Eventually, most people will need to purchase a mattress and box spring set; most have a short lifespan of anywhere between eight and 10 years. Despite the overabundance of major mattress retailers, due to the high prices found at such mattress and furniture stores, many people are choosing to buy their beds from independent retailers. Running a mattress selling business from home can be quite profitable, but requires careful planning.

Obtain the business documentation required in your city and state to operate a retail business. This may mean getting a resale permit, sales tax and use permit, assumed name certificate (DBA) or employer identification number (EIN). These documents will allow you to purchase mattresses wholesale.

Find a wholesale mattress manufacturer or distributor in your area or as close to you as possible to save on shipping fees. Mattress wholesalers include companies such as American Wholesale Mattress or Wholesale Mattress Distributors.

Decide whether you will offer delivery of the mattresses you sell or require that customers transport their own purchases. If you choose to offer delivery, you will need a flatbed truck or trailer, and can then charge a delivery fee.

Secure a place to store your mattresses that is clean, free of dust, dirt and pets, and away from sunlight and dampness. A commercial warehouse or temperature-controlled storage facility would work well.

Purchase an inventory of mattresses. The most commonly used types are queen and full size mattresses, but you should also stock a few king and twin size mattresses as well. Alternatively, you could specialize in selling toddler or crib mattresses.

Promote your mattress selling business by posting on classified ads websites and forums such as Craigslist.org and Kijiji, launching a promotional blog or website and hanging out coupons, business cards or fliers to complementary businesses such as home décor stores and house cleaning operations.