How Old Do You Have To Be To Dropship? (16, 17, 18 Age Guide)

Curious if you’re too young to start dropshipping?

In this guide, I break down the age limits, legal rules, and smart ways teens (as young as 13) can launch a store—legally and creatively.

Whether you’re 16, 17, or just turning 18, I’ll walk you through how to start dropshipping in 2025, even if the platforms say you’re “too young.” Let’s dive in.

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How Old Do You Have To Be To Dropship?

When it comes to dropshipping, many young entrepreneurs often wonder, “how old do you have to be to start dropshipping?”

However, my straightforward response is that there are no age restrictions for starting a dropshipping business. Hence, teens have the freedom to initiate and possess dropshipping ventures, although there are additional factors to consider.

Unfortunately, many e-commerce platforms, payment processors, and advertising campaigns have strict rules that require individuals to be at least 18 years old. Thus, this can prevent teenagers from opening accounts on these platforms and accessing the necessary resources to start their dropshipping business.

*For example, strictly requires users to be older than 18 in order to make an account. Hence, these are their Account Terms.*👇

Also, the legal considerations for young dropshippers go beyond just age restrictions. In some cases, there may be additional requirements such as obtaining business licenses or permits, especially if you plan to operate as a legal entity.

💡 Tip: Read about Seller’s Permit vs. Business License: What Do You Need to Start Selling Online?

However, despite these challenges, dropshipping can still be a viable business model for teenagers. So, let’s see if there’s a right answer to the question “How old do you have to be to dropship?”.

💡Discover the Best Ecommerce Business Ideas For Teens in 2025.

What Is The Minimum Age Requirement For Accepting Payments In A Dropshipping Store?

When it comes to accepting payments in a dropship store, age restrictions and requirements must be taken into consideration. Hence, different platforms have different requirements.

For example, PayPal age limit is over 18 years old, for accepting payments.

However, an alternative option like Stripe requires users to be 13 years old and above to create an account. But, remember that if you are under the age of 18, Stripe requires a legal guardian to sign off on your Stripe account before they are able to transfer funds to your bank account.

So, as a minor, you will probably need an adult to assist with payments. So, certain information from the adult may be needed, like their legal name, address, and social security number.

Also, the adult may need to set up and operate the payment account on behalf of the minor, ensuring compliance with the platform’s terms and conditions.

👉 Check out the 7 Best Payment Gateways For Shopify In 2025.

What Is The Best Age To Start Dropshipping?

As a dropship enthusiast, I believe there is no specific age at which one must start dropshipping. In fact, in my opinion, always is a right the right time! 

🧑‍🎓 Ages 13–17: Great for Learning and Experimenting

If you’re a teen, this is a perfect age to learn the basics of eCommerce, marketing, and online business. While most platforms like Shopify or PayPal require you to be 18+, you can:

• Use a parent or guardian’s account (with permission)
• Focus on learning product research, running mock stores, or managing social media

💡 Tip: Start building skills in Canva, TikTok, ChatGPT, and Google Trends.

👨‍💻 Ages 18–24: Ideal for Starting Seriously

This is the sweet spot for launching a real dropshipping business. You’re legally able to:

• Sign up for payment processors and ecommerce platforms
• Start testing products with real ads
• Take advantage of student life flexibility and low financial commitments

Many successful dropshippers began in this age range—your time and energy are your biggest assets.

👨‍👩‍🦳 25 and Beyond: Prime for Scaling or Pivoting

Whether you’re looking to escape your 9–5, add a side hustle, or build a long-term brand, it’s never too late. At this stage, you often have:

• More startup capital
• Better discipline and patience
• A clearer understanding of customer needs

Dropshipping can evolve into private label or branded eCommerce if you’re in it for the long run.

For example, I admire Drayson, who gained practical experience with dropshipping while he was in his second year of college.👇

Tan Choudhury started at age 16 and generated $100,000+ in monthly revenue while still in high school. He used viral products and free traffic methods to scale fast before moving into paid ads and automation.

Also, Choudhury has previously reported generating over $6 million in revenue from his own stores and assisting clients in reaching $7 million in sales.

As you can see, there’s no real answer to the “How old do you have to be to dropship”. 

Legal Concerns & Requirements For Young Dropshippers

If you’re a teen ready to jump into the world of dropshipping, that’s exciting—but don’t skip the boring legal stuff.

While it’s not as fun as picking products or running ads, understanding legal requirements is what separates a hobby from a real business.

Here’s everything you need to know to get started the right way, even if you’re under 18.

🔸 Age Restrictions

The Problem: Most major platforms—like Shopify, Etsy, Stripe, and PayPal—require you to be at least 18 years old to create an account, accept payments, or enter into contracts.

How To Handle It:
If you’re under 18, the solution is simple but crucial:
Partner with a parent or guardian. They can legally create the account in their name and handle backend responsibilities (like payment processing and business registration), while you run the creative and marketing side.

For instance, let’s say that you’re 16 and want to sell aesthetic anime-themed phone cases. Your parent signs up for a Shopify account and Stripe under their name, while you focus on TikTok marketing, product selection, and branding.

Alternative: Some younger sellers use Printful + Etsy with their parent as the listed store owner. You do the design, they handle the formal bits.

