Starting an online business in the UK has never been easier, thanks to the dropshipping model. It allows you to sell products without holding inventory, making it a low-risk and beginner-friendly way to build an online store. In this guide, we’ll cover the best UK dropshipping suppliers for beginners and give you a step-by-step roadmap on how to start an online store in the UK.
Why Choose Dropshipping in the UK?
- Low upfront cost – no need to buy stock in advance.
- Wide product selection – access to thousands of items across multiple categories.
- Flexibility – work from anywhere while suppliers handle storage and delivery.
- Fast UK shipping – working with local suppliers ensures quicker delivery and happier customers.
Best Dropshipping Suppliers in the UK
Here are some of the most reliable and beginner-friendly suppliers you can start with:
1. Avasam
- UK-based automated dropshipping platform.
- Access to 100,000+ products from verified British suppliers.
- Fast shipping (2–5 days).
- Ideal for beginners looking for automation and reliability.
2. SaleHoo
- A trusted directory with over 8,000 suppliers worldwide, including many in the UK.
- Beginner-friendly with product research tools.
- Great for finding high-demand products and building supplier relationships.
3. Printify
- Perfect for print-on-demand items like t-shirts, mugs, and bags.
- Integrates easily with Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce.
- No upfront costs—you only pay when you sell.
4. Spocket
- Connects you with UK and EU suppliers.
- Offers branded invoicing and real-time stock updates.
- Popular for Shopify and WooCommerce users.
5. Costway UK
- Huge product range—home, garden, toys, furniture.
- UK warehouses for fast and affordable shipping.
- No sign-up fees, beginner-friendly platform.
6. CJ Dropshipping (UK Warehouse)
- Offers a wide range of products and custom packaging.
- One-click integration with Shopify, WooCommerce, and eBay.
- UK warehouses for quicker delivery times.
7. SourceLow
- Free UK dropshipping supplier directory.
- Easy way for beginners to explore multiple categories.
- Great for testing different products.
How to Start an Online Store in the UK (Step by Step)
1. Choose Your Niche
Select a product category that fits your interests and market demand. Popular niches include fitness, fashion, home décor, pet supplies, and tech accessories.
2. Find Reliable Suppliers
Work with UK-based suppliers for faster shipping and better customer satisfaction. Test products by ordering samples before listing them.
3. Register Your Business
- Register as a sole trader or limited company.
- Understand UK tax rules—VAT may apply depending on turnover.
- Make sure your store complies with UK consumer rights laws (14-day returns, privacy policy, etc.).
4. Build Your Online Store
- Shopify – best for beginners, easy setup, and apps for dropshipping.
- WooCommerce – flexible option if you already use WordPress.
- Wix – drag-and-drop store builder for small businesses.
5. Add Products & Set Prices
- Import products from your chosen supplier.
- Add professional product descriptions and images.
- Set competitive pricing while ensuring profit margins.
6. Market Your Store
- Use SEO to rank in Google searches.
- Run Facebook Ads, TikTok Ads, or Google Ads for traffic.
- Leverage Instagram and TikTok influencers to promote your products.
- Build an email list for repeat customers.
7. Fulfill Orders & Provide Support
When customers place an order, your supplier ships it directly to them. Focus on providing great customer service—quick replies, clear policies, and easy returns.
8. Scale Your Business
Once you start making sales:
- Add more products.
- Work with multiple suppliers for reliability.
- Automate tasks using apps like AutoDS or DSers.
Final Thoughts!!
Dropshipping is one of the easiest ways to start an online business in the UK. By choosing the right suppliers and building a professional online store, beginners can get started quickly with minimal risk. Focus on testing products, marketing effectively, and delivering great customer service, and your store can grow into a long-term business.