Online DIY supplies shop

Homeowners and small tradespeople who want a better range or advice on a specific type of product than a general shop offers.

You sell at a markup over trade prices. Multi-pack bundles, project kits and repeat orders from tradespeople help lift the average order.

• Product knowledge in your chosen niche
• Basic website and photo skills
• Packing and order handling
• Customer email support

• Online selling rules on returns, refunds and clear pricing, check the current consumer rights guidance
• Heavy or bulky items can make postage costs eat your margin
• Rules on selling and posting paints, aerosols and chemicals, check with your couriers and Trading Standards
• Check whether selling electrical tools or batteries means you need to register under producer responsibility rules
• Product liability and public liability insurance, plus cover for stock stored at home
• Running from home may need permission from your landlord or mortgage lender

Startup costs are typically around £1,500 to £7,000, depending on your website, how much stock you hold and your packing supplies. These are estimates, so a narrow range can help keep early costs down.

Monthly revenue is typically around £800 to £4,000, depending on your niche, range and marketing. The estimate assumes at least about 10 hours a week. Revenue is not profit, so allow for stock and postage, as bulky items can eat into margins.

Check the current consumer rights guidance on returns, refunds and clear pricing. Check with couriers and Trading Standards on posting paints, aerosols and chemicals, and whether producer responsibility registration applies to electrical tools or batteries. Also check insurance and landlord or lender permission.