Dropshipping is an attractive option for those looking to start an online business with low overhead costs. Fortunately, you don’t need a large budget to get started. Technically speaking, you can start dropshipping for less than $100. With the right combination of free trials and starter plans, and a willingness to look the other way and hope for the best when it comes to the quality of your products, a little investing is all that stands between you and a dropshipping store.

What You Need to Start Dropshipping

Before you get started with dropshipping, you need to consider the costs associated with starting and running an online store. Here’s a breakdown of some of the expenses you’ll need to cover:

  • Domain name: You’ll need a domain name for your store, which typically costs around $10-$15 per year.

  • Website hosting: You’ll need a web hosting plan to store your website files. Prices range from $4 to $30+ per month, depending on the type of hosting plan you choose.

  • eCommerce platform: You’ll need to choose an eCommerce platform like Shopify or WooCommerce, which range from $29 to $299 per month.

  • Payment processing: You’ll need a payment processor to accept payments from customers. Many eCommerce platforms have built-in payment processing options, but you may need to pay a fee for each transaction.

  • Dropshipping fee: You’ll need to pay a fee to your dropshipper for each item you sell. This fee can range from 10-20% or more depending on the product and dropshipper.

  • Advertising: You’ll need to invest in advertising to promote your store and attract customers. Advertising costs can range from $5 to $500+ per month.

How to Start Dropshipping on a Budget

If you’re on a tight budget, there are several ways you can keep your startup costs low. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

  • Take advantage of free trials: Many eCommerce platforms and payment processors offer free trials. Take advantage of these to get started without paying anything upfront.

  • Look for starter plans: Many hosting providers and payment processors offer starter plans for those just starting out. These plans are usually lower cost than their standard plans, but may have some limitations.

  • Negotiate with suppliers: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with suppliers to get the best deal. Many suppliers are willing to work with startups and offer discounts on bulk orders.

  • Don’t skimp on advertising: Advertising is essential to get your store off the ground. Invest in the right advertising channels to ensure you get the most bang for your buck.

Bottom Line

Starting a dropshipping business doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right combination of free trials, starter plans, and smart spending, you can get started with less than $100. Just remember to keep an eye on the quality of your products and services to ensure you’re providing the best possible experience for your customers.