Online futon and sofa bed store

Households and renters across the country who want space-saving furniture without visiting a store, plus college students and landlords.

Retail markup on each item, with extra margin from covers, mattresses and bedding bundles. Shipping is either built into the price or charged separately.

• Writing clear product descriptions
• Customer service by email and chat
• Basic online store setup and ad spending

• Sales tax rules for online sellers vary by state, so check where you must collect and register
• Mattress and bedding labeling and flammability rules, check with your suppliers and state agencies
• Freight damage and returns on bulky items, so agree who pays before you list a product
• General liability and product liability insurance
• Long delivery times, so state them clearly to avoid disputes

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on whether products ship from the supplier or a small rented stockroom, plus store setup and advertising spend.

Check where you must collect and register for sales tax, since rules vary by state. Also check mattress and bedding labeling and flammability rules with suppliers and state agencies, and agree who pays for freight damage and returns before listing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your products, pricing and ad spending. That is revenue, not profit. Plan for at least about 10 hours a week.