There are companies who will sell you inventory without a resellers license.
No Licensing Needed Wholesale T-Shirt Suppliers?
But their prices are still higher than what you can get through a true wholesaler.
You need a resellers license because:
1. Your state requires it.
2. With it, you will not have to pay sales tax purchasing your inventory.
3. You will get better pricing from wholesalers.
4. You need a way to remit the collection of sales tax from your customers.