Online lumber seller (drop-ship)

Hobby woodworkers, makers, small furniture builders and craft sellers who can't easily find specific species or sizes nearby.

You set a retail price above the supplier's wholesale price plus shipping, and keep the difference. Bundles such as project packs or sample boxes can raise the order value.

• Knowing wood species and sizing
• Online selling and basic product photography
• Supplier relationships
• Customer service

• Freight and shipping costs on heavy or long boards can wipe out your margin, so quote carefully
• Sales tax registration with your state, and collecting tax on online sales, check your state's rules
• General liability and product insurance, and any local home business permit or HOA rules
• Wood is a natural product, so set clear policies on grading, defects and returns
• Some states limit shipping certain untreated wood across state lines because of pests, check with your state agriculture department
• You depend on your suppliers' quality and delivery times

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on your online store setup and supplier arrangements. These are estimates, and because you may hold little or no stock, upfront spending can stay lower.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your products, pricing and how carefully you quote freight. Estimates start at about 10 hours a week. Heavy shipping costs can cut into your margin.

Check your state's rules on sales tax registration and collecting tax on online sales. Also check general liability and product insurance, any local home business permit or HOA rules, and state limits on shipping certain untreated wood across state lines because of pests.