🔸 Business Registration

The Rule: Depending on your country or state, you might need to register your business even if it’s online. This could be as simple as registering a sole proprietorship or as complex as forming an LLC.

If You’re Under 18: You likely can’t register a business on your own. Again, you’ll need a parent or trusted adult to do this on your behalf.

For example, in the U.S., forming an LLC requires someone 18+ to file. You and your parent can file together, with them as the legal representative and you listed as a manager or member (depending on the state).

That’s why I advise you to research your local laws or visit a site like Doola or LegalZoom to get guidance on forming a youth-supported business.

🔸 Tax Obligations

The Truth: Once you make money, you’re responsible for paying taxes—yes, even as a teen. This includes income tax and potentially sales tax, depending on where you sell.

What You Need To Do:

• Keep detailed records of sales and expenses (use Google Sheets or apps like QuickBooks).
• File taxes annually (with help from your parent or a tax advisor).
• Register for a sales tax permit if required in your state or country.

If you made $2,000 selling customized water bottles last year, you may need to report that as self-employed income. Even if it’s under the taxable threshold, it’s best to stay compliant early.

Tip: Hire a local accountant or ask your parents’ tax preparer to walk you through what needs to be done. You’ll learn tons just by sitting in on the conversation.

🔸 Consumer Protection Laws

Why It Matters: You’re running a real business, which means your customers have rights, and they can file complaints if they feel misled.

What To Follow:

• Always provide honest product descriptions.
• Be clear about shipping times, especially if you’re dropshipping from overseas.
• Have a written refund policy.
• Respond to messages and complaints promptly and professionally.

Don’t say your hoodie ships in 3 days if it’s coming from China and will take 10–15. If customers feel misled, they can request refunds through platforms, or worse, report your store.

🔸 Intellectual Property Rights

The Mistake Many Teens Make: Using images or logos they found online without permission.

Don’t do this. Copyright infringement can get your store banned—or land you in legal trouble.

Here’s what I do:

• Use royalty-free product photos from suppliers.
• Create your own designs or use platforms like Canva, Kittl, or MidJourney AI.
• Avoid using brand names or characters (like “Naruto” or “Nike”) unless licensed.

Let’s say you want to sell Marvel-themed hoodies. If you didn’t pay for a license, don’t do it. Instead, focus on original superhero-inspired designs or parodies that don’t violate trademarks.

🔸 Privacy & Data Protection

Yes, This Applies to You Too: If you’re collecting customer info—names, emails, addresses, even just through Shopify or Etsy—you must follow data privacy laws.

What You Need To Do:

• Add a privacy policy on your store.
• Only collect necessary info.
• Don’t share or sell customer data.
• Use secure platforms (like Shopify or Wix) that already follow GDPR/CCPA standards.

Let’s say that a customer buys from your store and enters their email. You need to protect that info and not misuse it. Don’t add them to email lists without permission.

How To Start a Dropshipping Business as a 15, 16, 17, 18 Year’s Old In 2025?

So, instead of asking “How old do you have to be to dropship?”, let’s get to the part on how to dropship.

In this article, I will guide you through the most crucial steps to succeed in this dropshipping business venture. Let’s start!👇

Step 1- Find A Product To Sell

When it comes to starting a dropshipping business, one of the first tasks is finding a product to sell. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for the success of your venture. 

There are multiple methods to find dropshipping products. For example, you can directly access the Google search engine and type in specific keywords related to the products you are interested in dropshipping. 

Let’s assume you want to dropship baby products, so you would simply type “baby products” into the search bar. In response, Google will likely provide you with a list of results.👇

However, I do not recommend this approach because it does not distinguish between legitimate dropshipping opportunities and potential scams.

Here’s the method I personally use to find dropship winning products:

I use product research tools, such as one of my preferred options, Adserea. This tool allows me to monitor advertisements on social media platforms and observe how well these products are selling.

I can uncover profitable products, create compelling ad copy, optimize advertising conversion rates, generate sales-driven product descriptions, seamlessly import products, and access valuable resources for any niche.

Furthermore, once I find my winning product, I gain access to comprehensive information about its sales performance, pricing, competitors, supplier list, and more.

👉 Check out The Ultimate Guide: How To Find Products To Dropship In 2025.

Step 2- Find Reliable Dropshipping Suppliers

The next step holds great significance, and I personally attach great importance to it as I aim to avoid falling victim to dropshipping scams and incurring financial losses.

Therefore, I recommend seeking out dropship suppliers who specialize in or offer the kind of products you intend to sell. Additionally, once you locate them, establish collaborative partnerships or agreements to ensure a consistent supply of inventory.

For instance, I consistently come across valuable information within the supplier directory provided by Dropshipping.com. They offer a comprehensive directory containing over 2000 reliable suppliers for you to select from.

These directories enable me to refine my search based on my specific dropshipping niche, supplier location, shipping costs, and other relevant criteria.

Furthermore, I gain access to valuable information regarding each supplier’s pricing, order processing time, minimum order quantity (MOQ), warehouse location, product range, and additional pertinent details.

Step 3- Setting Up Your Dropshipping Store

Setting up a dropship store has become incredibly convenient these days, with plenty of cost-effective alternatives available.

