To make your life easier, just make a simple inventory spread sheet. A spreadsheet with good information is a simple and very easy task to complete. Here is how you can make your own.
First, create small lists of the things you need to purchase. Keep it as simple as possible. At the end of each list, list down all the items that are necessary to complete the purchase. The spreadsheet will be much more effective if you are able to get everything on one list, and that is exactly what you will want to do.
Next, organize your items by the type that you need them for. For example, if you are going to sell apparel, then put down clothing or clothes in a separate list. Items that are required for the next step will not fit on the list, such as shoes, which have separate sections for each style. Determine the right place for the different items on your list. It is usually a section for “in stock” and another for “out of stock”.
Determine how many items you need for each store location. In this case, you only need to make one list for each store. In this way, you will know what you have on hand. Once you have that knowledge, you can start your actual process of gathering the items.
You will need to determine how many items you need to stock the locations that you currently own. You can probably tell by the way I have structured the earlier paragraphs, but that is how I do it. You can also choose to make a second list if you have more items than you know what to do with.
Add any inventory you may be holding back. If you are unsure about whether or not you need to purchase, leave out items that may be needed in the future. The best rule of thumb when it comes to purchasing is to always be prepared, so that you don’t have to wait to get what you need when it’s time to go out and purchase it.
Since the worst thing that could happen would be having to wait to be able to buy an item, do your best to make your purchases as soon as possible. Do not be afraid to throw out an item you have if it is no longer necessary for the current task. This also will help you avoid dealing with unneeded items.
By using a spreadsheet, you will ensure that you have less stress during the entire process. A simple inventory spreadsheet is easy to make and you will find that it will save you time and money when you first get started.
