Online candle wax and supplies shop

Hobby candle makers, small candle brands, craft sellers, and people making melts or other wax products at home.

You earn the margin between bulk wholesale cost and your per-pound or per-box retail price, plus extra from add-ons and starter kits. Larger orders can carry volume discounts.

• Knowing different wax types and what they are used for
• Packing and shipping heavy items
• Basic online store setup and product photos
• Inventory tracking

• Check whether your state requires sales tax registration and how to handle sales tax on online orders
• Wax is heavy, so check shipping costs carefully before setting prices
• Fragrance oils may have shipping restrictions or safety paperwork (such as safety data sheets), so check carrier rules before selling them
• General liability and product liability insurance, since customers will use your products to make their own goods
• If you store stock at home, check your lease or HOA rules and any home occupation permit rules from your city or county

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how much wax stock you buy, your store setup and packaging. These are estimates, so check supplier prices and shipping costs first.

Check whether your state requires sales tax registration and how to handle sales tax on online orders. Check carrier rules and safety paperwork for fragrance oils, and arrange general and product liability insurance. If storing stock at home, check lease, HOA and home occupation rules.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $5,000, depending on your product range, pricing and customer base. Plan for at least about 8 hours a week. Wax is heavy, so check shipping costs before setting prices.