If you possess coding knowledge, you can construct your own online store from scratch. Simply use a content management system (CMS) such as WordPress, granting you the flexibility to personalize it to your liking.

However, I recommend saving your valuable time by utilizing popular website builders to establish your store.

For example, I personally use the Shopify eCommerce platform, which offers a wide range of pre-designed store themes that can be easily customized. The best part is, you don’t need any coding skills. Additionally, it provides an impressive array of customizable options.

Furthermore, their simplifies the process of creating high-converting and visually appealing landing pages.

Moreover, Shopify seamlessly integrates with numerous dropshipping apps, guaranteeing complete automation of your dropshipping business.

Tip: Learn How To Set Up Your First Store On Shopify [No.1 Beginners Guide]

Step 4- Registering a Business and Domain Name

When starting a dropshipping business, one of the important steps is registering a business and purchasing a domain name. This process is necessary to establish your online presence and build a professional image for your business.

➡ Registering a business

To register a business, you will need to determine the legal structure of your venture, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), and comply with any local or state regulations. So, if you are under 18, you will need someone older to complete this step on your behalf as there may be age restrictions for registering a business.

👉 Read about Do I Need an LLC For Dropshipping? The Sellers Guide.

➡ Buy a domain name

However, there are no age restrictions for purchasing a domain name. This means that even if you are under 18, you can still acquire a domain name for your dropship business

So, when having an online store, there are two essential components: a domain name (which serves as the address of your website) and hosting (which enables your website to be accessed online).

There are numerous providers available where you can purchase both your domain name and hosting, such as Bluehost or GoDaddy

For instance, I have personally had a positive experience with Bluehost. Not only does it provide domain name services, but it also offers an affordable option starting at $9.95 per month.

Additionally, Bluehost provides the added benefit of a complimentary SSL certificate, ensuring the highest level of security for users’ websites.

Notably, it excels in optimizing WordPress hosting, making the installation and management of WordPress websites seamless for its users. Therefore, I highly recommend Bluehost to you.

Step 5- Promote Your Store and Get Your First Customers Fast

Let’s be real—you can have the best product in the world, but if no one knows about it, you won’t make a single sale. Marketing isn’t optional—it’s your fuel.

In 2025, young dropshippers will have more opportunities than ever to market smartly without spending a fortune. So here’s how you can start growing fast:

Start With Organic Reach (SEO + Content)

If you’re on a tight budget, search engine optimization (SEO) is your best friend. Start with keyword-rich product descriptions, write blog posts that answer customer questions (for instance, “Best portable blenders for travel”), and optimize your site structure. You can use free tools like Ubersuggest or Google Trends to find what people are searching for.

💡 Tip: A young store owner selling skincare tools created TikTok-style videos showing “before and after” effects and ranked them on YouTube and Google by simply targeting keywords like “best jade roller for face.”

Leverage Social Media Platforms Where Your Audience Lives

In 2025, TikTok and Instagram Reels are goldmines. Post short, engaging videos that show how your product solves a problem or adds value. Use trending audio and hashtags to reach a wider audience organically.

👉 Pro tip: Use platforms like CapCut or InVideo to quickly create aesthetic and viral-style content—even from your phone.

Test Paid Ads with Low Budgets

Paid ads can be a game-changer if done right. Start small with Facebook Ads and test different formats:

• Image and Video Ads for product highlights
• Story Ads for urgency-based offers
• Messenger Ads to start conversations and automate replies

💡 Tip: One 17-year-old dropshipper launched his first store selling LED bike lights. He ran $5/day Facebook Story ads and got 3 orders in his first week just by targeting cycling hobbyists.

Add Converting Tactics: Upsells, Promos, Referrals

Once customers visit your store, don’t let them leave empty-handed. Use marketing tactics like:

• Upselling (for example, “Add this item for 20% off!”)
• Cross-selling (for example, “Frequently bought together”)
• Promo codes and countdown timers
• Referral programs (tools like ReferralCandy make it super easy)

Automate Where You Can

To save time and scale, automate your marketing. Use tools like:

• Klaviyo or Omnisend for abandoned cart emails
• ReConvert for thank-you page upsells
• One Click Upsell by Zipify for easy post-purchase offers

💡 Tip: Explore the 16 Best Marketing Apps available on Shopify to supercharge your store in just a few clicks.

Embrace Video Marketing

Video content builds trust and drives conversions. Whether it’s a quick unboxing clip or a TikTok challenge using your product, videos make your store feel real.

Furthermore, I suggest integrating video marketing into your dropshipping marketing strategy, as it allows you to showcase your products in a visually captivating manner and demonstrate their usage, features, benefits, and more to potential customers.

👉 Check out the 10 Best Dropshipping Video Ads Service For Aspiring Dropshippers.

Can I Dropship From AliExpress as a Young Entrepreneur?

So, how old do you have to be to dropship from AliExpress?

I hate to break it to you, but AliExpress requires users to be at least 18 years old to use their platform, which means you need to ensure you meet this age requirement before starting a dropshipping venture.

What’s more, age verification is an important step in the dropshipping process, especially when it comes to selling age-restricted products. Hence, some products, such as alcohol, tobacco, or firearms, have specific age restrictions and may require additional verification or licensing.

