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15 Dropshipping Business Ideas to Earn More Money
Written by: Victoria Yu
Victoria is a business writer with a mission to help guide new entrepreneurs through starting and running their successful businesses.
Edited by: David Lepeska
David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.
Published on December 25, 2022
Looking to start your own business but don’t have the space to store inventory? Dropshipping might be the answer for you.
In dropshipping, incoming orders are sent to a manufacturer that ships the product straight to the customer’s door. It eliminates the need for building up inventory or storing your goods – significantly cutting time and costs. By acting as an intermediary between customer and producer, you can make great money and efficiently provide people with great products.
The big question, of course, is what will you sell? The possibilities are almost endless. You could start by reading our list of promising dropshipping business ideas and thinking about which suits you best.
1. Sustainable Clothing & Virtual Try-on
When thinking about a fresh approach to a dropshipping business, especially in the fashion world, I’d lean into the latest trends and personal style.
My focus would be on creating a boutique-like experience online featuring fashion-forward, sustainable clothing lines — from upcycled vintage pieces to eco-friendly new trends.
The key would be curating a collection that’s not just trendy but also tells a story. Each piece would be selected for its uniqueness and ethical production. The website and social media channels would look more like a fashion magazine and a sustainability guide than a regular storefront. For example, they could offer behind-the-scenes looks at how products are made aside from products and features on the latest fashion trends.
Community engagement would play a huge role. I’d create a platform where customers can share their own style stories and tips, maybe even showcasing how they’ve styled our pieces. Hosting live virtual fashion shows and Q&A sessions with eco-conscious designers could create buzz and deepen customer engagement.
To make the shopping experience seamless, I’d incorporate user-friendly tech features. A virtual try-on option, for instance, could give customers a sense of how clothes would look on them. Plus, a “style assistant” chatbot could offer personalized fashion advice, helping customers pick outfits based on their preferences and recent trends.
Adam Hardingham, CEO of Rivmedia (Company LinkedIn)
2. Targeting Underserved Audience
I’ve found good luck zeroing in on specialized markets where folks are enthusiastic, but their needs must be met better. One thing that gives my business an edge is building tight ties with manufacturers to keep product quality and delivery on point.
Looking ahead to 2024, watch out for green and sustainable goods catching on more and customized stuff tailored to individuals. Getting creative with marketing and customer connections gives me a real boost, too. Using social ads and teaming up with influencers has exploded my sales and name recognition.
The primary keys are staying flexible as things shift and keeping close tabs on new trends. It would be best if you rode the waves in this industry to avoid getting drowned out long-term.
But tune into the niche crowds whose specific wants have not been answered. Meet their needs with reliable stock and some imagination, and you can build loyal followers even in a crowded field.
Find those untapped markets and give them what they’re missing — if you do that and adapt as the landscape changes, you’ll keep growing well into 2024 and beyond.
Tom Smith, marketing manager at Nirvana Super™
3. Exploiting International Shipping for Niche Success
As a seasoned expert in the dropshipping industry with SFL Worldwide, we’ve witnessed thriving dropshipping businesses leveraging international shipping for competitive advantage. One notable success story involves a niche in personalized tech accessories. By collaborating with overseas manufacturers, our client seamlessly delivers unique, custom-designed gadgets globally. This not only taps into the growing trend of personalized products but also capitalizes on cost-effective international shipping solutions. Additionally, capitalizing on eco-friendly products and sustainable practices is an emerging trend for 2024, as environmentally conscious consumers seek responsible options. Successful dropshippers in our network have embraced this, aligning their inventory with sustainability, garnering customer loyalty, and boosting profits.
Purveen Shah, owner of SFL Worldwide
4. Unveiling Micro-Niches & Predicting Future Trends
One lucrative strategy that’s often overlooked is leveraging data analytics. Beyond just identifying top-performing niches, smart data usage can guide material sourcing strategies, optimize pricing, and predict emerging customer trends.
