Online outerwear store

Shoppers who want weather protection and prefer to buy online, often looking for a specific style, size range or price point.

You earn the margin between wholesale and retail price on each item sold. Seasonal demand means most sales come in fall and winter.

• Choosing products people want
• Basic online store setup
• Product photos and descriptions
• Customer service and handling returns

• Sales tax registration and collection rules, which vary by state, so check with your state's tax agency
• Returns on coats can be high because of sizing, so set a clear return policy and budget for it
• Seasonal cash flow: stock bought in summer may not sell until the cold weather arrives
• Brand authorization: some labels require approval before you can resell them, and fakes are a risk when buying from unknown sources
• General liability or product liability insurance, worth checking with an insurance broker

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on whether you hold stock or have suppliers ship directly, your website setup, and photos. Stock bought in summer may not sell until cold weather arrives.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on your products, prices, and marketing. Returns on coats can be high because of sizing, so budget for them with a clear return policy.

Check sales tax registration and collection rules with your state's tax agency, as they vary by state. Also check whether brands require authorization before you resell them, and ask an insurance broker about general liability or product liability cover.