So, I advise you to research these legal requirements to avoid potential consequences, such as fines or legal repercussions, for selling age-restricted products without proper verification.

👉 Read about Is AliExpress Legit And Safe For Buying And Selling?

Can I Dropship From Amazon or Etsy as a Young Entrepreneur?

Yes, you can get started in dropshipping at a young age — but the platform you choose matters, and so do their age restrictions and business policies.

Amazon Dropshipping: Not Ideal for Young Entrepreneurs

While you might think about dropshipping from Amazon (buying a product there and shipping it to your customer), Amazon’s terms of service clearly prohibit this if you’re not the seller of record. This means:

• You can’t use Amazon packaging or invoices for orders you sell on your store.
• Amazon may suspend your account if they catch you violating these rules.
• Customers may complain if they receive Amazon-branded boxes, especially with cheaper pricing.

📌 Amazon Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to open an Amazon seller account. If you’re under 18, you’ll need to use a parent or guardian’s account with their consent, or legally register a business under their name.

Etsy: A Better Option (But Still With Rules)

Etsy is a stronger platform for creative young entrepreneurs, especially if you sell print-on-demand products, handmade goods, or vintage items through a partner like Printify or Printful.

💡 And yes, you can legally dropship on Etsy — as long as you’re transparent about your production partners. Etsy supports “production partners,” so you can sell custom mugs, t-shirts, posters, and more without touching the inventory yourself.

📌 Etsy Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to own and manage an Etsy shop.

If you’re between 13 and 17, you can still sell — but only under the supervision of a parent or legal guardian, who must be listed on the account.

Can I Start Print-on-Demand as a Young Entrepreneur?

Absolutely — and here’s why it’s one of the smartest business models for you.

If you’re a young entrepreneur eager to build a brand without spending thousands on inventory, print-on-demand (POD) is a perfect starting point.

With POD, you can sell custom-designed products like T-shirts, hoodies, mugs, stickers, phone cases, wall art, and more — without holding any stock or handling shipping.

Unlike traditional dropshipping, POD lets you focus on creativity and branding, while your print partner takes care of production and fulfillment.

Popular Print-on-Demand Platforms for Young Creators

Some of the best POD platforms include:

• Printful
• Printify
• Gelato
• SPOD
• Teespring (now rebranded as Spring)

All of these integrate easily with Shopify, Etsy, Wix, and even TikTok Shop, making setup smooth, even if you’re not super tech-savvy.

📌 Age Requirements for POD Platforms

Most POD platforms require users to be 18 years or older to create an account and legally accept payments. But that doesn’t mean you can’t start if you’re younger.

Here’s how to do it right:

• If you’re under 18, ask a parent or guardian to register the account on your behalf.
• You’ll still be in control of:
  • Creating designs
  • Running your social media
  • Choosing products
  • Engaging with your audience

Meanwhile, your parent/guardian handles the legal and payment side, making your business legitimate and safe.

👉 For example, both Printify and Printful require account holders to be 18+, but you can operate behind the scenes with support and permission from an adult.

How To Start Print-on-Demand as a Teen (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Partner With a Parent or Guardian

Since legal contracts, tax forms, and payments require someone of legal age, you’ll need to have an adult you trust register the business for you.

This means:

• The POD account (Printify, Printful, etc.) will be under their name.
• The store platform (Shopify, Etsy, etc.) will also be registered under their name.
• They’ll handle the payment setup (like PayPal, bank accounts, or Stripe).

But YOU can still be the one who:

• Creates the product designs
• Manages the social media and marketing
• Chooses which products to sell
• Talks to customers (if needed)
• Builds the brand vision

💡 Tip: Think of your parent or guardian as the business back-end, while you’re the CEO of creativity and marketing.

Step 2: Create Your Designs

Use beginner-friendly tools like:

• Canva (perfect for free and easy design)
• Kittl, Photopea, or Placeit (for mockups)
• AI design tools like DALL·E or Midjourney for concept art

Focus on trending and passionate niches such as:

• Funny quotes
• Pet lovers
• Anime fans
• Sports communities
• Aesthetic vibes and motivational messages

These niches perform extremely well on Etsy and TikTok Shop.

Step 3: Choose Your POD Platform

For teens, the easiest and most flexible setup is: Printify + Etsy

Here’s why it works:

• Etsy allows minors aged 13–17 to run a shop, as long as it’s supervised by a parent or guardian listed on the account.
• Printify is free to start and offers thousands of POD products with global suppliers.
• You don’t need a credit card upfront — Printify will only charge the adult’s card after you make a sale.

Step 4: Promote Your Products

Use social platforms where younger creators shine:

• TikTok: Create short, trendy videos featuring your designs
• Instagram Reels: Add aesthetic music and visuals
• Pinterest: Upload product mockups with search-optimized titles
• Reddit or Discord: Share in niche communities where your audience hangs out

👉 You don’t even need to show your face — just let your designs and personality speak for your brand.

Step 5: Manage Your Profits and Learn As You Go

Until you’re 18, you can have profits sent to your parent’s PayPal or bank account, but always:

• Keep records in Google Sheets or Notion
• Track your orders, product costs, profit margins, and marketing ideas
• Study what’s working and learn from the feedback

This builds real business skills that will give you a huge head start in the future.

Why Is Dropshipping Ideal For Teenagers?

Dropshipping is an ideal business model for teenagers due to several benefits and advantages it offers. 

➡ First thing first, you know that renting an office is actually not a small investment nowadays. But, with dropshipping all you need is a laptop or PC, and you can work from any place in the world. So, you don’t need to ask your parents for office-kind-of-costs.

➡ Moreover, the dropshipping business model eliminates the need for inventory. Consequently, there’s no requirement to rent a warehouse or transform your own space into a storage facility. Instead, you can rely on your suppliers to handle these logistics on your behalf.

➡ Additionally, dropshipping allows you the freedom to test various products without the need to purchase them upfront. Also, while advertising expenses are necessary, if a particular product fails to generate sales, you can easily switch to another option.

Consequently, the risk level associated with dropshipping is significantly lower compared to other business models.

How Did I Get My First Sale As a Dropship Youngster?

First things first, since I was sure I was going to use social media to start dropshipping, and I knew how important is to find the winning product in order to succeed. So, I used the Adserea product research tool.

Using this tool helped me search for products on TikTok based on several metrics. Hence, these metrics specify exactly what you are looking for, and find it much quicker! Take a look.👇

Furthermore, since I was 17 years old when I started, I had a huge help from my mom, who opened an LLC for my dropshipping business. Also, I always tend to stay up-to-date with all the legal requirements and tax obligations.

So, the first sale I made was because of the persuasive TikTok ads and high-quality videos I made showcasing my products. Hence, I was posting 5-6 TikToks a day. After 3 days, I made my first sale.

👉 Check out my PiPiADS Review 2025: Is This The No. 1 TikTok Ad Spy Tool?

However,  I also experimented with different ad placements, copy, and visuals to attract potential customers.

Additionally, I focused on adding value for my customers by providing detailed product descriptions and high-quality images that showcased the benefits and features of the products. This allowed customers to make more informed decisions and increased their confidence in purchasing from my store. 

💡 Tip: Read about The Power Of Product Advertisement: How To Increase Your Sales?

What’s more, as I already mentioned above, finding reliable dropshipping suppliers wasn’t easy at all. But, thanks to online supplier directories, like Dropshipping.com I managed to find the perfect ones for my socks dropshipping business. 

By combining these strategies and techniques, I was able to generate that first sale and kickstart my journey as a successful dropshipper.

Plus, now I am planning to design my own socks and use print-on-demand dropshipping services for this.

My Advice To First-Time Dropshippers?

As someone who has had experience in the world of dropshipping, I have some advice for first-time ecommerce entrepreneurs.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that success in this field doesn’t come overnight. It requires dedication, hard work, and a lot of learning along the way.

Also, don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. But keep pushing forward and stay persistent.

So, one key factor is the competitiveness of your chosen niche. Conduct thorough research to identify a dropshipping niche with potential customers and limited competition.

👉 Check out the Best 8 Profitable Niches With Low Competition For Dropshippers.

Additionally, consider the demand for your products. For instance, you can always check on any product interest for free. Hence, Google Trends has your hands full when it comes to product demand. Thus, simply type in your keyword, and you get it. 👇

💡 Tip: Check out my Step-By-Step Guide + Top 24 Baby Products For Dropshipping

Also, consider the effectiveness of your marketing strategy.  Marketing is everything here! A solid advertising budget and investment in high-quality products can greatly impact your profitability.

However, for example, if you’re considering dropshipping on Amazon, it’s important to understand the criteria set by the platform. Amazon has specific requirements for dropshippers, including product availability, shipping times, and customer service. 

To sum it up, my advice to first-time dropshippers and entrepreneurs is to be prepared for the challenges that come with a dropshipping venture.

Put in the necessary work and stay committed to your goals. Remember that profitability depends on factors like niche competitiveness, customer demand, advertising budget, and product quality. 

How Does Dropshipping Work?

This business model involves a process called order fulfillment through a third-party supplier.

Essentially, as a vendor, I don’t handle inventory or shipment directly. Instead, my focus is on marketing and managing my online presence.

So, when a customer places an order, I forward it to my third-party dropshipping supplier, who then takes care of packaging and shipping the product to the customer.

Thus, this allows me to eliminate the need for warehouse space or inventory management, which can be a huge advantage. With this streamlined process in place, I can focus on growing my business and providing exceptional customer service.

👉 Read about Everything You Need To Know: Dropshipping Business Model Explained

Pros & Cons of Young Dropshipping Entrepreneurs

Next, I will list the Pros & Cons when dropshipping as a young entrepreneur. Let’s see!

✅ PROS

➡ Adaptability

Young entrepreneurs tend to be more adaptable and open to new technologies and trends, which is crucial in the fast-paced world of dropshipping. Hence, you can quickly learn and implement new strategies and tools to stay ahead of the competition.

Plus, you have the freedom to experiment with different business ideas and strategies. So, you can take risks and try out new approaches without the fear of failure holding them back

➡ Low Startup Costs 

And, this might be the perfect venture for you! Of course, you are still young and financially dependent. However, with the dropshipping business model, there is no need to invest in inventory upfront. Instead, you only purchase products from suppliers when customers place orders.

