Let's analyze the different steps to take for those who want to open an online store from scratch.
Some considerations to make before opening an ecommerce.
In general, before opening an online store it would be preferable to study and analyze the market and define a business project. It is good to identify a market niche in which to act. In fact, competing in a sector characterized by a high number of competitors could be difficult and expensive, both in terms of costs and time and energy.
We could start by observing companies that already operate in the specific sector to try to find a way to differentiate themselves. Furthermore, studying the behavior and moves of competitors is essential to understand which strategies can be successful and which not. Proposing products or services in a different way could convert users into potential customers, until they become buyers with the right steps.
It is then necessary to evaluate whether ecommerce will go alongside a physical store or will represent the entrepreneur's only sales channel. Those who already own a physical store certainly have an advantage, as they already have experience in managing orders and the warehouse.
Good organization is essential. In fact, it must be taken into consideration that internet sales are much faster, and that buyers are often located in places very far from the physical location. For this reason, it is necessary to have a good logistics structure, a warehouse where you can store your goods and learn how to manage orders and shipments.
Bureaucratic formalities to open an ecommerce
To open a functioning online sales site, it is necessary to follow a legislative procedure like that required to open a physical store.
- First, sellers must register for VAT. Without it, in fact, it is not possible to proceed with the activation of a professional ecommerce.
- It is then necessary for the entrepreneur to register with the Company Register.
- Subsequently, it is required to give the certified report of the start of the activity.
- Lastly, tax and social security positions must be opened, depending on the sales channels and the presence or absence of personnel.
As far as the financial aspect is concerned, the opening of a current account in the name of the company is required. The revenues from the sales will be credited to it and costs and commissions will be debited.
Depending on the type of products you want to sell, other legal steps may be required to be in order. For example, if there will be food goods on the ecommerce, HACCP and SAB qualifications must be obtained.
It is advisable to consult an accountant to carry out this procedure. In this way, thanks to the help of a professional, you will not risk making mistakes and possible future problems will be avoided.