- 1). Build your website. If you are tech-savvy, you can build your own website from scratch. If you are not quite as tech-savvy, there are companies that offer e-commerce website templates, some even for free. Companies with e-commerce templates include Wordpress, Volusion and Intuit. Keep the design simple, and include information on your refund/returns policy.
- 2). Sign up for a merchant services account, such as PayPal, so you can accept credit cards.
- 3). Stock your inventory. Look for gently used clothing at second-hand shops, yard sales and thrift stores. Also look for community clothing swaps to build your inventory. Clothing should be clean and stain-free. Wash and press all your items so they will look nicer.
- 4). Consider starting with a specialized store, such as children's clothing and having it well-stocked. You can add more departments as you build your budget and your inventory.
- 5). Update your website. Add a photo, description and price for each item. Include shipping options and costs.
- 6). Keep your inventory well-organized in a spreadsheet. Include item, date purchased, price you bought it for, listing price and date sold. This will help you keep track of sales and follow trends so you know what items sell best. Many e-commerce websites have bookkeeping features built in. If yours doesn't, use QuickBooks or other accounting software to keep track of sales and taxes.
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