Online outerwear store

Canadians who want warm or waterproof outerwear and prefer to shop online, including families, commuters and outdoor enthusiasts.

You earn the margin between wholesale and retail price on each item sold. Sales are heavily seasonal, so autumn and early winter usually matter most.

• Choosing products customers want
• Online marketing and product photography
• Inventory and order tracking
• Customer service for returns and sizing questions

• Register for GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold, and check how provincial sales tax applies to your sales
• Returns on sizing can be costly, so plan a clear return policy
• Unsold winter stock can tie up cash, so check supplier return and end-of-season terms
• Check textile labelling rules for clothing sold in Canada, including bilingual labelling
• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how much stock you buy and how you set up your shop. These are estimates, so check supplier minimums and return terms before ordering.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $5,000, depending on your range, marketing and season. This is an estimate of revenue before costs and tax, not profit. It assumes at least 8 hours a week.

Check when to register for GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold, and how provincial sales tax applies. Also check textile labelling rules, including bilingual labelling, and whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence.