Dropshipping is known for having low startup costs in online businesses.
Main question: Can one start and succeed in dropshipping without any money?
Plan to test this theory step-by-step from product research to marketing.
Finding a Product
Importance of selecting a product that can generate sales.
Product Research Strategies:
Utilized TikTok and Facebook Ads Library initially.
Switched to AutoDS for a tailored search using a 30-day free trial.
AutoDS provides updated product research with market trends.
Selected Product
Chose a back stretcher and posture corrector.
Solves a real problem.
Unique wow factor.
Competitors sell it for $30-$50.
Fits the trending workout and Pilates niche.
Marketing Strategy
Opted for creating original ads to stand out.
Ordered product from Amazon for ad creation.
Plan to return it post-ad creation using Amazon’s 30-day return policy.
Built the dropshipping store on Shopify.
Used a promo for a $1 start with an additional $50 app credit.
Secured a .store domain for 99 cents due to its higher conversion advantage.
Ad Creation
Created ads focusing on a raw, authentic look to blend into TikTok's platform.
Used methods like reducing image noise, increasing quality, and editing overlays.
Emphasized user-generated content to avoid typical ad appearance.
Organic Marketing on TikTok
Utilizes TikTok’s unpredictable virality and equal playing field for newcomers.
Strategy involves:
Engaging content over follower count.
Use of trending sounds and hashtags for visibility.
Emphasis on content that doesn’t appear as ads.
Linked TikTok account to Instagram to direct traffic since TikTok link feature activates post 1,000 followers.
Results and Conclusions
Total initial expense: $21.
Realization: Starting truly with $0 is challenging due to minor unavoidable costs.
Hosted a giveaway to support others in starting their dropshipping journey.
Final Thoughts
Although starting with absolutely no money proved difficult, the challenge demonstrated that minimal expenses can unlock online business opportunities.
Encourages viewers to engage for a potential follow-up on the project’s progress.