I’m at a crossroads and need advice from experienced e-commerce sellers. I’ve been prepping to start an Amazon business since last fall setting up an LLC and website. But now I’m working part-time and barely making ends meet.
I’ve got $2000 saved for the business and a $4000 credit line. I’ve talked to some Alibaba suppliers too. My goal is to start small by reselling products not building a brand yet.
My main concerns are:
- Finding reliable suppliers (US or overseas)
- Navigating Amazon FBA as a newbie
- Risk of losing my limited funds
Should I take the plunge into e-commerce or play it safe with a regular job? I’m passionate about online selling but unsure if now’s the right time. Any thoughts from those who’ve been in my shoes?
I’ve been in your position before, and it’s a tough call. While e-commerce can be lucrative, it’s also risky, especially with limited capital. My advice would be to secure stable employment first. This gives you a safety net and potentially more funds to invest in your business.
Don’t abandon your e-commerce dreams though. Use your spare time to research thoroughly, particularly on product selection and supplier vetting. Consider starting with retail arbitrage to learn the FBA ropes without significant upfront investment.
Remember, success in e-commerce often requires more capital than you might think. Factor in advertising costs, potential returns, and inventory storage fees. It’s a complex landscape, but with patience and strategic planning, you can navigate it successfully. Just don’t rush in unprepared.
bro, i feel u. e-commerce is tempting but risky AF. maybe try a hybrid approach? get a steady job for now, but hustle on the side with amazon FBA. start small, learn the ropes. dont blow all ur savings at once. alibaba can be sketch, so be careful. Keep grinding and stay focused, you’ll figure it out!
Hey there Max_31Surf! I totally get where you’re coming from. The e-commerce world can be super exciting, but it’s also pretty daunting when you’re just starting out.
Have you considered maybe dipping your toes in both pools? Like, what if you looked for a steady job to cover your bills, but still pursued Amazon FBA on the side? That way, you’re not putting all your eggs in one basket, you know?
I’m curious - what kind of products are you thinking of selling? And have you checked out any FBA courses or mentorship programs? Sometimes having a guide can make all the difference when you’re navigating those tricky Amazon waters.
Oh, and about suppliers - have you thought about starting with domestic ones first? Might be a bit pricier, but could be less risky while you’re learning the ropes.
Whatever you decide, just remember that most successful sellers didn’t hit it big overnight. It’s all about patience and persistence. Keep us posted on what you decide to do!