If you’re looking at ways to boost your income or a new business venture, dropshipping could be the way forward. Research suggests that customised products are in demand, and this makes it a perfect opportunity for you. To get a better idea about UK dropshipping and how to get it off the ground, read on.
Setting up Your UK Drop Shipping Business
This post will not talk about setting up a business or tax, but the more interesting aspects of dropshipping. Here are some essentials you need to think about when implementing your dropshipping business.
Products
Products are essential, and given the rise in customisable product demand, it is important to chose products that can be customised. According to a 2015 YouGov survey, the market is currently worth a £1bn a year and rising. In 2019 dropshipping is pushing a £100bn a year. Customisable products can be anything from mugs to plates to clothing and furniture. Basically, anything you can put on a logo, a message, an image, anything that makes a product unique, can be customised as required.
This provides a lot of creative space to work with, and you can really let your imagination unleash and or develop your idea for a new product.
Choose a Good Supplier
There are several good suppliers of customisable products. Some specialise in ceramics while others textiles. Some offer the complete range. A few internet searches and you should find a few suppliers that are suitable for your business. When choosing a supplier, consider the following:
- Costs – This includes minimum orders and if there are discounts for bulk buys. Ensure you have a clear idea of all costs and price to give you a healthy profit.
- Delivery times – How soon can the company deliver the finished product to your customer.
- Returns – Ensure you are well versed how returns are handled with your supplier.
- Reputation – Are they experienced? Do they have good reviews? These are important qualities so ensure your supplier has them.
Your Online Shop
Many dropship suppliers will work with leading online e-commerce platforms. Shopify, Amazon, Magento, and Etsy should all be able to integrate the fulfilment software supplied by your supplier. If you are starting a dropshipping business, you may want to find the supplier first, determine compatible platforms, and choose one from the list.
Your shop should be easy to use and follow conversions rules. Big clear buttons in a contrasting colour to the design, a clear offering, and call to actions should feature. Your shop should be an easy fluid process for the buyer.
Marketing
Once you’ve created your products the hardest part of running your business becomes real. Marketing. Marketing will take up most of your time, although using the online sphere, you can leverage cheap advertising for mass communication.
Google Ads, including shopping ads, are a good option. Facebook ads too, are used by drop shippers all over the world. There are others which work well. Consider Pinterest, and if you use Facebook ads, you can configure your offering to go on Instagram too.
Given its low setup costs and possible rewards, dropshipping is a business model you should at least investigate. Do it right, and you could find you are making money hand over fist.
