Online western wear store

Riders, ranch and rodeo families, country music fans, and people buying for stampedes, weddings, line dancing and costume events.

You earn the margin between wholesale and retail price on each item, plus shipping fees where you charge them. Hats and boots carry higher prices per sale.

• Online selling and basic website setup
• Product knowledge: sizing and fit for boots and hats
• Customer service and handling returns
• Social media and photography

• Check whether you need to register for GST/HST once sales pass the small supplier threshold, and how provincial sales tax applies to online sales
• Returns on boots and hats can be costly, so set a clear returns policy
• Imported goods may involve duties and customs fees, so check the costs before pricing
• Check home-based business rules with your municipality if you store stock at home
• Sales are often seasonal, with peaks around summer stampedes, fairs and the holidays

Estimated startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $8,000 CAD, depending on whether you hold stock or use dropshipping. Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $500 to $5,000, depending on traffic and the season.

Things to check include GST/HST registration once sales pass the small supplier threshold, how provincial sales tax applies to online sales, duties and customs fees on imported goods, and home-based business rules if you store stock at home.

Useful skills include online selling and basic website setup, sizing and fit knowledge for boots and hats, customer service and handling returns, and social media. Estimates suggest at least about 8 hours a week.