Collectibles seller at shows and markets

Collectors, families, casual browsers and fans who like to see and handle items before buying.

You sell items at a margin over what you paid, plus you can buy and trade with other collectors at events. Costs include table fees, travel and stock.

• Knowing prices and what is in demand
• Friendly selling and haggling
• Packing and displaying stock neatly
• Basic cash and card payment handling

• Sales tax: many states require a seller's permit and tax collection at events, so check with your state's tax agency
• Some events or cities may require a vendor permit or business license, so check with the organizer and your city or county
• General liability insurance, which some events require from vendors
• Theft and damage to valuable items while transporting and displaying them
• Unpredictable sales: attendance and weather can change takings a lot

Startup costs are typically around $800 to $5,000, depending on how much stock you buy, the display gear you need and the table fees at the events you choose. Get a clear picture of fees before booking.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on which events you attend, stock, pricing and the hours you work. Attendance and weather can change takings a lot from one event to the next.

Check whether your state requires a seller's permit and tax collection at events, and whether an event or city needs a vendor permit or business license. Also check if organizers require general liability insurance, and plan for theft or damage to valuable items.