Additionally, concerns regarding warehousing and storage expenses are eliminated. Since you do not maintain inventory, there is no need to rent or purchase physical space to store products. This significantly reduces overhead costs, allowing for the allocation of funds to other aspects of the business.

Dropshipping also saves costs by removing the need for shipping and fulfillment management. Furthermore, it eliminates expenses associated with product development and manufacturing.

👉 Read about How Much Does It Cost To Start Dropshipping In 2025?

➡ Tech-savviness

Next, you are often more tech-savvy and comfortable with online platforms and tools. Hence, this can give you an advantage in managing your dropshipping business, including setting up and optimizing websites, managing social media marketing, and utilizing various digital tools for automation and analytics.

➡ Creativity

What I admire about you as a teen the most is that you tend to bring fresh and innovative ideas to the table.

Hence, you are more likely to think outside the box and come up with unique marketing strategies or product offerings that can help you stand out in the competitive dropshipping market.

❌ CONS

➡ Age Restrictions

One of the biggest challenges to dropship as a teen is the requirement for someone over 18 to enter into certain contracts and agreements. Entering into a legally binding contract typically requires individuals to be at least 18 years old.

This can pose a problem for young entrepreneurs who want to establish relationships with suppliers or payment processors that have age restrictions.

➡ Lack of experience

Unfortunately, you may lack the necessary business experience and industry knowledge to effectively run a dropshipping business.

So, you may struggle with aspects such as inventory management, customer service, or financial management, which can impact the overall success of your venture.

👉 Discover How Dropshipping Stores Lose Money? (A Guide To Win In 2025)

➡ Limited financial resources

Another disadvantage is that you may have limited access to capital, making it challenging to invest in inventory, marketing, or other essential aspects of your dropshipping business.

Also, this can hinder your ability to scale your business and compete with more established players in the market.

➡ Unrealistic expectations

I know you are young and wild and free, and that’s all good! However, most of the teens failed because of their unrealistic expectations about the potential success and profitability of their dropshipping business.

Likewise, they underestimated the time and effort required to build a successful venture, which led to frustration or giving up too soon. So, be careful about this.

➡ Lack of industry connections

Young entrepreneurs may lack industry connections and networks that can be valuable in the dropshipping industry. And, building relationships with suppliers, influencers, or other entrepreneurs can be beneficial for sourcing products, marketing collaborations, or gaining industry insights.

Real-Life Success Stories Of Dropshippers Under Age of 18

Tan Choudhury

Started at: Age 16
Strategy: Organic growth via Instagram influencers and later paid TikTok/FB ads
Notable Success: Generated over $6 million in revenue, helped clients reach $7M+

Tan began selling clothes online before transitioning to dropshipping. He grew fast by leveraging Instagram theme pages and low-cost shoutouts before moving to paid ads.

Tan later developed the E-Com Mastery Program, which provides blueprint-level training to aspiring dropshippers.

Though some online debates question the effectiveness of courses in general, Tan’s students have shared multiple success stories. In 2025, he’s still active on YouTube and Instagram, discussing the future of dropshipping and adapting to new algorithms and product trends.

Alex Philip

Started at: Age 10
Revenue: $5M+ in eCommerce by age 17
Strategy: Influencer marketing, private label brands, Shopify dropshipping, Facebook, and TikTok ads

Alex began experimenting with eCommerce at just 10 years old, building a simple HTML-coded store called Joyfolks.com that sold motivational books.

He unknowingly started dropshipping by listing eBay products on his site and later moved to Amazon, reselling Pokémon toys during the Pokémon Go craze.

At 13, he had his first breakthrough using Instagram influencers to sell a viral Liverpool fan canvas, generating thousands in sales. He followed that up by selling music boxes using Instagram meme pages, eventually doing $45K/month in revenue.

By 15, Alex mastered Facebook Ads and hit his first $100K month, netting around $25K in profit.

But the journey wasn’t easy—his ad accounts were banned, his influencer pages deleted, and Stripe froze $200K in funds. Despite setbacks, he reinvested, built private label brands, and kept pushing.

In 2020, he made a life-changing decision: when schools shut down during the pandemic, he never went back.

He focused full-time on eCommerce, hitting record weeks like $60K in 7 days, scaling stores to $50K+ per day during events like Black Friday.

Alex emphasizes the importance of:

• Sacrifice (skipping holidays, giving up football, working 10+ hours/day)
• High-value skills (copywriting, ads, content)
• Persistence through inconsistency and failures
• Blue ocean thinking—standing out rather than copying

🔮 Today

Now 17, Alex runs several private label brands and dropshipping stores, manages a small team from his London office, and plans to build a portfolio of billion-dollar brands.

He dreams of one day buying Chelsea FC and continues to share his journey online.

Ron

TikTok Video

Started at: Age 16
Strategy: Employed an Amazon-to-Ebay dropshipping model, focusing on product research and competitive pricing.
Notable Success: Increased sales from 20 per week to 20 per day.

