Online welding gear and consumables shop

Hobbyists, home garage welders, students, small fab shops and farm or ranch users who prefer to order online.

You earn the markup between wholesale and retail price on each order. Bundles such as starter kits and consumable subscriptions help raise the average order value.

• Product knowledge of welding gear
• Online store setup and basic marketing
• Customer service
• Inventory and shipping organization

• Shipping rules for compressed gases and flammable items: stick to non-hazardous products unless you've checked carrier and DOT rules
• Brand agreements may limit online resale or set minimum advertised prices, so read them closely
• Product liability and general liability insurance for safety gear and equipment
• Check state sales tax registration and collection rules for online sales
• Thin margins against large marketplaces, plus returns and shipping damage on heavy items

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your opening inventory, store setup and any storage space you need. Starting with a niche, such as TIG supplies or hobbyist kits, can help you control stock costs.

Check shipping rules for compressed gases and flammable items, and stick to non-hazardous products unless you've checked carrier and DOT rules. Read brand agreements for resale limits or minimum advertised prices. Check state sales tax rules and product liability insurance.

Monthly revenue is an estimate, typically around $1,000 to $6,000, depending on your niche, product range and marketing. Margins can be thin against large marketplaces, and returns and shipping damage on heavy items can cut into profit. Plan for at least about 10 hours a week.