Managing inventory for a thrift store requires efficient organization and tracking systems to ensure smooth operations. Here are some steps to effectively manage your thrift store's inventory.
Sort Items Early
Categorize and sort items: Divide your inventory into categories such as clothing, accessories, home decor, furniture, electronics, etc. Depending on how much inventory you have, you can always hire an assistant to help you. Sort early this also helps with photographing and adding your inventory to your websites.
This helps in organizing items and locating them easily when needed.
Inventory A Labeling System
Assign unique labels or codes to each item in your inventory. This can be as simple as using stickers or tags with item numbers. Make sure to record these codes in your inventory management system.
You may choose to use a labeling system by size, color, etc. Personally, I use a labeling system that includes size, color, and type of item. (eg, Boys Tee Size: Large). I place items in a bin labeled as such and the bin has a number so my items are easy to find as well.
Clearly label each storage area to minimize confusion and save time when retrieving items.
Use Inventory Software
Use inventory management software or spreadsheet tools to track your inventory. Include details such as item descriptions, labels, purchase dates, prices, and any specific information about each item.
You can go basic or as sophisticated as you want. Some apps you use may include an inventory management system. Sometimes it's easier to use what we are already paying for or what is free to keep track of our inventory. Some people may use a spreadsheet to start and then gradually move to some form of computerized inventory.
You may go through several inventory systems to find the one that works best for you.
Perform Regular Stock Checks
Conduct routine stock checks to ensure accuracy and identify any discrepancies. Physically count items in each category and compare them to the recorded quantities in your inventory management system.
This is important if you are using your own management inventory system and if you are just starting out and you are doing inventory manually (by hand or pencil/paper method).
If you are getting started in your thrift business make sure you are as organized as you can be. As time goes on, your inventory grows, and you are selling more your business needs will grow and change. Just like you I started out small and kept organized using a planner, Google Docs spreadsheets, and I kept notes of things I needed to do for my thrift business.
In the last couple of months I have changed my inventory system and now use a system called Listly
Join in the Fun!
Lastly, if you are new to the online reseller space consider joining my reseller success circle. This circle is just for newbies like you who need extra support with your new business. Here you get to grow, learn, and network with others who are just starting.
Click the picture above or here to join for FREE! Looking forward to seeing you in the circle!
Business Hack for Storage
Before I go let me leave you with a gem if you need storage bins for your products. I won't bore you with the details you can catch my gem of the week here! Purchase and store easily.
Grab yours now from my Amazon store and use these storage bins for just about anything you need.
Store. Save space. Enjoy!
#thrifteern #thrifteecircle #newreseller #resellerblog #resellercommunity #newthriftstore #newonlinethriftstore #thriftstore #thriftstoreowner #thrifthaul #thrifter #discountshopper #newbusinessowner #newbusinessownertips #businesssuccess #businesstips #businessgrowth #womenbusinessowner #thriftshop #thrift #thrifting #preloved #thriftstorefinds #vintage #thriftedfashion #secondhand #secondbranded #prelovedbranded #fashion #thriftshopping #vintageclothing #vintagestyle #thriftfinds #sustainablefashion #secondstuff #negotiations #negotiator
Comments