Ron, a high school student, ventured into dropshipping by listing products from Amazon on eBay. Through diligent product research and strategic pricing, he managed to scale his sales significantly, demonstrating the potential of this business model even amidst skepticism.

Manjeet Singh Sangha (DesiRichKid)

Started at: Age 17
Strategy: Focused on building multiple online stores, emphasizing customer service and product quality.
Notable Success: Owns six online stores with over 2,500 international customers.

Manjeet, known online as DesiRichKid, embarked on his dropshipping journey with a vision of financial independence.

By prioritizing customer satisfaction and continuously refining his product offerings, he established a robust online presence and now mentors aspiring entrepreneurs through his consultancy, ‘Drop Shipping University’.

Kostify

Started at: Age 16
Strategy: Utilized organic marketing strategies, including TikTok and Instagram, to drive traffic to his Shopify store.
Notable Success: Scaled to $50,000 per month in revenue.

Kostify harnessed the power of social media platforms to promote his dropshipping products without relying heavily on paid advertisements. His creative content and engagement with followers translated into substantial monthly revenues.

Michael & Jake Lebhar

Started at: Ages 16 and 14
Strategy: Began by selling gym equipment online, later diversifying into pet toys and kitchen accessories.
Notable Success: Built an £8 million business, with products sold on Amazon and Walmart.

The Lebhar brothers initiated their e-commerce venture during their teenage years, identifying market demands and expanding their product range accordingly.

Their commitment to growth and adaptability led to significant success across major retail platforms.

Harry Edwards

Started at: Age 16
Strategy: Started with dropshipping, then transitioned to creating video ads for TikTok and Facebook on Fiverr.
Notable Success: Built a company generating over £1 million annually

Harry Edwards, after experimenting with dropshipping, discovered a niche in producing engaging video advertisements for social media platforms.

His services gained popularity, leading to a thriving business that underscores the importance of adaptability in entrepreneurship.

👨‍💼 Benjamin Kapelushnik (Benjamin Kickz)

Started at: Age 16
Strategy: Specialized in reselling rare sneakers, leveraging connections with celebrities to boost credibility.
Notable Success: Amassed nearly $1 million in sales, with clients including DJ Khaled and Odell Beckham

Benjamin, known as Benjamin Kickz, turned his passion for sneakers into a lucrative business by sourcing limited-edition footwear and selling them to high-profile clients.

His brand became synonymous with exclusive sneaker deals among celebrities.

Best Tips For Young Dropshippers: Start Smart, Grow Big

Starting a successful dropshipping business may seem overwhelming, especially for young entrepreneurs, but with the right approach, you can build a profitable dropshipping business that grows over time.

So, here are some essential tips to help you set up your dropshipping store and thrive in the competitive online business space:

✅ Find a Niche You’re Passionate About

One of the keys to a successful dropshipping venture is finding a niche that excites you. As a young entrepreneur, focusing on a niche you understand will give you a better insight into customer demand and help you create detailed product descriptions that resonate with your audience.

For example, if you’re into tech gadgets, build a dropshipping business model around that, ensuring you cater to a specific group of tech enthusiasts.

✅ Focus on Quality Suppliers

To maintain exceptional customer service, it’s crucial to work with reliable suppliers. Low-quality products can hurt your reputation and impact financial transactions, so aim for inventory management with trusted suppliers who offer fast shipping and excellent quality.

This will help you build a successful venture that customers trust.

✅ Start Small, Then Scale

When you first start a dropshipping business, it’s easy to feel like you need a large inventory, but it’s smarter to start with a few products. This approach allows you to understand the business model and market prices, and once you gain traction, you can scale.

So, be sure to set up a bank account early for easy payment processing and keeping track of your finances.

✅ Master Effective Marketing Strategies Early

A great product won’t sell itself—you need effective marketing strategies to bring traffic to your online store. Take time to explore social media platforms and develop a marketing strategy that fits your niche.

For instance, Instagram is perfect for lifestyle products, while Facebook ads can target a broad audience.

Don’t forget to consider search engine optimization to ensure your dropshipping business ranks well in search results.

✅ Understand the Legal Requirements

Starting a legal dropshipping business involves more than just selling products. You’ll need to meet legal requirements like getting business licenses and possibly setting up a limited liability company to protect your personal assets.

Young dropshippers under the legal age requirement might need to seek parental consent or meet certain age restrictions depending on the platform they use.

Also, make sure to research all the legal aspects to ensure compliance and avoid potential issues.

💡 Tip: Learn about LLC vs LLP: What’s The Big Difference.

✅ Keep Your Store Simple

When designing your online store, aim for simplicity. A clutter-free website with easy navigation will help you generate sales more efficiently.

Focus on user experience and make sure your product pages are optimized for quick conversions. Keeping it simple is a proven way to build a successful dropshipper reputation.

EXTRA Side Jobs To Start As A Teenager[14, 15, 16, 17 Year Olds]

1. Sell Handmade Creations

Are you a young entrepreneur with a knack for crafting? You can start a successful venture by selling handmade products like jewelry, candles, or art.

Many teens have found success by showcasing their creations on online stores like Etsy.

First, create some unique items, take high-quality photos, and list them online. Focus on exceptional customer service by offering clear detailed product descriptions and fast shipping.

