Online clothing wholesaler for small shops

Independent clothing shops, market stallholders, online resellers and small boutiques that cannot buy direct from big manufacturers.

You sell at a trade price above what you paid, often with minimum order values. Your margin is the gap between buying and selling price, minus shipping, storage and returns.

• Spotting fashion trends
• Negotiating with suppliers
• Stock and order tracking
• Building trade customer relationships

• Register as a sole trader or limited company, and check when VAT registration becomes compulsory for your turnover
• Check that products meet UK labelling and safety rules, especially children's clothing (for example flammability and cords)
• Check imported stock for customs duty and import paperwork, and avoid counterfeit or unlicensed branded goods
• Unsold seasonal stock can tie up your cash, so start with small orders
• Check insurance for stock stored at home, and whether your landlord or mortgage lender allows it

Startup costs are typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on the size of your first orders, your trade website and where you store stock. These are estimates, so starting with small orders can help protect your cash.

Check whether to register as a sole trader or limited company and when VAT registration becomes compulsory. Also check UK labelling and safety rules, especially for children's clothing, and customs duty and paperwork on any imported stock.

Monthly revenue is typically around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on your range, pricing and how many trade customers you win. The idea is estimated to need from around 10 hours a week.