Online specialty hardware shop

DIYers, hobbyists, small contractors and makers who cannot find the exact item in a local store.

Markup on products, often sold in kits or multi-packs to raise the order value. Repeat customers and trade accounts add steady sales.

• Product knowledge in one hardware niche
• Organizing stock and shipping
• Writing clear product listings

• Register with your state for sales tax and check rules for online sales into other states
• Check whether you need a city or county business license, and HOA or lease rules for storing stock at home
• Some items such as paint, aerosols and propane have special shipping rules, so check carrier requirements or avoid them at first
• Shipping costs on heavy items can wipe out margins, so price carefully
• General liability and product liability insurance for the tools and parts you sell

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the stock you hold, your website or marketplace setup and your shipping supplies. A narrow range can help keep early costs down.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $1,000 to $8,000, depending on your niche, product range and traffic. Shipping costs on heavy items can cut into margins, so price carefully.

Check state sales tax registration and rules for online sales into other states. Look at city or county business license needs, and HOA or lease rules for storing stock at home. Paint, aerosols and propane have special shipping rules, and you should consider liability insurance.