- Rebecca Tomasis
- May 16
- 8 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Looking for a business idea that’s flexible, affordable and doesn’t require managing physical inventory? Digital dropshipping might be just what you need. But is dropshipping worth it? This innovative eCommerce model lets you sell digital products like ebooks, software or online courses without ever handling them yourself. All you need is an internet connection to start and grow your business from anywhere. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of digital dropshipping, explore whether it’s worth pursuing and show you how to turn it into a profitable venture.
What is digital dropshipping?
Digital dropshipping is an innovative dropshipping business model that has been gaining traction in the world of eCommerce. Unlike traditional retail, where you need to stock and manage physical inventory, digital dropshipping allows you to sell products without ever handling them physically. This means you can start your business from anywhere with an internet connection.
With digital dropshipping you sell digital products. Digital products are goods or content that are created, distributed, and consumed in digital form, without a physical presence. These dropshipping products are typically accessed, downloaded or streamed through electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, tablets or e-readers. Unlike physical products, digital products exist in a non-tangible, electronic format.
Get started with making a website using Wix, or follow our guide on how to build a website.
Why is digital dropshipping a good business idea?
It's a low-cost option without the need for physical storage. You can work from anywhere, giving you flexibility and making it a great part time business idea. The digital world has a wide range of products, from ebooks to software licenses, giving you more options for your dropshipping niche. And as your business grows, scaling up is easy without dealing with physical inventory constraints, making it a good scalable business idea too.
13 digital dropshipping products
The digital marketplace is brimming with products that are perfect for starting a dropshipping business. We’ve created a list of 13 digital products that are great for selling online.
01. Ebooks
With the rise of e-readers and mobile devices, ebooks remain a popular choice for readers worldwide. You can dropship ebooks by connecting with a publisher or ebook supplier.
02. Online courses
As lifelong learning becomes the norm, online courses in various niches are in high demand. With course providers or creators, to sell their courses online to your customers.
03. Stock photos
Websites, bloggers and marketers constantly seek high-quality images for their content. This creates demand for high-quality, affordable images.
Learn more: How to start a photography business
04. Graphics & digital artwork
Custom graphics and artwork can be used for branding, websites and more. You can culminate these in one place online for customers to shop from.
05. Plugins and apps
These add functionality to websites and smartphones, enhancing user experience. You can digitally dropship these by working with suppliers of apps and plugins.
06. Digital planners
Templates save time and effort for professionals and individuals alike creating consistent, year-round demand.
07. Printable artwork
Customers love being able to print art at home for personal use or decoration. You can also choose to dropship these more traditionally as printed or physical prints, or as digital copies for customers to print by themselves.
08. Instructional guides
How-to guides on various topics cater to the DIY community and learners of all types and levels and subjects. Check out some more DIY business ideas.
09. Magazines and journals
Online niche publications attract readers interested in specific industries or hobbies.
10. Fitness programs
Digital fitness plans cater to those looking to get fit at home or on the go.
Learn more: How to start a fitness business
11. Recipes & cooking guides
Food enthusiasts are always on the lookout for new culinary experiences and instructions.
Learn more: How to make money as a chef
12. Language learning packs
Language learning continues to be popular among travelers and professionals alike. Selling packs or our courses via digital dropshipping is a great way to get travelers and resources they need before their trip or travel.
13. Digital stickers
These small digital goods add personality to digital communication platforms like social media or messaging apps. You can also consider sticker dropshipping.
Dropshipping suppliers for digital products
When it comes to digital dropshipping, selecting the right suppliers is crucial. Here are some leading dropshipping suppliers that cater to digital products and why they stand out in the industry.
Modalyst
Modalyst focuses on high-quality, independent brands and unique products.
It seamlessly integrates with popular eCommerce platforms like Wix.
They offer automated dropshipping processes, including pricing and inventory updates.
Spocket
Spocket offers a vast network of suppliers from the US and Europe, providing access to digital products alongside physical ones.
It integrates smoothly with eCommerce platforms like Wix, offering automated inventory and order management.
With a focus on high-quality suppliers, Spocket ensures fast and reliable delivery of digital products, allowing you to maintain strong customer satisfaction.
Printify
Printify specializes in custom print-on-demand products, from apparel to accessories.
They have a wide network of printing partners, allowing for faster shipping times worldwide.
The platform is designed to be intuitive, making it easy for newcomers to start selling quickly.
Printful
Printful is known for its high-quality print-on-demand goods and reliable fulfillment services.
