What Is a Good ROI for Retail Arbitrage?
Many resellers look for at least 30 percent ROI, but the right number depends on how fast the item sells.
ROI in one line
Profit after all fees and costs, divided by what you paid.
A common minimum
Many resellers want 30 percent or more, plus a minimum dollar profit per unit so small items are worth handling.
Speed changes the answer
- A fast seller at 25 percent can beat a slow one at 60 percent
- Money returned in two weeks can be reused
Raise the bar when
- The item is seasonal
- You have never sold it
- It is bulky or fragile
Set two numbers
A minimum ROI and a minimum profit. Pass on anything that misses either.