How to Start an E-commerce Business (9 Steps to Success)
All-in-one platforms (think Shopify) have made it all too easy for anyone and their grandmother to set up shop quickly. Hear me out. There is a big difference between setting up an online store and launching a successful e-commerce business. To be successful, you’ll need to research and develop a competitive product and create a professional website with fast shipping and helpful customer service—all while building a memorable brand. I don’t want to discourage you with an extensive task list; that’s not what this is about. We’re here to help you succeed. In this article, you’ll find nine steps to start your e-commerce business on the right foot. 2. Find the right source for the product(s) Once you’ve figured out what products you want to sell, the next step is to find who will make them. You may create handmade products, work with a manufacturer, or resell existing products. Below is a brief overview of the pros and cons of different sourcing options. Creating handmade products Handmade products are perceived as high quality, so this option allows sellers to charge a premium price. You will have the most control over design and quality because you create the product in small batches. The trouble with making everything by hand is that it’s hard to scale. There are only so many widgets one person can make in a day. Working with a manufacturer to build products Working with a manufacturer will solve the growth problem, but it’s time intensive and expensive. You will look for a manufacturer, then work with them to build prototypes to your specifications and, finally, place your first order—in bulk. Wix has a good guide on how to find a manufacturer that includes a few U.S. directories and overseas directories. Just be careful not to jump at the first manufacturing opportunity that…
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