They offer white-label services, allowing you to sell products under your brand.
With a broad product range, you can diversify your offerings easily.
Start an online store, then integrate it with Printful via Wix.
AliExpress
AliExpress provides access to a massive range of digital goods from various suppliers.
They’re known for their competitive pricing which allows for attractive profit margins.
Many sellers on AliExpress are accustomed to working with dropshippers and offer services accordingly. Their dropshipping ecosystem is tried and tested.
After making a website to sell online, integrate it with AliExpress partners via Wix.
Advantages of digital dropshipping
Starting a digital dropshipping business has plenty of benefits. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Low startup costs
Digital dropshipping removes the need for physical inventory or warehouses, saving you money on logistics. It’s a budget-friendly option especially for new entrepreneurs.
Scalability
Growing your business is simple. Without physical stock limitations, you can easily add or update products to meet demand.
Flexibility
Run your business from anywhere with an internet connection. Whether you’re looking for location independence or a side hustle, digital dropshipping makes it possible.
Wide product variety
Offer anything from ebooks and online courses to stock photos and music. You can cater to specific niches and interests with ease.
Passive income potential
Once your store is up and running, automation handles sales and delivery. This creates opportunities for steady passive income over time.
Eco-friendly
Without manufacturing, storage or shipping, digital dropshipping is a sustainable option that reduces environmental impact.
Challenges of digital dropshipping
While digital dropshipping has its perks, there are challenges you should consider before starting.
Supplier reliability
You rely on third-party creators for product quality and consistency. If a supplier falls short, it could impact your business and customer trust.
Branding challenges
Selling products created by others makes it harder to establish a unique brand identity and build loyalty with your audience.
Market saturation
The low barrier to entry means competition can be tough. Standing out in popular niches takes strong marketing and clear differentiation.
Licensing and legal issues
Working with digital products often involves licensing agreements. Navigating these can be time-consuming and may require some legal knowledge.
Customer support burden
You’ll need to manage refunds, troubleshoot downloads and handle customer issues, which can become time-intensive.
Limited control
With products you don’t create, you have less control over pricing, updates or customization. This can make it harder to adapt to customer needs.
Digital dropshipping offers exciting opportunities but it’s not without its hurdles. Weigh the pros and cons to see if it’s the right fit for your goals.
How to start a digital dropshipping business
Starting a digital dropshipping business is an easy, low-maintenance way to enter eCommerce. With no inventory to manage, you can focus entirely on selling digital products through your online store. Here’s how to get started step by step:
01. Choose your niche and products
Pick a niche that matches your skills, interests or expertise to connect with the right audience. Research what your target customers value and find in-demand digital products like ebooks, online courses, design templates or stock photos. The goal is to offer unique, valuable solutions that set your store apart.
02. Find reliable suppliers
Partner with trusted suppliers who specialize in high-quality digital goods. Check reviews, pricing and product options to ensure they meet your standards. Platforms like Modalyst, Spocket and Printify are great for sourcing and streamlining order management. A dependable supplier builds trust and keeps your operations running smoothly.
03. Set up your online store
Choose an eCommerce platform, like Wix, that supports digital dropshipping and integrates with your suppliers. Once you're ready to start building your eCommerce website, take some time to browse other industry sites and online store themes for inspiration.
Get started with these professionally-designed eCommerce website templates.
04. List your products
Add your digital products with high-quality images, videos and detailed descriptions that highlight their value. Include your logo to build brand trust and recognition. Use competitive pricing and thoughtful keywords to attract the right customers and boost search visibility. Your product pages should inspire confidence and make purchasing easy.
05. Customers place orders
When a customer makes a purchase, ensure the transaction is smooth and secure. Platforms like Wix handle payments safely while offering tools to optimize the checkout process. A hassle-free experience encourages repeat business and reduces cart abandonment.
06. Delivery and profit
Once an order is placed, your supplier sends the digital product directly to the customer often via email or download link. This automated process means less work for you. You earn the profit between your pricing and the supplier’s cost. Over time, track sales trends and apply effective marketing strategies to refine your approach and grow your revenue.
With digital dropshipping, you focus on creativity, marketing strategies and strategy while the logistics run in the background. It’s a powerful way to launch a business and start earning with minimal overhead.
Digital dropshipping FAQ
How do I choose the right digital products to dropship?
Look for products with high demand, low competition and good profit margins. Consider trends, customer needs, and your interests or expertise.
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