Have you ever sensed the urge to craft something truly distinctive amid the sea of ordinary phone cases flooding the market?
The US phone accessory market is poised to skyrocket, expected to reach $75.62 billion by 2026. Within this expansive market, there’s a sizable audience craving phone cases that transcend the commonplace. This presents an opportunity to curate your own line of phone cases—ones that harmonize with personal style while ensuring top-tier device protection.
Why start a phone case business?
Launching a custom phone case business offers undeniable advantages:
- Flexibility in sales: Whether online or from a physical kiosk, the options are versatile.
- Easy inventory and shipping: Their compact size simplifies storage and shipping logistics.
- Lower production costs: Typically, production costs remain on the affordable side.
- Choices in production strategies: Opt for print-on-demand for minimal risk or purchase in bulk to enhance profit margins.
- Constant market opportunities: With 44% of smartphone users upgrading every two years, new phone models consistently create market demands.
Is a phone case business profitable?
Establishing a phone case business holds promising potential in the online sphere, especially when offering personalized options that maintain enduring appeal.
Recent insights from Technavio accentuate the surging demand, forecasting a substantial rise in the phone case market’s value by $13.33 billion between 2023 and 2027, with a noteworthy 6.86% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). This trend signifies a plethora of opportunities for entrepreneurs venturing into ecommerce.
Operationally, phone cases pose fewer challenges. Their durability translates to fewer returns, while their lightweight nature ensures cost-effective shipping. Additionally, the profit margins can be enticing. Consider sourcing a phone case for $5 and retailing it for over $10, securing a commendable 50% profit.
What sweetens the deal further? Launching a phone case business requires minimal upfront costs. With an online store setup and integration of a dropshipping application, you can kickstart operations in just a few hours, paving the way for a potentially lucrative venture.
What do you need to start a phone case business?
The cornerstone for any prospective phone case business is a robust action plan. Exploring the diverse array of phone case options for various devices is essential before delving into design. Here’s an overview:
- Gel Cases: These slim and customizable cases offer ample design flexibility. They provide additional grip for better phone handling, are cost-effective, and accommodate a wide range of designs.
- Bumper Cases: These cases prioritize edge and side protection for phones. Some variants encompass full gel sections covering the device’s back, while others focus on strategic wrapping to prevent damage.
- Wallet Cases: Ideal for sophisticated customers seeking comprehensive phone and screen protection. These cases cover the entire device, guarding against scratches, often crafted in leather-style materials that can be customized.
- Hard Cases: Known for their snap-on feature, hard cases excel in shielding phones from damage. They tend to have a longer lifespan compared to gel or rubber options and are open to customization.
- Special Cases: Uniquely featured with extras like enhanced shock protection, built-in charging systems, or distinctive hand-carved designs. While they may come with a higher price tag, their unique attributes can attract customers.
Considering the multitude of phone models available, targeting specific phones initially is practical. Starting with the top-selling phones among your target audience is advisable, given the extensive range in the market.
Tools like Keywords Everywhere offer insights into search volumes for specific phone types, aiding in pinpointing popular models to prioritize. This data can guide initial design and production decisions to cater to prevalent consumer preferences.
Devices to make custom cases for
When initiating your phone case business, a critical decision revolves around choosing the phone models to endorse. Focusing on particular models or potentially overlooked smartphone segments unlocks distinct market avenues. Identifying a need for cases for an upcoming phone can provide a competitive edge over rivals.
As you commence your personalized phone case venture, here’s a list of essential devices to contemplate:
iPhone models:
- iPhone X
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
Samsung Galaxy models:
- Galaxy Z
- Galaxy F
- Galaxy S
- Galaxy A
- Galaxy M
Xiaomi models:
- Mi 9
- Mi 10
- Mi 11
- Xiaomi 11
- Xiaomi 12
- Xiaomi 13
How to make a phone case business: 7 steps to launch
Once you’ve determined the case designs and the specific phone models you’ll focus on, it’s time to outline your journey towards launch. Commencing your own business might initially appear overwhelming, but the dynamic digital landscape makes the entry surprisingly more accessible. Here’s what’s essential to kickstart a phone case business:
1. Find a gap in the market
Successful businesses often stem from identifying a market void and strategizing to occupy that space. Amidst a multitude of phone case companies, pinpointing a specific niche is instrumental in shaping a memorable and competitive brand.
