I figured that while I look around the internet and libraries trying to find information, that someone here might already know the answer, or know someone who does, like a relative in the business etc. I'm wondering if it's legal to say, go to newegg, buy parts, build a computer then sell it online. Say I make a website and a "company" and people can order a computer, I can sell them a custom built computer right? Or do I need permission from AMD/Intel, the chassis manufacturer, the Mobo manufacturer, etc.? Also, I know if I want to use a picture of a chassis from the manufacturer I'd need permission, but if I took my own picture of the product, would I need permission to display it? Normally most of these things aren't an issue, but since we're talking in terms of profiting, and it's not under the table, what permission from who will I need?

Thanks, sharf

Why would they buy from you when they can just buy from newegg?

Like I said, selling a custom built computer, I buy parts from newegg, build it, install the OS if they want, etc. etc.

Why would anyone buy anything that's a compilation of parts available from anyone if they could buy suppliers or manufacturers?

Pretty much. It isn't a good business model; by the time you factor in newegg prices, shipping, time cost, and your own profit margin, you won't be making much. About the only market you could crash is actually open a store to physically local customers and sell one model (so you can bulk order parts). Then, however, you're talking about more rent and/or advertising costs.

The only legal hurdle is that if you don't make a company (incorporate), you are personally liable for any defects in what you sell if they are not explicitly stated in your warranty or lack thereof.

I'm in no way a professional on this, but if you want to start a business or something, you can start off by advertising that you can custom-make computers to serve someone's specifications on a budget. Like Ex is for SEN, except he just gives you the best parts. If you just try to compete with Dell or the like, as noted before, you'll have trouble.

To get real legal answers, SEN probably isn't your best bet. There is a reason "lawyer" is a profession. You'll probably need to consult with one to get the real answers you need, and that can be expensive depending on where you go.

Thanks to those who answered the question...though I suppose that's what I get for posting on SEN, people can't just answer the question, they have to go one involving their oppinion. Truth of the matter is, you CAN make a computer, that's as good as any name brand desktop(or laptop) and sell it, making a decent profit, while still making it worth while to the customer. Comparing prices I can make a 100 dollar profit on a computer compaired to dell, while keeping it 400 dollars cheaper for the consumer. Likewise I can make roughly 60 dollars profit while keeping it 340 cheaper than a gateway with the same specs. I've been doing this for people for a while, however it's all been under the table. I want to know the legality of making a website and selling it. I do know I need to register for the company name, etc. etc. taxes and so forth. Been there before. I'm asking if I need permission from companies to use their parts (mobos etc.) in the computers I sell. I'm already doing what Vrael said, and doing my own research, and trying to contact someone who knows what they're talking about.

Thanks anyway guys, sharf

Don't get snippy, sharf. If you've done this before, you should know that companies like intel sell there things so that people like you can buy it and resell it.

I'm not getting snippy. I simply asked a question, and was complaining that everyone was arguing about something completely different from my original post. Anyway, I was pretty sure that was the case, but I'm just making sure. Thanks Fire_Kame.

Also...I know it would be illegal to use a manufacturer's pictures without permission, but would it be illegal to post my own pictures of the product without permission from the company?