
• Online shop setup and photos
• Packing and order management
• Customer service by email or chat

• Heavy and bulky items can make postage costly, so check courier rates before pricing
• Electrical and gas items must meet Australian safety standards, check with your state regulator before selling
• Consumer law on refunds, returns and faulty goods
• Council approval if you run the business from home or store lots of stock there
• Public liability and product liability insurance
• Register for GST once turnover reaches the threshold

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on your website setup, the range of stock you buy and packaging supplies. A narrow product range can help keep the starting amount lower.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your product range, pricing and marketing. This is revenue, not profit, and postage on heavy or bulky items can reduce your margin.

Check that electrical and gas items meet Australian safety standards with your state regulator before selling. Also check consumer law on refunds, returns and faulty goods, council approval if you run from home or store lots of stock there, insurance, and GST registration.