Leather goods wholesaler from home

Independent boutiques, gift shops, market traders, online sellers and small brands that want ready-made stock without making it.

You buy at a factory or maker price and sell at a wholesale price, with minimum order quantities. Repeat orders from a handful of stockists are the core of the income.

• Spotting good quality leather and stitching
• Negotiating with suppliers
• Selling to shop owners
• Keeping track of stock and costs

• Import duty, GST on imports and customs paperwork, check with the Australian Border Force or a customs broker
• Products made from exotic or protected animal skins may need permits, check before buying
• Check with your local council whether running a home-based business needs approval
• Australian Consumer Law rules on product quality and country of origin claims, check with the ACCC
• Cash tied up in stock, and shipping delays or quality problems from overseas suppliers
• Public liability and product liability insurance

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how much stock you buy and the range you carry. Cash can be tied up in stock, so plan your first orders carefully.

Check import duty, GST on imports and customs paperwork with the Australian Border Force or a customs broker. Products made from exotic or protected animal skins may need permits. Also check Australian Consumer Law and country of origin rules with the ACCC.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue of typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your range, pricing and how many shops you supply. Shipping delays and quality problems can affect income. Plan on at least around 10 hours a week.