Remember, honing in on a particular niche reduces competition, allowing your company to stand out distinctly. Concentrating on a niche, such as targeting “eco-friendly” customers, not only shapes your brand but also guides business processes, dictating material choices and potential supplier collaborations. For instance, crafting phone cases from sustainable or recycled materials aligns with this niche.
Specializing in a single niche further elevates visibility on search engines like Google, enabling the targeting of specific terms that resonate with your audience. But how do you discover such a gap?
Utilize Google Trends
Tools like Google Trends unveil trending products in your industry, whether it’s “wooden” or “personalized” phone cases. This resource aids in discerning customer preferences for specific phone models.
Conduct Competitor Analysis
Analyzing competitors unveils targeted audiences and reveals untapped consumer groups. For instance, you might notice an absence of phone cases specifically tailored for moms, teachers, or professionals among your competitors’ offerings.
Engage with Your Audience
Engage potential target audiences through surveys on forums and social media groups to gather invaluable insights into potential niches.
Explore Influencers
Explore social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to gauge which phone cases are resonating the most with audiences, allowing you to identify emerging trends and preferences.
2. Determine your target audience
Identifying your target audience holds significant weight in the realm of online sales. Crafting the right phone case design necessitates a deep understanding of the intended buyers. For instance, if you’re creating a case inspired by a spectrum of nail polish shades, comprehending the audience attracted to such designs becomes pivotal.
Delve into essential data points such as:
- Occupation
- Interests
- Age range
- Lifestyle
- Daily routines
- Spending habits
Gathering this information varies across businesses. Utilizing tools like Facebook Audience Insights unveils valuable insights into potential customers. Alternatively, engaging directly with your existing customer base through surveys can provide profound insights.
Distinct demographics exhibit unique preferences. Younger audiences might favor designs inspired by trendy nail polish colors while being more budget-conscious. On the other hand, middle-aged buyers might prioritize durability over design, emphasizing functionality.
3. Design some phone cases
Designing phone cases tailored to your target audience marks the next phase. This involves experimenting with diverse designs, the enjoyable part of the process. Whether creating mockups in Photoshop or utilizing mockup generators offered by print-on-demand (POD) companies, visualizing designs on various phone types is key.
Prior to printing, scrutinize your options as certain companies may have restrictions on printing techniques or case coverage. Here are some approaches to designing your phone cases:
- Customer-generated designs: Engage your social media following by allowing them to upload photos and designs for personalized phone cases.
- Collaboration with freelancers: Numerous online freelance artists offer affordable services to create case designs for various customers.
- Engaging designers: Platforms like Dribbble facilitate connections with designers who might collaborate on a long-term basis or craft entire collections for your brand.
Building a varied selection of case options before launching your brand is crucial. Offering a diverse range matters to smartphone owners seeking choices that align with their preferences. Variety can significantly impact consumer appeal.
4. Create a unique online brand
A brand embodies the essence or character of your business. This identity can be communicated through distinct logos, color schemes, a well-crafted website, packaging strategies, and more. Branding cultivates memorability among your target audience and serves as a differentiator amidst competitors. Ensure you have:
- A distinct logo that sets your brand apart from competitors
- Appealing visuals, including brand photography, animations, videos, and illustrations
- A color palette that conveys a specific identity and personality—understanding color psychology is essential for crafting this palette
- Engaging content and copywriting that reflects your unique tone of voice
- A memorable brand name and mission statement for customer recall
- A defined mission or set of brand values that facilitate customer identification
Researching competitors offers valuable insights into the branding strategies they employ. Note down aspects you appreciate or dislike about similar brands, leveraging available online resources to kickstart your branding efforts. Platforms like Shopify provide tools such as video and logo makers to aid in this process.
5. Source your phone cases
It’s time to secure a source for stocking inventory for your business. Several options are available:
Collaborating with a manufacturer:
Platforms like Alibaba and other online marketplaces offer access to affordable wholesale manufacturers. These platforms provide various phone case types for different devices. Purchasing in bulk is necessary, involving storing numerous cases at once, yet it’s a cost-effective approach.
Utilizing print-on-demand services:
Print-on-demand companies are perfect for seamlessly incorporating your designs onto products and shipping them directly to customers. You select a supplier to apply your designs to chosen phone cases, and these companies handle the production for you.