For instance, within my operations, we use data profiling to uncover micro-niches within larger markets. This allows us to cater to under-serviced customers effectively by offering specific products they truly desire, as opposed to merely following general industry trends. Accurate data interpretation can also chart the path for 2024 trends. The mile markers could include sustainability preferences, increasing localization in buying habits, or augmented reality
integration into customer experiences.
In the dropshipping realm, data isn’t just a tool — it’s the compass guiding your entrepreneurial journey. Mastering this compass, you can navigate larger markets’ complexity and find untapped profitability in Micro-niches.
Michael Giannulis, CEO of Lead Engine Labs (Twitter)
5. Work-From-Home-Inspired Products
WFH-inspired hoodies are in alignment with the current workplace landscape.
38% of all working Americans are freelancers, according to a report by Upwork.
This means that there is a demand for WFH-related and WFH-adjacent products and services.
From WFH stylish hoodies for micro niche communities (e.g., black mothers who work from home) to remote work staffing agencies, there are tons of auxiliary businesses popping up.
That said, beginning dropshippers should focus on super-micro niche communities and use data to support their creative hunches.
Gabrielle Pickens, entrepreneur, Pickens Creative LLC
6. Creative Fandom Merchandise
I would like to provide insights into the query based on my experience of starting several side hustles and dropshipping businesses that have helped me amass huge profits over the years.
Fandom products are something that covers a large range of customers worldwide. This could potentially be one of the best dropshipping businesses that you can start investing in. The best part of this is the fact that you don’t have to choose a specific topic or niche. You can offer products based on various topics like movies, TV shows, cartoons, video games, books, toys, etc. By selling keychains, mobile covers, customized bookmarks, clothing merchandise, stationary goods, and more, you can earn lots of profit on this one.
Ray Pierce, founder & CEO of Zippy Cash For Cars
7. Jewelry and Accessories for Everyone
Jewelry and accessories dropshipping is a high-value industry that reached over $21.5 billion in 2020 in market value. It’s expected to increase up to $60 billion in revenue by the year 2027 and this is the best time to capitalize on it. Although you might think this niche is popular just among women, there is always the right kind of ring, bracelet, and necklace for different genders and ages, respectively.
Dan Fried, CEO of Specialty Metals (Facebook, Twitter)
8. Embracing Unique Niches and Sustainability
Our success in the dropshipping industry came from prioritizing unique niches and leveraging creative strategies. We offer customizable engraved roses with special messages, which cater to the emotional and gifting niche. We also partner with local artisans for handcrafted rose-related products, and that fosters exclusivity.
Embracing eco-friendly practices completely aligns with emerging 2024 trends. Our commitment to quality and sustainability has set us apart in the rose delivery business but is also a recipe for creating a flourishing and conscious dropshipping business, regardless of the niche.
David Cohen, CEO of Love Rose
9. Eco-Friendly and Reusable Goods
Curating a store with sustainable products (reusable stuff, biodegradable goods, ethically sourced items) resonates with me. From eco-friendly home decor to zero-waste essentials — the possibilities are virtually endless and very exciting. Knowing I contribute to a greener world while running a business feels fulfilling.
If you connect with reliable suppliers committed to sustainability, it ensures you provide eco-conscious choices to customers. Venturing into dropshipping with an eco-friendly focus also allows me to make a positive impact through conscious consumer choices. And, in the end, it’s more than business — it’s a sustainable lifestyle journey.
Mike Falahee, owner of Marygrove Awnings
10. Organic and Sustainably Grown Cannabis
As an ambassador of Homegrown Cannabis Co., I’ve had the opportunity to witness the immense success and potential of the dropshipping business model in the cannabis industry. We have a unique approach to dropshipping, which sets us apart.
One of the key strategies is focusing on a specific niche within the cannabis industry. We specialize in cannabis seeds and offer a wide variety of strains, so we can cater even to the most demanding and specific customers. This way, we’ve built a loyal customer base while also establishing ourselves as a trusted source of cannabis seeds of the highest quality.
