Online car parts and accessories store

Do-it-yourself car owners, hobbyists and enthusiasts who want the right part delivered to their door.

Markup on each part or accessory sold, plus shipping fees. Margins are often thin, so niche focus and good fitment data matter.

• Knowing cars and part numbers
• Online selling and listings
• Customer service and handling returns

• Wrong-part returns can eat your profit, so check fitment data carefully
• Sales tax rules for online sellers vary by state, check with your state tax agency
• Some parts (such as certain emissions-related items) have restrictions in some states, check before listing
• Product liability and general liability insurance, ask an insurer what you need for parts you sell

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $8,000, depending on whether you dropship or hold stock, how you build your store or marketplace listings, and the size of your niche range.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $5,000, depending on your niche, pricing and how well you market. These are estimates, not guarantees, and revenue is not the same as profit.

Check fitment data carefully to limit wrong-part returns, and look up your state's sales tax rules for online sellers. Some parts, such as certain emissions-related items, have restrictions in some states. Ask an insurer about product liability cover.