text: hi, i want to start an online store in new york. i have a supplier abroad. what all do i need to get started? hi, i want to sell some ribbons on the internet. i have a manufacturer abroad who is willing to supply to me. i was wondering if anyone could tell me how i can get started, i want to know about the process required legally to import the ribbons and start the business.  thanks seems to me that, at the start, you could just buy the ribbons directly at wholesale price and pay any tariffs when the ribbons come in via the usps or ups or whatever.    from the website noted: "do i need an import license?: for general merchandise (those items not specifically regulated by another agency), importers may file customs entries for their own account without applying for an import license and without the use of a customs broker. this is often the case when receiving a package via the us mail from overseas, or travelers returning from business abroad."   since import taxes are federal, the state of new york should have nothing to do with it.    i would recommend that you start up on ebay.  do some research as to what type of ribbon sales are already out there.  do you want to sell by the bolt?  by the yard?    also you should have an on line store that can be reached without ebay.  there are services out there that make it easy for you.  you can register this store in on line malls.  good luck!  it sounds like a promising business without spending beaucoup bucks on inventory.