Handmade jewelry, for example, can sell for $10 to $50, with about a 50% profit margin after material costs. This is a great way to sell products online and learn valuable business lessons.

2. Launch a Print-On-Demand Store

Print-on-demand is perfect for young dropshippers who want to design custom products without managing inventory. Sites like Printful, Apliiq, Redbubble, and Teespring handle printing and shipping, making it easy to get started.

To start, design eye-catching graphics using tools like Canva, then upload them to a print-on-demand platform.

For instance, I am dropshipping custom t-shirts. Thus, I use the Printful mockup generator to personalize my designs. With it, I can add text, graphics, quotes, colors, and more to make each shirt unique.

This business model requires minimal upfront investment and can teach you valuable business lessons about market research, effective marketing strategies, and inventory management.

Plus, you’ll gain experience running an online store.

3. Become a Translator

If you’re bilingual, you can turn your language skills into a profitable venture by offering translation services.

So, you can sign up on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork to find translation gigs. You could translate blog posts, websites, or even video subtitles.

Rates usually range from $0.03 to $0.10 per word, so translating a 1,000-word document could earn you between $30 and $100.

This job provides valuable business lessons in managing finances, meeting deadlines, and providing exceptional customer service.

4. Start a YouTube Channel

For creative teens, starting a YouTube channel can be both fun and profitable.

Whether you’re into gaming, makeup tutorials, or DIY projects, there’s always an audience for quality content.

Record videos using your smartphone, edit them with free tools like Shotcut and upload them to YouTube.

Your earnings can come from ad revenue, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.

Plus, you’ll learn valuable business lessons in video production, effective marketing strategies, and customer demand.

5. Create a Blog

Blogging is a fantastic way to share your thoughts and ideas with the world.

Start by choosing a niche like fashion, travel, or tech, then create a blog on platforms like WordPress.

Write regularly and promote your posts on social media platforms to grow your audience.

Moreover, bloggers earn through ads, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing.

This business model can teach you valuable guidance in search engine optimization, content creation, and managing an online store.

For example, for me, Huel’s Blog Design is very inspirational. They have a list of valuable articles under their “Guides and Articles” page.

6. Design Infographics

For creative teens, designing infographics is a fun and profitable job.

So, you can use tools like Canva to create eye-catching visuals for businesses and bloggers. Infographics help businesses simplify complex data, so they are in high demand.

Offer your design services on platforms like Fiverr, where rates can range from $10 to $100 per infographic.

You’ll also learn valuable business lessons in design and market research.

7. Provide Graphic Design Services

Got a talent for graphic design? Start offering services like logo design, social media graphics, or marketing materials on platforms like Upwork.

This is a great way to turn your artistic skills into income.

Graphic design is in high demand, with beginners earning $20 to $50 per hour.

As you gain experience, you’ll learn important business operations, including managing payment processors and creating legally binding contracts with clients.

8. Video Editing

With the growing popularity of video content, editing videos is a skill in high demand.

I suggest you use free software like DaVinci Resolve to offer video editing services to YouTubers or small businesses.

Editing can bring in $15 to $50 per hour, depending on your skill level. It’s a great way to learn essential skills in creativity, time management, and providing exceptional customer service.

10. Become an Influencer

If you enjoy social media, becoming an influencer on Instagram or TikTok can be a fun way to make money.

Choose a niche like fashion or fitness, post regularly, and engage with your followers.

Influencers earn through sponsored posts and affiliate marketing, with earnings ranging from $10 per post to thousands.

You’ll learn valuable business lessons in content creation, branding, and managing financial transactions.

For example, you probably know Charlie D’Amelio. She’s a famous teenage influencer who became popular on TikTok by posting dance and lip-sync videos.

11. Sell Stock Photos

If photography is your passion, you can sell stock images on platforms like Shutterstock. Take high-quality photos and upload them for businesses and individuals to purchase.

Each sale can earn between $0.25 to $2.00, making this a great way to earn passive income while learning valuable business lessons in photography, copyright, and payment processing.

How Old Do You Have To Be To Dropship – FAQs

Summing Up

If you’re asking, “How old do you have to be to dropship?”, here’s my honest answer: age doesn’t matter as much as your mindset does. Yes, platforms and payment processors often require you to be 18 or older, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start learning, building, and growing your own business earlier.

What matters is that you understand the rules, stay compliant, and most importantly — take action. Partner with a trusted adult, take full ownership of the creative side, and start treating your hustle like a real business from day one.

Whether you’re 15 or 25, you can:

• Learn product research and ad creation
• Build a brand from your bedroom
• Create designs people love
• Build your confidence through every sale

💡 Here’s my final advice:

• Use your age as your strength, not a setback. Young creators are shaping the future of eCommerce.
• Start small, but start smart. You don’t need to do everything at once — just take that first step.
• Ask for help when needed. A parent, mentor, or even this blog can be part of your journey.
• Stay consistent. Stay curious. Stay compliant.

Your first sale won’t come from luck — it’ll come from the work you put in today.

So, don’t wait for permission. Start learning, start testing, and start becoming the entrepreneur you’re meant to be.

Because success doesn’t wait for birthdays. It follows bold moves.