Online electric motor and spares shop

Small workshops, maintenance teams, farms, electricians and engineers, plus DIY and hobby buyers looking for a replacement motor.

You buy from distributors or manufacturers and sell at a margin, with extra from accessories and quick delivery. Trade accounts can bring repeat orders.

• Basic technical knowledge of motors
• Customer service and advice by email or phone
• Order handling and stock control

• Check the product safety, marking and electrical equipment rules that apply to what you sell, and that your suppliers supply the right paperwork
• Check your responsibilities for electrical waste (WEEE) when selling electrical equipment
• Consumer returns and refund rules apply to online sales to individuals, so check them
• Public liability and product liability insurance are worth checking before you sell
• Customers may order the wrong motor, so give clear specifications and be ready for returns
• Storing stock at home may need permission from your landlord or mortgage lender

Startup costs are typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on how much stock you hold, your website and whether suppliers deliver direct to customers. Treat this as an estimate and price your own range before committing.

Check the product safety, marking and electrical equipment rules that apply to what you sell, and that suppliers provide the right paperwork. Also check your WEEE responsibilities and the consumer returns and refund rules for sales to individuals.

Monthly revenue is typically around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on your range, pricing and how well you reach workshops and trades. That is an estimate of revenue, not profit, and you could start at around 10 hours a week.