When starting an importing or reselling business, fast-moving products matter more than high margins. Products that sell quickly help you recover your capital, reduce storage risk and build confidence. In Zambia, everyday essentials consistently outperform “luxury” items. This guide breaks down ten products that sell reliably every month and explains why they work for beginners.
Step 1: Phone Chargers
Phone chargers are one of the fastest-moving accessories in Zambia. Phones are used daily and chargers frequently get damaged or lost. Demand is constant across students, office workers and commuters.
- Why it sells fast: High replacement rate
- Beginner advantage: Lightweight, low breakage risk
- Sourcing tip: Focus on fast-charging models
- Selling tip: Bundle with cables for quicker turnover
Step 2: Charging Cables
Charging cables wear out faster than chargers, which creates repeat demand. Customers often buy more than one at a time.
- Why it sells fast: Frequent breakage
- Beginner advantage: Very low unit cost
- Sourcing tip: Choose reinforced or braided cables
- Selling tip: Offer bundle discounts
Step 3: Earphones
Earphones are popular impulse purchases, especially in busy areas like bus stations and markets. Wired earphones still sell well because they are affordable.
- Why it sells fast: Daily use item
- Beginner advantage: Small size, easy storage
- Sourcing tip: Avoid ultra-cheap sound quality
- Selling tip: Let customers test before buying
Step 4: Tempered Glass Screen Protectors
Screen protectors are essential for smartphone users and sell especially well near phone repair shops.
- Why it sells fast: Phones break easily
- Beginner advantage: Extremely low cost
- Sourcing tip: Stock common phone models
- Selling tip: Sell with free fitting if possible
Step 5: Phone Covers
Phone covers sell consistently because customers like changing styles. Fashion and protection drive demand.
- Why it sells fast: Style + protection
- Beginner advantage: Variety encourages repeat buyers
- Sourcing tip: Focus on popular phone brands
- Selling tip: Display visibly to attract impulse buyers
Step 6: Bluetooth Speakers
Small Bluetooth speakers sell well for home use, outdoor gatherings and gifting.
- Why it sells fast: Affordable entertainment item
- Beginner advantage: Moderate pricing, steady demand
- Sourcing tip: Test sound quality before bulk buying
- Selling tip: Demonstrate volume and bass
Step 7: Power Banks
Power banks are popular due to power outages and long travel hours.
- Why it sells fast: Practical everyday use
- Beginner advantage: Strong perceived value
- Sourcing tip: Prioritise capacity and safety
- Selling tip: Emphasise reliability over price
Step 8: LED Bulbs
LED bulbs sell year-round and appeal to both households and small businesses.
- Why it sells fast: Energy-saving demand
- Beginner advantage: Consistent sales
- Sourcing tip: Choose durable, branded-quality bulbs
- Selling tip: Sell in small packs
Step 9: Extension Cables
Extension cables are basic household necessities that sell steadily.
- Why it sells fast: Used in homes and offices
- Beginner advantage: Simple product, low returns
- Sourcing tip: Focus on safety and cable thickness
- Selling tip: Highlight durability
Step 10: Car Chargers
Car chargers sell well to taxi drivers, delivery drivers and commuters.
- Why it sells fast: Daily use in vehicles
- Beginner advantage: Small, affordable accessory
- Sourcing tip: Dual-port fast chargers perform best
- Selling tip: Target drivers directly
How to Choose Which Product to Start With
Beginners should consider:
- Starting capital
- Storage space
- Breakage risk
- Target customer
It is better to master one or two products than to stock many items at once.
Common Beginner Mistakes
- Buying too many products at once
- Choosing slow-moving luxury items
- Ignoring product quality
- Overpricing compared to the local market
