Online stamp and philatelic dealer

Hobby collectors in Australia and overseas, people filling gaps in a collection, and beginners buying starter packs and supplies.

You buy collections and job lots cheaply, then sell them as sets or single items at a margin. You also earn from supplies such as albums and tongs.

• Knowing stamps and how to grade them
• Clear photos and honest listings
• Patient sorting and record keeping

• Forgeries and misdescribed items can lead to refunds and bad reviews, so only list what you can verify
• Check whether your state or territory has second-hand dealer rules that apply to you
• Check whether your council needs approval for a home-based business
• Postage costs and parcel insurance for valuable items
• Register for an ABN, and for GST once you reach the threshold

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $5,000, depending on how much stock you buy and the supplies and photography gear you need. Postage costs and parcel insurance for valuable items are also worth budgeting for.

Monthly revenue is typically around $400 to $3,000, depending on your stock, how well you list and photograph items, and your sales channels. These are estimates, and postage costs can reduce what you keep.

Check whether your state or territory has second-hand dealer rules that apply to you, and whether your council needs approval for a home-based business. You will need an ABN, and GST registration once you reach the threshold.