Online packaging supplies for small sellers

Sell boxes, mailers and tape online to small businesses that pack and post orders, shipped from a spare room or garage.

Rolls of tape, cardboard boxes and bubble wrap stacked in a packaging supply store.
Startup costA$1.5k to A$7k
Monthly revenueA$500 to A$4k
Time needed8+ h/week
First incomeWeeks
  • A$1.5k-7k
  • Side hustle
  • Online

Estimates for a small start in Australia, not guarantees.

What it is

A web shop selling everyday packaging such as satchels, cartons, bubble wrap, tape and labels in small, affordable quantities. You can hold stock at home or have a wholesaler ship direct to your customers.

Your first three steps

  1. Pick a niche, such as satchels and boxes for online sellers, and get price lists from a few Australian wholesalers
  2. Set up a simple online shop with a small range, shipping rates and a few starter bundles
  3. Order a small first batch of your best sellers and reach out to local seller groups and market communities
Who pays

Online sellers, market stallholders, makers, small retailers and home-based businesses that post goods.

How it makes money

You buy in bulk from wholesalers and sell at a markup in packs or bundles. Repeat orders and starter bundles lift the average sale.

Skills that help
  • Basic online shop setup
  • Organised stock and order handling
  • Customer service
  • Comparing supplier prices
Watch out for
  • Register for an ABN and check when you need to register for GST
  • Bulky stock takes up space and freight can eat into margins, so check your shipping costs per product
  • Check council rules if you store stock or run a home-based business from your property
  • Large online packaging suppliers compete on price, so pick a clear niche or offer small quantities
  • Public liability and product insurance are worth checking

🔒 Full research report for Australia

Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.

Coming soon

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to start an online packaging supplies shop?

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how much stock you hold and whether suppliers ship direct to your customers. Check freight costs per product before you set prices.

How much can an online packaging supplies business earn?

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on your product range, niche and how many customers you win. This is revenue before costs, and it assumes at least about 8 hours a week.

What should I check before selling packaging supplies online?

Register for an ABN and check when you need to register for GST. Also check council rules if you store stock or run a home-based business, and look into public liability and product insurance.

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Photo: stux on Pixabay

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