Start an online belt store

Shoppers of all ages looking for a belt to finish an outfit, plus people buying gifts or uniform and costume accessories.

You buy belts at wholesale prices and sell them at retail, with extra margin from bundles, buckle swaps and gift sets.

• Spotting styles that sell
• Product photos and simple online listings
• Customer service and order handling

• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold, and check how provincial sales tax applies to your online sales
• Do not sell fake designer or licensed character belts, as trademark claims are a real risk
• Check labelling and advertising rules before calling items 'genuine leather' or giving fabric content
• Returns and size exchanges can eat into margins, so set a clear returns policy
• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $1,500 to $6,000 CAD, depending on your stock range and how you set up your shop. Set a clear returns policy, since returns and size exchanges can eat into margins.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $500 to $4,000 CAD, depending on your niche, product range and how much time you put in. Returns and size exchanges can reduce what you keep from each sale.

Things to check: GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, and how provincial sales tax applies online; trademark risk from fake designer or licensed belts; labelling and advertising rules for terms like genuine leather; and any home-based business licence.