How to Run Your Own Online Store
You can start a small business by running your own online store. Your online store can stand alone, or be an extension of your brick and mortar business, where you sell products that you make, or buy for resale. Check the online competition before starting to maximize your chances of success. Find out how many other online stores are selling similar products, and look for a niche where there isn't much competition. Make a list of products that you would like to sell online, and determine the amount of profit that you're likely to make from them.
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Instructions
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Visit your state government's website and check for any regulations that need to be followed. If your state charges sales tax, set up a sales tax account. Apply for a business ID number from your state and an EIN number from the federal government. Find the information for applying for these IDs at your state and federal government websites. If you anticipate selling your products internationally, review the international trade laws for selling online, and follow the guidelines.
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Choose a domain name for your online store. Select a web host for your website that offers business support. Chose an "e-commerce in a box" program, or hire a web designer to create the online store. Design the website so that it clearly states what's being sold. Make the links to products clear and organized. Include a link to the homepage on each web page. Include pictures and detailed descriptions of the items. Take good quality pictures and include detailed descriptions of each item. Include several photos of the same item from different angles.
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Provide details on shipping with every transaction, including the time frame for shipping items and shipping procedures for your products. Purchase packing material to ship your items. Check with the United States Post Office, FedEx and UPS for their shipping requirements.
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Offer a return policy for your customers. Include information about the time frame, stocking and shipping fees for returning items. Post a privacy policy for customer's information on your website.
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Monitor your sales on a daily basis. Keep the online store catalog up to date.
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Create a marketing campaign for your online store. Register your site with search engines, and create back links to your site by writing a blog or articles about your business. Create an email newsletter that relates to your products to attract customers to your site.
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Tips & Warnings
Include any disclosures that are needed for an advertising site.
Use antivirus software to protect your site.
Follow the laws and regulations for using trademarks and intellectual property.
References
Resources
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