Online ski and snow gear store

Australians heading to the snow here or overseas, including families, beginners and regular skiers who want to compare prices.

You sell at a markup on wholesale cost, plus shipping charges. Sales build up before and during the season, with clearance sales to move leftover stock.

• Basic online shop setup
• Product photos and descriptions
• Stock tracking and customer service

• Strong competition from big retailers and overseas websites
• Australian Consumer Law covers returns, faulty goods and accurate product claims
• Seasonal sales, so keep stock levels modest until you know what sells
• Check whether suppliers have rules on online selling or minimum advertised prices
• Insurance for stock and public liability, and GST once you reach the turnover threshold
• Postage costs on bulky items can eat into margins, so test your shipping prices

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your website setup and any storage space. Keeping stock levels modest until you know what sells can help manage costs.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the season, your range, pricing and marketing. Sales are seasonal, and the idea needs about 10 hours a week at minimum.

Check Australian Consumer Law on returns, faulty goods and accurate product claims, and whether suppliers have rules on online selling or minimum advertised prices. Also check insurance for stock and public liability, GST at the turnover threshold, and your postage costs on bulky items.