Online jeans store with fit guides

Shoppers across the country who struggle to find their fit locally and are happy to order online if sizing and returns are clear.

You buy wholesale and sell at retail price through your own website or a marketplace. Free shipping thresholds and bundles can raise the order value.

• Online selling and basic marketing
• Product photos and descriptions
• Customer service and handling returns

• Check your state's rules on seller's permits and collecting sales tax on online orders
• Returns are common with clothing, so plan for them in your pricing and cash flow
• Home storage may be affected by HOA or lease rules, and a home occupation permit may apply, so check locally
• Check whether your brands allow online resale, since some restrict it
• General liability and product or stock insurance are worth looking into

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how much opening stock you buy, your website setup, photography, and whether you store stock at home or use a fulfillment service.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $6,000, depending on your niche, range, marketing, and return rates. Returns are common with clothing, so plan for them in your pricing and cash flow. Treat these as estimates only.

Check your state's rules on seller's permits and collecting sales tax on online orders. Also check whether your brands allow online resale, whether HOA or lease rules or a home occupation permit affect home storage, and what insurance suits you.