Online vacuum store with expert advice

Online shoppers who want help picking a vacuum, and owners hunting for hard-to-find parts and filters.

Margin on machines and accessories sold online, with replacement parts and bundles often adding repeat orders.

• Clear writing and product knowledge
• Basic online store setup
• Customer service by email or chat

• Brand policies on online selling and minimum advertised pricing
• Sales tax collection rules across states (check your state and any states where you have sales)
• Shipping bulky items and handling returns, which can eat into margin
• Business license and home occupation rules if you store stock at home (check city or county, HOA or lease)
• General liability and product liability insurance

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000 as an estimate, depending on website setup, initial stock and marketing. Shipping bulky items and handling returns can eat into margin, so factor them in.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $8,000 as an estimate, depending on your product range, website traffic and pricing. Plan on at least about 10 hours a week for orders, advice and customer service.

Check brand policies on online selling and minimum advertised pricing, and sales tax collection rules in your state and any states where you have sales. Also check business license and home occupation rules if storing stock at home, and liability insurance.