Online model railway shop

Hobbyists, collectors, returning enthusiasts and parents or grandparents buying gifts, often searching for specific scales or hard-to-find items.

You buy from trade suppliers or buy in collections and sell at a mark-up. Extra income can come from second-hand and pre-owned stock and from bundles such as starter sets.

• Good knowledge of model railways and scales
• Organised stock and order handling
• Product photography and clear listings
• Customer service by email

• Check each supplier's rules for opening a trade account, as some have minimum orders or require a track record
• Distance selling rules mean customers can usually return goods, so check the current consumer rights guidance
• Fragile items need good packaging and insurance for post; check courier cover
• Check whether a home business needs permission from your landlord or mortgage lender, and how to store stock safely
• Keep an eye on VAT registration once turnover grows
• Check the safety marking and rules for selling toys or items aimed at children

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £1,500 to £8,000, depending on how much stock you buy and the scales and brands you carry. Supplier trade accounts may have minimum orders, so check these before planning your budget.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around £500 to £4,000, depending on your range, how many orders you handle and which channels you sell through. Treat these as rough estimates, not guarantees.

Check each supplier's rules for trade accounts, as some set minimum orders. Distance selling rules mean customers can usually return goods, so read current consumer rights guidance. Also check VAT registration as turnover grows, and safety marking rules for toys.