Dropshipping
Sell online while a supplier fulfills each order directly to the customer.
Last updated
01 / Why it can workThe upside
You can test a small product selection without buying a full inventory run.
02 / Watch forThe hard part
Advertising, shipping, returns and supplier errors can erase the apparent gross margin.
03 / CostsWhat the first budget covers
Storefront, product samples, test ads and a refund reserve. Expect roughly $500–$3,500 for a lean first version, before your own living costs.
04 / First customerYour first paying step
Order a sample yourself and run a small price test only after calculating delivery and return costs.
05 / GrowthHow it grows
Keep products with positive contribution after ads and refunds, then negotiate supply and shipping terms.
Business snapshot
Dropshipping scores
Startup difficulty4/10
Operating difficulty5/10
Economic potential4/10
Scalability6/10
Resale potential3/10
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