Online rainwater tank shop

Home gardeners, allotment holders, smallholders and small farms who want to buy delivered tanks without visiting a builders' merchant.

The difference between supplier price and your selling price, plus delivery charges. Helpful buying guides and bundles can lift the order value.

• Online selling and basic website skills
• Writing clear product guides
• Customer service and supplier liaison

• Delivery of bulky items can be costly or damaged, so agree who handles claims with your suppliers
• Consumer rights rules on returns and distance selling, which you should check
• Register as a sole trader and keep VAT in mind as sales grow
• Check your insurance covers product liability for goods you sell

Startup costs are typically around £500 to £2,500, depending on your website or marketplace set-up and how you work with suppliers. These figures are estimates, so compare supplier terms before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around £600 to £3,000, depending on the products you list and how well you reach customers. These are estimates of revenue, not profit. You could start with around 8 hours a week.

Check consumer rights rules on returns and distance selling, and who handles claims for costly or damaged bulky deliveries. Also register as a sole trader, keep VAT in mind as sales grow, and check your insurance covers product liability.