Home-Based leather goods supplier to shops

Independent boutiques, gift shops, souvenir stores, market traders and online retailers who want stock without dealing with overseas factories.

You buy at a trade price and sell at a wholesale price that covers freight, duty, storage and your margin. Repeat orders from retailers build steady monthly sales.

• Sales and building trade relationships
• Organising orders and stock
• Negotiating with suppliers
• Basic bookkeeping

• Importing: check Australian Border Force rules, customs duty and GST on imports, and whether you need a customs broker
• Exotic leathers (such as snake or crocodile) can have wildlife trade permit rules, check with the federal environment department
• Check Australian Consumer Law and product safety rules, and be accurate with any 'Made in Australia' or genuine leather claims
• Cash tied up in stock, and retailers paying late, so decide your payment terms up front
• Running a business from home or storing stock there may need council approval, check with your local council
• Consider product and public liability insurance

Startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on how much stock you buy, import costs and storage needs. These are estimates only, so price your own first order and shipping before you commit.

Check Australian Border Force rules, customs duty and GST on imports, and whether you need a customs broker. Check wildlife trade permits for exotic leathers, Australian Consumer Law and claim accuracy, and council approval for home storage.

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your range, pricing and how many shops you supply. Plan on at least about 10 hours a week. Cash tied up in stock and late-paying retailers need planning.