Dropshipping is a business model where the seller doesn't keep the products in stock.

Instead,
when a customer makes a purchase, the seller purchases the product directly from a third-party
supplier, who then ships it directly to the customer. This means the seller doesn't have to handle
inventory or shipping logistics themselves, making it a popular option for entrepreneurs looking
to start an online retail business with minimal upfront costs.

Here's a step-by-step overview of how dropshipping is done:

1. Choose a niche: Select a specific market or product category that you want to focus on. It's
essential to research the demand and competition in the chosen niche.

2. Find reliable suppliers: Look for suppliers or wholesalers who offer dropshipping services.
Many online marketplaces and directories, such as AliExpress, Oberlo, SaleHoo, and Doba,
connect dropshippers with suppliers from around the world.

3. Set up an online store: Create an e-commerce website or use a platform like Shopify,
WooCommerce, or BigCommerce to set up your online store. Customize it to showcase the
products from your chosen niche.

4. Import products to your store: Once you have identified the products you want to sell, import
them to your online store using the dropshipping platform's tools. This usually involves importing
product images, descriptions, and prices.

5. Determine product pricing: Calculate your retail prices, considering the product cost from the
supplier, shipping fees, and your desired profit margin.

6. Market your store: Drive traffic to your online store through various marketing channels, such
as social media marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), paid advertising, content marketing,
and email marketing.

7. Receive orders: When customers place orders on your website, you'll receive payment for the
products at your retail price.

8. Place orders with suppliers: Once you receive an order, go to the supplier's website or
platform, and purchase the product at the wholesale price, entering your customer's shipping
address during checkout.

9. Supplier ships directly to the customer: The supplier will handle the packaging and shipping of
the product directly to your customer. You don't need to handle inventory or shipping logistics
yourself.