A decade ago, the dropshipping model was virtually unheard of, but by 2026, the dropshipping market will be worth as much as $476 Billion. Do you want to be part of that staggering growth?

You’ll need to know the steps to getting your business started from scratch because you only have one opportunity to get your launch right.

Here is our straightforward guide on starting a dropshipping company in 2022. 

Choose an In-Demand Niche

The great thing about launching a small business online is that you can focus on a tiny and unusual niche and still make plenty of money. A small niche is an ideal strategy because it will help you laser-target your marketing.

Start by researching niches with good demand but low or weak competition. Signs of weak competitors are multiple small businesses without solid brand recognition. 

Find Trending Products

A successful dropshipping business is about selling the right product at the right time! Start by searching places like Google Trends and Pinterest Trends to see what customers search online.

Take a look at big marketplaces like Amazon and Alibaba and browse through current trending products to see where the demand is. 

Research Your Customer

Take time to find out who your customer is and what they want. Get specific with your research. Dive deep into the features they want to see in a product and the product itself.

For example, if you are selling garden furniture, find out what customers dislike about products already selling online. That will help you identify gaps that could give your dropshipping company the edge over your competitors. 

Find a Reliable Dropshipping Supplier

Once you’ve done your product and customer research, it’s time to find a supplier. 

You could opt for an overseas supplier like one of the many Chinese manufacturers who offer to dropship. But you will need to allow extra time for shipping (even though fast-track shipping is often available for a fee).

Don’t rule out US dropshipping companies, as thousands are covering a vast number of product niches. And before making a final decision, order a sample product to test the quality before placing a big order. 

You’ll also need to think about the packaging you want for your product, as this will shape your brand and your business reputation. Check out this packaging company for more information. 

Set up Your Website

Before launching your dropshipping company, you’ll need to set up an eCommerce website.

The two main options are a website via Shopify or a WordPress website using WooCommerce. Shopify is probably the more straightforward option if you don’t have a technical background.

Remember to allow plenty of time to list your products on your new website (including some fantastic product photography) and test your website thoroughly before your launch. 

Market and Launch Your Business

Finally, it’s time to launch your business, so you’ll need to figure out the basics of internet marketing. Pay for advertising on Facebook Ads or the Google Shopping Channel to speed up your success.

If you are on a tight budget, you can market your business for free on social media, providing you use a little creativity. 

Are You Ready to Launch Your First Dropshipping Company?

Launching an eCommerce store is an exciting and potentially profitable prospect. And a dropshipping company is perhaps the most straightforward way to get started. Use our tips to begin planning your perfect business. 

For more tips to help you market your new startup, head to our business and finance section for our latest articles.