Online kite store

Hobbyists, parents buying for kids, beach and park visitors, and gift shoppers.

Markup on each item sold, plus higher-margin bundles such as starter sets, spare parts and replacement line.

• Basic online selling and photography
• Product knowledge about kites and wind conditions
• Packing and order tracking
• Customer service by email

• Check your state's rules on sales tax registration and collecting tax on online orders
• Check whether your city or county requires a business license or home occupation permit
• Large kites are bulky, so check shipping costs before setting prices
• Check product liability and general liability insurance, especially for products aimed at children
• Seasonal sales, with stock sitting unsold in winter in many areas

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on how much stock you buy, whether you make any house-brand items and how you set up your website. Large kites are bulky, so check shipping costs before setting prices.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on your range, your traffic and the season. Sales can be seasonal, with stock sitting unsold in winter in many areas. The estimate assumes about 8 hours a week or more.

Check your state's rules on sales tax registration and collecting tax on online orders. Also check whether your city or county requires a business license or home occupation permit, and look at product liability and general liability insurance, especially for children's products.