Determine the toys you need by contacting toy and game distributors and wholesalers

Before finding online wholesalers of games and toys, determine how many of each type of toy you need. Minimum order requirements vary depending on the bulk toy distribution company you choose, and greater discounts are usually given when larger quantities are ordered.

I recommend: Dasaq Wholesale offers bulk toy distribution. They carry a variety of dolls and stuffed toys including plush Peanuts characters and other popular characters. They also sell electronic educational toys. If you'd like to get back to the basics, try Wholesale Wooden Toys for classic infant and toddler wooden toys. Order high-end educational toys from Mudpuppy.

Don't rely solely on distributors and wholesalers of toys and games for product safety information

Stay updated on current safety regulations and developments in the industry. Seek out more information from other sources in addition to distributors of games and distributors of toys.

I recommend: Read more about product safety at the Toy Industry Association, Inc. website. Join the Toy Industry Association, Inc. and potentially consider attending their annual toy fair.

Determine store layout

If you're completely new to the retail toy industry, you need to design your store layout in addition to determining your inventory. Maximize every square inch if space is at a premium.

I recommend: Download a demo of SmartDraw software to try out several store layout options. For those interested in toy retail without starting from scratch, consider franchising. Learning Express Toys offers retail toy franchising, so you won't have to deal directly with wholesale toy distributors and game wholesalers.