Online model aircraft shop

Hobbyists, RC flying club members, collectors and parents buying a first kit for a teen.

You earn the margin between wholesale and retail price on each sale, plus extra from accessories and bundles such as a starter plane with batteries and a charger.

• Knowledge of model aircraft and RC gear
• Basic online selling and photography
• Packing and shipping carefully

• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold, and check how provincial sales tax applies to your sales
• Lithium batteries have shipping restrictions, so check carrier rules before you sell them
• Check Transport Canada's rules for drones and larger RC aircraft, and make sure you describe products accurately
• Stock can tie up cash, so start small and watch your slow sellers
• Check whether Quebec's French-language rules apply if you sell to customers there

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on how much stock you hold yourself and how much suppliers ship directly. Starting small helps, because stock can tie up your cash.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on your product range, how many customers you attract and the time you put in. Watch slow sellers, as unsold stock ties up cash.

Check GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, and how provincial sales tax applies. Also check carrier rules for lithium batteries, Transport Canada's rules for drones and larger RC aircraft, and Quebec's French-language rules if you sell there.