Online packaging supplies shop for small sellers

Online sellers, craft businesses, small product brands and home-based shippers who need smaller quantities than big wholesalers offer.

You buy in bulk and sell in smaller packs at a markup. Bundles, starter kits and repeat orders from regular customers raise the average sale.

• Organizing inventory
• Basic online store setup
• Customer service
• Comparing supplier prices

• Check your state's rules on sales tax registration and collecting tax on sales
• Bulky, light items cost a lot to ship, so work out shipping costs per product before setting prices
• Check your lease or HOA rules if you store stock at home
• General liability and product insurance are worth checking, especially for fragile or food-contact packaging
• Thin margins against large online suppliers, so a clear niche matters

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your store setup and your storage. Using a supplier that ships for you may reduce the stock you need to hold.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $6,000, depending on your niche, pricing and how many sellers you attract. Margins can be thin against large online suppliers, so a clear niche matters.

Check your state's rules on sales tax registration and collecting tax, plus lease or HOA rules if you store stock at home. Also check general liability and product insurance, and work out shipping costs per product, since bulky items can cost a lot to ship.