Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Back-to-School Shopping Trends 2024
- Top 25 Back-to-School Supplies for Dropshipping in 2024
- Conclusion
Introduction
As summer approaches, it’s never too early for dropshippers to gear up for the back-to-school season. For many, June marks the beginning of back-to-class shopping. One striking statistic reveals that one in every five people starts their back-to-school or back-to-college shopping as early as June. This makes back-to-class shopping one of the most crucial consumer events of the year. According to eMarketer, US back-to-school retail sales are projected to grow by 3.2% to reach $81.16 billion this year. The question remains: what items can dropshippers sell online to take full advantage of this lucrative period?
In this post, we'll delve into the back-to-school shopping trends of 2024, unravel the most profitable niches, and present the best back-to-school supplies for dropshipping. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with insights and strategies to maximize your sales during this bustling shopping season.
Back-to-School Shopping Trends 2024
Early Shopping Surge
One noticeable trend in 2024 is the earlier onset of back-to-school shopping. According to a survey conducted by LTK in March 2024, many consumers have commenced their shopping as early as late May. Nearly half (49%) of US adults are expected to start their back-to-school shopping by early July. This shift necessitates dropshippers to prep their inventory ahead of time to meet the early demand and capitalize on retailer events like Prime Day.
Focused Spending on Essentials
Economic conditions often dictate consumer priorities, and in 2024, school supplies, clothing, accessories, and shoes are at the forefront of spending plans. School supplies continue to be indispensable, with approximately 96% of consumers planning to purchase items for back-to-school and 92% for back-to-college. Ensuring inventory in these crucial categories can significantly boost your sales.
Dominance of Online Shopping
The trend towards online shopping, accelerated by the pandemic, shows no signs of slowing down. The top destinations for back-to-school shopping include online platforms (55%), department stores (45%), discount retailers (45%), clothing stores (41%), and electronics stores (23%). For back-to-college shopping, the figures are similar, with online shopping being the primary choice (49%).
Influence of Social Media
Social media plays a pivotal role in back-to-school shopping, especially among younger generations. About 71% of Gen Z and Millennials are more likely to try a brand after seeing a creator's post. Therefore, partnering with social media influencers can substantially heighten your product’s visibility and allure.
Top 25 Back-to-School Supplies for Dropshipping in 2024
1. Ballpoint Pens
Ballpoint pens are essential, yet the market for unique designs such as 6-in-1 multi-tools pens, magnetic metal pens, multi-color ballpoint pens, and stress relief sponge pens offers an edge. These novel items promise higher attraction and exclusivity in the online dropshipping space.
2. Highlighter Pens
Favored by high school and college students for note-taking, highlighter pens—especially those with fluorescent, glitter colors, or double-ended markers—are bound to be best-sellers.
3. Big Capacity Pencil Case
With the growing need for organization, big-capacity pencil cases are a hit among parents and students. These are practical and highly sought after during the back-to-school season.
4. Food-Shaped Pencil Case
Extending to college students seeking personalization, food-shaped pencil cases offer a quirky, unique appeal. Just remember to market these as purely decorative items.
5. Animal & Food & Puzzle Erasers
Cute erasers shaped like animals, food, or puzzles are more than just erasers—they're stress-relief toys. Although best avoided for toddlers due to small parts, these make perfect additions for older students.
6. Loose Leaf Notebook
Loose-leaf notebooks are not just flexible; they also come in various sizes and texture patterns, making them increasingly preferred over traditional ones. Their peak sales period aligns with the back-to-school rush.
7. School Stationery Set
Bundled supply kits or school stationery sets save time for busy parents who look for convenience. These sets are popular not just during the school season but also during promotional events like Black Friday.
8. Large Capacity School Bags & Backpacks
Whether for college students or school children, large-capacity backpacks are essential. Their functionality and practicality make them a must-have on any dropshipper's list.
9. Toddler Backpacks
For the younger age group, backpacks in cute animal shapes are favored by parents for both functionality and easy visibility during school pickups.
10. School Water Bottle
From gym sessions to classroom use, colorful and functional water bottles with straw or Tumbler designs are highly demanded across all age groups.
11. Planner Notebooks & Journals
With the popularity of scrapbooking, planner notebooks and kits—with stickers, washi tapes, and other decor elements—cater to students’ creative and organizational needs.
12. Scrapbook Stickers & Decals
Decals for laptops, water bottles, and other items add a touch of personalization and are an excellent cross-sell with other school supplies.
13. Polaroid Album & Photocard Album
Capturing and keeping school memories is vital for students. Polaroid and photocard albums, particularly those targeting K-pop enthusiasts, can see significant sales.
14. Wax Seal Stamp Kit
Wax seal stamp kits have become a niche art form. They serve as decorative items for invitations, cards, and gifts, appealing particularly to the creative segment of your audience.
15. LCD Writing Tablet & LED Writing Board
LCD writing tablets and LED boards cater to both younger and older students as educational and creative tools.
16. Lunch Box for Kids
A practical lunch box is something every parent considers when preparing their child for school. This everyday essential is a solid dropshipping item.
17. Name Stamp
Customized name stamps prevent loss of personal items and are trending among school-going children. Consider confidential security stamps or teacher stamps for broader appeal.
18. Table Lamp
Eye-caring table lamps are essential for students studying late into the night. Their sales peak during the back-to-school season.
19. Pen Holder
Organized desktops enhance productivity, making pen holders a practical and sellable item. Rotating pen holders in cream, transparent, or minimalist designs are especially popular.
20. Travel Duffle Bag
College students traveling back to school need durable, spacious duffle bags. Their usability during travel drives consistent demand.
21. Calculator for Student
Modern calculators with keyboard-type keys are efficient and entertaining, making learning more engaging for students.
22. Laptop Stand for Desk
Laptop stands aid in comfortable usage, benefiting both students and professionals. They remain a steady, popular purchase.
23. Wireless Keyboard and Mouse
Accessorizing with wireless keyboards and mice for various devices is practical and widely favored among students.
24. Privacy Screen Protector & Phone Case
Privacy screen protectors help maintain personal information security—a significant concern for students shopping for smartphones and accessories.
25. Earphone Case & Airpods Case Cover
Earphone and Airpods cases are nearly ubiquitous among college students, offering an opportunity for personalization and increased engagement.
Conclusion
The back-to-school season offers a profitable window for dropshippers. Understanding current trends and tapping into the essential, high-demand categories listed can significantly boost your sales. Early preparation and strategic marketing will allow you to edge out competitors and capitalize on one of the year's most substantial consumer shopping events.
FAQ
Q1: When should I start advertising my back-to-school products?
Start marketing your back-to-school items as early as late May or early June to catch early shoppers and align with retailer events.
Q2: How can I leverage social media for back-to-school sales?
Partner with influencers and utilize social media platforms to increase visibility and drive sales, especially targeting Gen Z and Millennials.
Q3: What are some high-demand bundled school items?
Stationery sets, lunch boxes, and backpack kits are convenient for parents and highly sought-after during the back-to-school season.
Q4: What are unique back-to-school items to consider?
Consider items like food-shaped pencil cases, animal-themed erasers, wax seal stamp kits, and personalized name stamps to stand out and attract niche segments.
By adhering to these trends and recommendations, you can make the most of the 2024 back-to-school shopping season. Happy dropshipping!
