Ever heard of dropshipping? It's a business model that's gaining traction in our digital world. What's the big deal? It's a low-cost venture with potential for big returns. You might wonder if it's a good side hustle for you in 2023. The short answer is "yes", but with some ifs and buts. Let's break it down and see if it's your cup of tea.

Dropshipping isn't a dinosaur. It's a thriving business that's growing every year. In this setup, you're the middleman between the customer and the product supplier. The supplier takes care of the inventory and shipping. According to some number crunching, the worldwide dropshipping market might hit a massive $196.78 billion in 2022. So, it's a good business option, no doubt. But is it a good side gig? Let's dive in.

Side gigs are usually part-time gigs. While there are ways to make money on the side, dropshipping isn't always one of them. It's a bit more complicated and requires more than just a basic understanding. So while it's a great business model, whether it's a good side gig is up for debate.

But some folks might find this challenge exciting and doable. If you're one of them, strap in for a thrilling ride into the world of dropshipping.

What's so cool about dropshipping as a side gig in 2023? Here's the scoop:

One big plus of dropshipping is that it's open to everyone. Starting a business can be expensive, but dropshipping cuts down the costs because you don't need to keep a stockpile of products.

Dropshipping lets you work from anywhere and at any time. You can even switch up your product offerings to keep up with market trends. So, if you're looking for a flexible gig or don't dig the 9-to-5 grind, this could be a great fit.

With the right approach, dropshipping can be a real money-spinner. Pick a popular niche with loyal customers, and you can take your business to the next level. Successful dropshippers in niches like pet products are living proof.

But it's not all sunshine and rainbows in the dropshipping world. Here are some of the bumps in the road:

In dropshipping, you're dependent on your suppliers. If they mess up, your reputation takes a hit. Finding a reliable supplier isn't a walk in the park. So if you want full control of your side gig, dropshipping might not be for you.

Because it's so easy to start, dropshipping is super competitive. You'll need to be creative and smart about your marketing and product choices. But just because it's a crowded field doesn't mean you can't make a profit. If you're new, though, you might find it tough to find your feet.

Although dropshipping has low inventory costs, profits can be slim. Both you and your supplier need to make money, which means you'll have to sell products for more than you paid. If you price things too high, though, customers might shop elsewhere. For example, dropshipping on eBay usually only leaves you with about 3.6% profit as of mid-2022. In contrast, Shopify offers around 40% profit.

Dropshipping is not a one-size-fits-all kind of deal. It needs your time and energy, and you'll have to learn some new tricks. If you're already a pro, have some spare time, or know a lot about a specific product area, then it could be a good side gig in 2023.

To make this decision, take some time to think about the good and bad of dropshipping. Look at your own situation and abilities too. In the end, it's all about finding the perfect fit for you.