Online electronics and accessories shop

Households and individual shoppers buying everyday gadgets and replacements, plus some gift buyers.

You buy from wholesalers or distributors and sell at a higher price. Profit is the margin on each item, so choosing products and keeping postage costs under control matters.

• Knowing the products you sell
• Online listings and photos
• Customer service and handling returns
• Keeping track of stock and costs

• Product safety: electrical goods sold in the UK must meet safety and marking rules (such as UKCA or CE marking and plug and charger standards), so check with Trading Standards before listing
• Avoid unsafe or fake branded goods; buy from reputable suppliers and keep invoices
• Consumer rights and distance selling rules give customers the right to cancel and return, so check what applies to you
• WEEE rules on electrical waste and batteries may apply to sellers, so check how to register or join a compliance scheme
• Check whether you need to register for VAT as your sales grow
• Check whether you need to register with the ICO if you hold customer data, and public liability or product liability insurance

Startup costs are typically around £500 to £4,000, depending on how much stock you hold and whether suppliers post items directly to customers. These are estimates. Holding less stock keeps the upfront cost lower.

Monthly revenue is typically around £500 to £4,000, depending on your product range, pricing and how well you reach shoppers online. This is an estimate of sales, not profit, so remember to allow for stock, fees and returns.

Check product safety and marking rules for electrical goods with Trading Standards, plus consumer rights on cancellations and returns. Also check WEEE rules on electrical waste and batteries, VAT registration as sales grow, ICO registration and insurance.