Dropshipping Candles: Pros and Cons

When you start your candle company, managing shipping can feel overwhelming. On top of creating your website, managing social media, applying for markets, and everything else that needs to be done to launch your brand, shipping adds another layer of complexity. Finding a partner to dropship your candles might seem ideal initially, but there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider.

Pros of Dropshipping Candles

1. Takes Fulfillment Off Your Plate

With dropshipping, you don't have to worry about the complexities of order fulfillment. This means no more inventory management, packing orders, or dealing with shipping logistics.

2. No Need to Manage Inventory

Dropshipping eliminates the need for inventory storage. You won’t have to stock boxes, learn packing techniques, or deal with the hassle of maintaining physical stock.

Cons of Dropshipping Candles

1. Early Success Often Relies on Personal Connections

Many candle companies see early success through word-of-mouth from friends and relatives and local markets. These sales channels typically require having inventory on hand and do not involve shipping, rendering dropshipping unnecessary.

2. Personalized Customer Experience

Customers often purchase from artisan candle makers to feel a connection with the creator. Including a handwritten thank you note or adding a personal touch to the packaging enhances the unboxing experience, which is only possible if you fulfill orders individually.

3. Dropshipping Costs

Dropshipping partners may have minimum order requirements that can be challenging to meet initially, cutting into your profits. Additionally, they might charge storage fees and packaging costs on top of shipping fees, further reducing your margin.

4. Learning Order Fulfillment Isn’t Difficult

Fulfilling orders can seem daunting at first, but it's manageable with the right tools. We recommend ordering free priority mailers from the USPS website, which are perfect for candles when combined with bubble wrap and packing peanuts. These mailers have a fixed shipping cost, simplifying pricing on your website.

5. Streamlined Shipping Process

Create a USPS account to manage shipments as orders come in. This allows you to enter shipment details online and simply drop off packages at the post office without waiting in line.

Conclusion

While dropshipping can relieve some of the burdens of order fulfillment, it also introduces challenges that can impact your brand's personal touch and profitability. By handling fulfillment yourself, you can create a more personalized experience for your customers and potentially save on costs.

Are you ready to start your candle business and looking for a way to streamline your operations? Explore our collection of private label candles. Start your journey today and create a memorable unboxing experience for your customers!