Starting out in reselling can feel overwhelming. There's a lot to get right — suppliers, stock, pricing, sales channels, and legality. This checklist breaks it all down into clear, actionable steps so you can launch with confidence and avoid the most common mistakes.
Before You Source Anything
- ✅ Define your niche — pick one or two product categories to start. Focus beats breadth every time.
- ✅ Set a starting budget — decide how much capital you're willing to deploy on your first order. Never risk money you can't afford to lose.
- ✅ Research your market — check sold listings on resale platforms to confirm demand and realistic selling prices for your chosen products.
- ✅ Understand the legal basics — reselling authentic goods is legal, but familiarise yourself with consumer rights, returns obligations, and any platform-specific rules.
Supplier Due Diligence
- ✅ Verify business registration — confirm the supplier is a registered company with a verifiable address.
- ✅ Request a sample — never commit to bulk without inspecting a unit first.
- ✅ Check authenticity markers — tags, stitching, hardware, and packaging should all match brand standards.
- ✅ Confirm stock grading — know whether you're buying new, grade A, or mixed condition before you pay.
- ✅ Use secure payment — credit card or PayPal Goods & Services for new suppliers. Avoid wire transfers until trust is established.
- ✅ Get everything in writing — pricing, quantities, delivery timelines, and returns policy should all be confirmed via email or contract.
Before You Place Your First Order
- ✅ Calculate your full cost — unit price + shipping + import duties + platform fees = your true cost per item.
- ✅ Set your target margin — aim for at least 30% net margin. If the numbers don't work, the supplier isn't right.
- ✅ Start small — place a test order at minimum quantity. Validate before you scale.
- ✅ Plan your storage — know where the stock will go before it arrives.
Setting Up Your Sales Channel
- ✅ Choose your platform — your own store, a marketplace, or both. Owning your store gives you the most control.
- ✅ Write accurate listings — clear photos, honest condition descriptions, and correct sizing information reduce returns and disputes.
- ✅ Set a returns policy — even a simple one builds buyer confidence.
- ✅ Price competitively — check live listings before you set your price. Don't race to the bottom, but don't price yourself out either.
After Your First Sale
- ✅ Track your numbers — record every cost and every sale. Know your actual margin, not just your estimated one.
- ✅ Reinvest profit — use your first profits to fund your next order rather than withdrawing everything immediately.
- ✅ Build supplier relationships — consistent, reliable buyers get better pricing and early access to new stock.
- ✅ Review and refine — what sold fast? What sat? Use that data to inform your next order.
Find Your First Supplier
The hardest part of reselling is finding a supplier you can trust. APEX SUPPLIERS does the research for you — every list is vetted and includes sourcing details, pricing guidance, and what to expect. Browse our recommended supplier lists or go straight to our Ralph Lauren supplier collection to get started.