Online lighting and electrical fittings shop

Homeowners, renovators, small contractors and landlords who want a wider range or better advice than a general store offers.

You sell at a markup on supplier prices, plus shipping charges. Bundles, such as lighting kits for a room, can raise the average order value.

• Product knowledge in your chosen range
• Online selling and basic website setup
• Writing clear product descriptions
• Packing and shipping

• Check that every product is certified for sale in Canada (for example CSA or another recognized certification body), as uncertified items can create legal and insurance problems
• Register for GST/HST and check how provincial sales taxes apply to online sales across provinces
• Check French-language labelling and information rules if you sell to customers in Quebec
• Check your home-based business licence needs with your municipality and whether your home insurance covers stock
• Get product liability cover, since faulty electrical items can cause serious harm
• Shipping costs, returns and breakage can eat into thin margins, especially in winter

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $3,000 to $20,000, depending on stock, website setup and storage. Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on your range and how many orders you ship.

Check that every product is certified for sale in Canada (for example CSA or another recognized body). Also check French-language labelling rules for Quebec customers, GST/HST and provincial sales tax, home-based licence needs, and product liability cover.

Product knowledge in your chosen range, online selling and basic website setup, writing clear product descriptions, and packing and shipping. The idea suggests at least about 10 hours a week.