Drop-Shipping on eBay

Drop-shipping is a method of selling in which you, the eBay trader, act as a go-between for the customer and the real seller. For instance, you advertise Acme Widgets on eBay. Jane Doe orders a widget from you and sends you the money. You turn around and order a widget directly from Acme for slightly less than Jane paid you, and have it shipped directly to Jane. Acme may even package the widget to look like it came straight from you. Retailers like drop-shipping because it saves them the considerable effort of marketing their own product, and traders like it because it allows them to run an online store without paying up front for stock or worrying about shipping. Basically, you become a salesperson for the company. Retailers who participate in drop-shipping have special programs set up to make drop-shipping quick and easy.

If you have very little money to start yourself in business as an eBay trader, but you're good at marketing, drop-shipping is ideal. Choose your drop shippers, set up your store, make your product descriptions tantalizing, and you're off!

Dealing with Drop-Shippers in Your eBay Business - An excellent overview of drop-shipping, with tips and warnings for starting your new business.

Drop Shipping Guide – Tips & Strategies - A good quick skim of the issues involved in starting your own drop-shipping business.

SaleHoo: Finding & Sourcing Resources - Resources for finding good retailers, managing third-party retailers, and other considerations when running a drop-shipping business.

Drop Shipping for eBay explains the difference between the two kinds of drop-shipping companies. It devolves into an ad for the author's services, but the information at the start of the article is essential.