Start an online motorsport parts and kit shop

Club-level racers, trackday drivers, karting families, small race teams and motorsport fans.

You earn the margin between trade and retail price on each item sold. Higher-value parts bring bigger orders, and apparel and accessories add steady smaller sales.

• Knowledge of motorsport and the parts people need
• Sourcing from trade suppliers
• Basic online shop management
• Customer service

• Safety-critical items such as helmets, harnesses and seats often need to meet approved standards, so check what governing bodies like Motorsport UK require
• Consumer rights on online sales, including the right to return most items, so check the rules on distance selling
• Product liability and public liability insurance, and whether your supplier's cover applies if you dropship
• Register as a sole trader or limited company and check when VAT registration applies
• Stock tied up in slow-moving parts if you hold your own inventory

Our estimates suggest startup costs typically around £500 to £5,000, depending on whether you hold stock or dropship. Monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £4,000, depending on your range and customer base.

Check which approved standards apply to safety-critical items such as helmets, harnesses and seats, including what Motorsport UK requires. Also check consumer rights on online sales, product liability cover, and when VAT registration applies.

You need knowledge of motorsport and the parts people need, sourcing from trade suppliers, basic online shop management and good customer service. Our estimates suggest at least around 8 hours a week. Holding your own stock can tie up money in slow-moving parts.