Done-for-you ecommerce can work well, but the industry also attracts companies that sell dreams instead of services. The US Federal Trade Commission has taken action against several “passive income” store programs that promised big profits and delivered very little.
Red flags to watch for
- Guaranteed income: any promise of a fixed monthly profit or return. Nobody can guarantee sales.
- Accounts in their name: if the store, brand or seller account is not registered to you, you do not own it.
- Vague sourcing: no clear answer about where products come from or whether suppliers are authorised.
- Pressure to pay now: countdown timers, “last spot” offers and pressure to borrow money.
- No written contract: or a contract that blocks refunds and bans negative reviews.
- Claims you cannot check: secret AI systems or partnerships with big brands that cannot be verified.
Green flags
- Clear pricing and a written service agreement.
- Guarantees about the service itself, such as launch dates, reporting and response times.
- You own every account, login and file.
- Real references and reviews you can verify.
- Honest talk about risks and realistic timelines.
Questions to ask any provider
- Whose name will the seller account be in?
- Where will products come from, and can I see supplier invoices?
- What exactly is included in the monthly fee?
- What happens to my store if I cancel?
- Can I speak to a current client?
We publish our guarantees and our earnings disclaimer so you know exactly what we promise, and what no one can promise.
Want a plan for your store?
Book a free store audit. We will recommend a marketplace, a product direction and a clear quote for your budget.
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