Selling Horse Tack Online

If you sell horse tack, or simply stock a small supply horse tack and supplies in your barn or stable for your clients, you should know that selling those same products online can be another source of revenue for your business. And it's easy! Here's how:

First, find shopping cart software or an online shopping cart program to add to your web site. There are many options available - just do a search on your favorite search engine and find one that you think will work for you based on your internet and computer skills. Some features to look for in shopping cart tools:

- Ability to add pictures of your products - a small, thumbnail size image and a larger size to show more detail is ideal
- Ability to accept multiple payment options like credit cards, PayPal•, online checks, COD, etc.
- Ability to offer multiple shipping options such as UPS, FedEx, USPS, overnight delivery, etc.
- Product search
- "On Sale" or product promotion features
- Shipping and tax calculators
- Sales, order and tax reports
- Inventory management

Second, if you don't already have one, apply for a merchant account so you can accept credit cards on your web site.

Third, incorporate the shopping cart into your web site by linking to the product pages from your existing web pages. Make sure you create your product pages using the same color scheme as your web site. You want the transition from your web site to your shopping cart to be as seamless as possible. If you don't have a web site, find a standalone shopping cart that is a web site within itself.

Fourth, add your products to the catalog. Some things you need to include in your product descriptions are:

- A picture of the product - small, thumbnail size that links to a larger view.
- A complete description of the product.
- Color, size, or style options available.
- Special shipping charges or return policies for the item, if applicable.
- Availability - is the item in stock or is a special order required.

Fifth, add a page on your web site that describes your policies: shipping, returns, privacy, security and customer service. Always include a customer service email address and/or phone number.

All that's left is for you to get the word out about your new, online horse tack store! You can do this by telling all your family, friends and existing clients. You'll also want to submit your store to search engines, and then maybe test some online advertising. You'll want to include the address of your online store on all your marketing creative: business cards, letterhead, print advertising, etc. That's it! Good luck in creating your own online horse tack store.