Exploring dropshipping:
Dropshipping stands out as a cost-effective inventory sourcing method. Choose a manufacturer producing the desired product, and they handle direct shipping to your customers. Tools like DSers offer an array of phone accessories, alleviating the need to manage your own stock.
6. Price your cases
Determining the ideal price for your product stands as one of the most challenging aspects of establishing your phone case business. A price that’s too high may steer customers toward competitors, while an exceptionally low one might imply lower-quality materials.
The pricing you set should reflect the high quality of your designs while remaining within reach for your target market. Start by assessing competitors’ prices as a reference point. Then, consider various factors impacting your pricing, such as production time and the resources needed for manufacturing.
After covering the production costs through pricing, it’s essential to factor in the desired profit margin. Explore different pricing strategies to fine-tune your approach. This ensures your pricing aligns with your brand’s value and maintains a balance between quality and affordability.
7. Build your online store
Building your online store is a thrilling part of launching a new business, paralleled with designing your phone cases. Numerous avenues exist for online sales, but starting with a reputable and user-friendly store builder like Shopify is a sensible choice.
While constructing your site, focus on elements that significantly shape people’s perceptions of your business. Craft compelling product descriptions, showcase stunning product images, and develop impactful landing pages. Additionally, include:
- About and Contact Us pages to establish site credibility
- Checkout pages offering multiple payment options for convenience
- Essential legal information such as privacy policies and terms and conditions
- Incorporation of a blog or news page for effective content marketing
- Use of pop-ups and slide-ins to share enticing offers with customers
Shopify offers a plethora of exceptional features, facilitating a seamless site development process. Moreover, it provides an array of captivating ecommerce themes to choose from, ensuring your site’s visual appeal aligns with your brand’s identity.
8. Promote your phone case brand
At last, the time has come to draw attention to your business.
Promoting your phone case brand is pivotal for cultivating a robust customer base, and the strategies can range from costly to more budget-friendly. Here are tips for a streamlined approach:
Utilize social media
Present vibrant phone case designs that resonate with trending topics or pop culture. For instance, a case inspired by a recent blockbuster movie can generate considerable organic interest.
Engage via email
Craft compelling newsletters featuring your latest designs. Regularly send out a “Phone Case Spotlight” or exclusive offers to keep subscribers eagerly anticipating your emails.
Collaborate with influencers
Identify influencers in the tech or fashion sphere on platforms like YouTube or TikTok. A single review or unboxing video featuring your unique phone case can drive numerous visitors to your store.
Strategize social media advertising
Target specific groups, such as comic book enthusiasts, with ads showcasing cases adorned with their favorite characters. Platforms like Facebook or Instagram are well-suited for tailored campaigns.
Invest in paid ad campaigns
Consider Google Ads with captivating taglines like, “Your Phone’s New Best Friend.” A well-executed ad campaign can significantly enhance visibility and drive sales.
How much does it cost to start a phone case business?
Starting a phone case business doesn’t always demand a hefty budget. Here’s an estimate of potential expenses:
- Business name setup and permits: Approximately $400.
- Essential insurance: A basic policy may cost around $190.
- Branding efforts: Professional business cards and brochures can amount to about $230.
- Online presence: Affordable or free website platforms can initiate your online journey, roughly costing $500.
- Dropshipping considerations: Opting for a dropshipping model removes inventory costs. Investing in good design software, through open-source options or cost-effective subscriptions, may total around $600.
Overall, strategic decision-making might lead to a business launch with an estimated budget of around $1,720.
Starting a custom phone case business in 2024
There you go—every step needed to initiate a phone case business.
Remember, success in this venture will require significant effort and time.
Although profit margins on conventional phone cases tend to be narrow, you can increase your selling price by tailoring them uniquely to your audience’s preferences. The tools and services highlighted earlier will empower you to elevate your phone case collection.
To recap, here are the steps to kickstarting a custom phone case business:
- Identify a market opportunity
- Design custom phone cases
- Develop your brand
- Select a method to source your cases
- Determine a price point
- Establish your online phone case store
- Promote your business
Now equipped with this roadmap, an exciting journey of crafting a phone case brand awaits you. All that’s left is to take that initial leap forward.