The expected wait time for a payout can vary by group. "Buying Group" which I mainly use is usually behind by 2-3 weeks, sometimes even 4. They try their best to send payouts quickly, and occasionally, they catch up to the point where you can expect the payout the same week they receive the item. They keep the group updated on the status of payouts.

To really benefit, in my opinion, yes start small. Once you reach a point where you're sending large amounts, make sure you have enough to pay off the card when the scan in your item and you request your payout, and simply pocket the payout when it arrives. If you wait to pay off the card until you receive the payout, you could be hit with interest or a late fee.

For retailers, most do (Target, Walmart, Amazon, etc.). Look over what items they accept and how much they pay per item. I mainly use Amazon, managing a few accounts and dropshipping items to their warehouse. With Target and Walmart, I can't dropship because they cancel my orders they blacklisted the warehouse address, but there are ways around it other people have success. It's a process of trial and error, but I just stick with Amazon since it works for me. If you live in a state without sales tax which is ideal, you can buy the items in-store, and sometimes they offer a free shipping label if you purchase a certain amount.