Niche product importer from home

Independent retailers, gift shops and cafes, plus online shoppers if you also sell direct.

You buy at a supplier price, add shipping, duty and handling costs, then sell at a higher wholesale or retail price. Your margin is what is left after all landed costs.

• Negotiating with suppliers
• Spotting products people want
• Organised with paperwork and stock
• Sales and building trade accounts

• Check whether you need an EORI number and how customs duty and import VAT apply to your products (look up the commodity code on GOV.UK)
• Product safety and labelling rules vary by product, so check what marking, testing or labelling your goods need before you sell
• Some goods, such as food, plants, animal products and cosmetics, have extra import rules, so check first
• Avoid counterfeit or branded goods you have no right to sell
• Exchange rate swings, late shipments and paying suppliers upfront can squeeze cash, so keep first orders small
• Check goods in transit insurance and whether your home insurance allows stock and business use at home

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £1,500 to £8,000, depending on your product range, order sizes, shipping and storage. Exchange rate swings and paying suppliers upfront can squeeze cash, so keep first orders small.

Check whether you need an EORI number and how customs duty and import VAT apply, using the commodity code on GOV.UK. Also check product safety and labelling rules, and extra import rules for goods such as food, plants, animal products and cosmetics.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around £500 to £2,500, depending on your products, trade accounts and online sales, with at least 10 hours a week. Late shipments can disrupt cash flow, so check goods in transit insurance.