Dropshipping is one of the most popular ecommerce models for beginners. You sell products online without holding inventory. When a customer orders, the supplier ships directly to them. Here’s how to start.
How Dropshipping Works
Create a store → List products → Customer orders → Supplier ships → You keep the profit margin. Simple, but success requires strategy.
Choosing a Platform
- Shopify — Most popular, easy setup, $1/month trial
- WooCommerce — Free if you have a WordPress site, more control
- BigCommerce — Good for scaling, no transaction fees
Finding Products
Use AliExpress, CJ Dropshipping, or Spocket to find products. Focus on a specific niche rather than a general store. Test products with small ad budgets before scaling.
Marketing Your Store
Facebook and Instagram ads work best for dropshipping. Create engaging content. Build an email list. For more selling strategies, see affiliate marketing guide and side hustle ideas.
Common Mistakes
Don’t choose overly competitive products. Don’t ignore shipping times. Set realistic expectations. Test before scaling. Learn from our passive income guide for more ideas.
