Online oriental rug seller

Homeowners looking for something different from high street rugs, plus interior designers and stylists buying for client projects.

You buy rugs from importers, wholesalers or trusted overseas suppliers and sell at a mark-up. A small number of higher-priced sales each month can cover your costs.

• Knowing rug types, materials and quality
• Good photography and product descriptions
• Negotiating with suppliers
• Customer service

• Distance selling rules: check the rules on returns and cancellation rights for online sales
• Importing: check customs duty, VAT and any paperwork if buying from outside the UK
• Rules on describing rugs accurately (for example 'hand-knotted' or 'antique'), so check you can back up your claims
• Stock tied up in rugs that do not sell, so start small
• Insurance for stock, plus public liability if you sell at events

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your website and any pop-up events. Starting small can help, as unsold rugs tie up money.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £500 to £4,000, depending on how many rugs you sell and their price. The estimates start from around 8 hours a week, so results will vary with your time and stock.

Check the distance selling rules on returns and cancellation rights, and customs duty, VAT and paperwork if you import from outside the UK. Check you can back up descriptions such as 'hand-knotted' or 'antique', and insurance for stock and events.