Things You'll Need:
- Long table or desk
- Storage cabinets
- Computer
- Post office box
- Phone line
- Merchant account
- Checking account
- Catalogs
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Step 1
Set up a work place that includes a long table or desk for processing your mail orders. You will also need storage area for hold promotional materials, business records and inventory.
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Step 2
Invest in a computer after you look at the software programs you want to use to run your business. There are many word processing and graphics programs you may want and you should check the requirements to ensure the computer you purchase can handle them.
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Step 3
Open a post office box and order a separate phone line in the name of your business. Both will help you separate your personal and business correspondence and help keep your personal information private.
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Step 4
Decide if you will accept credit card purchases and if so, set up your merchant account. You'll need to purchase or lease a credit card processing terminal from your credit card processor and you should shop several companies to ensure you get the best rates and terms.
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Step 5
Order your catalogs and get them distributed. Mailing lists are readily available for purchase from several reputable companies if you choose direct mail. You can also arrange to have your catalogs on display at businesses that compliment the type of product you're selling and hand them out at trade shows.
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Step 6
Open a business checking account in the name of your mail order company. It's important to keep your business income and expenses separate from your personal finances. It not only makes bookkeeping for the business easier; it's necessary for annual income tax preparation.