We believe that the demand for organic and sustainably grown cannabis will continue to rise in 2024. As more people become conscious of the environmental and health implications of their choices, there will be a growing demand for cannabis products that are produced organically and sustainably. You can jump on the opportunity to partner with organic cannabis growers!
Creativity is also a crucial aspect of thriving in the dropshipping industry. We use different marketing strategies, from influencer partnerships to social media campaigns.
Also, we have implemented a streamlined order fulfillment process to ensure that our customers receive their products on time.
Ayman Dandashi, ambassador of Homegrown Cannabis Co.
11. High-Ticket Dropshipping
I have been running electricwheelchairsusa.com for over five years now. It’s a high-ticket dropshipping store, and I couldn’t recommend this business enough to people.
It’s so much better than shipping dropshipping stuff from China. High-ticket dropshipping is more like a real business. The product qualities are great. On average, you make around $200 per sale, and you have actual contracts with suppliers and more.
Some high ticket dropshipping niche ideas from the top of my head are electric bikes, roof top tents, massage chairs, and saunas.
Kellon Ambrose, founder of Electric Wheelchairs USA
12. Collaborating With Local Suppliers
One of the unique approaches I have for my business is using local connections. I don’t ship products from far away. Instead, I’ve teamed up with local suppliers. This way, I can deliver items faster to my customers.
People like getting their items quickly, and supporting local businesses feels good. You still sell online, but the products come from nearby. This makes shipping faster and builds a connection with your community. It’s like helping your neighbors while running your online shop.
Albert Vaisman, founder of Soxy.com
13. Strategic Product Bundling and Niche Selection
I like offering enticing product bundles to provide customers with high value at a lower cost. This reduces shipping expenses while attracting a broader audience. It’s essential to ensure that bundled products align with customer needs. This creates a more trustworthy shopping experience.
When considering niche ideas, I prefer focusing on areas with low product turnover. This allows me to invest in a durable website. It then remains relevant over time. Additionally, I find success in selling consumable or disposable products. This encourages repeat business.
Making use of existing customer trust makes it easier to build a profitable business with recurring revenue.
Nicole Bolton, fashion designer & co-founder of Iconic Celebrity Outfits
14. Car Accessories
Car accessories are one of the best dropshipping niches. This market has a value of nearly $500 billion. There is a lot of variety within this niche — anything from phone holders to car seats.
It is a great investment because you can reach both car enthusiasts and regular car owners.
Adding some small element of customization will set your drop-shipping business apart. For instance, you can brand wheel covers or phone holders that you may be selling. This will help you build a loyal customer base.
You should use an SEO tool like Semrush before establishing your business to give you deeper insights and help your decision-making. However, just using Google Trends can also give you a good idea of what your approach should be.
Jessica Shee, marketing manager at iBoysoft
15. Smart Gadgets & Wellness Products
Running my dropshipping business has been a learning experience. I’ve done well with eco-friendly stuff, workout gear, and personalized items. Lately, I’ve seen a surge in tech products, especially smart home gadgets and wearables. People are all about convenience, so these things are flying off the shelves.
Health and wellness products, like mental health stuff and supplements, are also getting popular. To stay on top, you’ve gotta keep an eye on what’s trending, be flexible, and offer customers something new and useful.
Sean Philips, founder & CEO of Flightradar Online
15 Dropshipping Business Ideas to Earn More Money
- Sustainable Clothing & Virtual Try-on
- Targeting Underserved Audience
- Exploiting International Shipping for Niche Success
- Unveiling Micro-Niches & Predicting Future Trends
- Work-From-Home-Inspired Products
- Creative Fandom Merchandise
- Jewelry and Accessories for Everyone
- Embracing Unique Niches and Sustainability
- Eco-Friendly and Reusable Goods
- Organic and Sustainably Grown Cannabis
- High-Ticket Dropshipping
- Collaborating With Local Suppliers
- Strategic Product Bundling and Niche Selection
- Car Accessories
- Smart Gadgets & Wellness Products
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