A Brand-New Job! Value-Added Dropshipping
LYNNIE VERSION
Would you like to read this article in more grown-up words, still easy to understand? Jump here.
Hi! I’m Lynnie! Today I’m explaining value-added dropshipping. Value-added means you add something good that wasn’t there before.
What makes dropshipping fair? The value you add! Let’s see how. (New to dropshipping? Read about ethical dropshipping first.)
Give it a new job
The fairest way to do dropshipping is to give an existing product a new, useful job. Instead of selling it “as is,” you show it for a surprising use that YOU discovered.
And it often starts by accident! You notice that something at home solves a problem in a way nobody talks about. Aha!
Examples
- A storage box becomes a tool to get organized for homework.
- A kitchen thing solves a totally different problem.
- A baking mat replaces baking paper you’d throw away.
If the new job really helps, telling its new story is easy. Do it together with the helper company. Then you’re not just reselling anymore. You’re picking and reimagining!
Why it earns your margin
This new job is what earns your margin, and makes you different from lazy dropshipping. You opened a new window to the product! People who’d never have found it now discover a solution.
Testing is a MUST
You never touch the package that goes to your customer. True! But before you show any product, you have to test it really well yourself. That’s the fair thing to do. Even better, test a few versions.
How to test
- Buy it yourself, from different helpers if more than one sells it.
- Compare shipping times. How long does it REALLY take?
- Check the package: the box, the condition, any extra stuff inside.
- Use it long enough to honestly say you like it.
- Test the new job you want to show, for real.
Testing is another part of what you add. It protects your customers, your good name, and your money.
Find your idea
Look around your home. What do you use differently than how it’s sold? What problems did you fix with something surprising?
Write them down. Ask friends if the new job would help them. If lots of them say yes, look for helpers and start testing!
Three oopsies
- Making up a new job that doesn’t really work. Customers will notice and send it back!
- Skipping tests to save time or money.
- Copying the helper’s photos and words. Your own photos show the new job and make your shop special.
A story
A dad notices that a magnetic knife strip from the kitchen is PERFECT for holding his kids’ little metal toy cars on the wall. No more lost cars, and it looks super cool!
He tests strips from three helpers and picks the strongest. He takes photos with colorful cars in kids’ rooms. His ads go to parents of little kids. A kitchen thing became a fun toy display!
What’s next?
The next article explains what you really offer in dropshipping. Spoiler: two things at once! The whole module is in the book on our products page. Want a grown-up to help test your idea? Go to our services page.
What grown-ups usually ask (and I answer)
What if customers don’t like my new job idea?
Test it with a tiny ad budget first. Then change the story, or try another product.
How many samples should I order?
At least one from each helper, and use it for a while.
What is value-added dropshipping?
Giving a product a new job, testing it, and helping customers well.
How do I find a new job for a product?
Often by accident! You notice it solves a problem in a surprising way.
Why test it myself?
So you can honestly say you like it.
Should I test from more than one helper?
Yes, if more than one sells it!
What’s lazy dropshipping?
Reselling stuff as it is, with no new idea, no testing and no help.
Will there be step-by-step lessons for each of the ten ways?
Maybe! If lots of people want them. Join the waitlist and you’ll know first.
Where can I get help on a small budget?
Lynnaider shows you ways to start that cost nothing, or very little. You’d be surprised! And a free robot helper called Lynnaider Compass helps you step by step.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be regarded as legal, tax, or business advice. Pursuing an online business does not guarantee income; results depend on many factors including the business environment, individual effort, skills, and consistency. Some links on this site may allow Lynnaider to earn a commission at no additional cost to the reader.
