One of the most essential and time-tested techniques in business-to-customer sales is to buy in bulk for resale. It works great on Shopify if you know what you’re doing. Discover the finer points of this tried-and-true method.
The basic idea: control costs and buy smart to ensure everyone involved in the transaction gets a good deal.
What Should You Look For in a Bulk Purchase for Resale?
When you buy in bulk for resale for B2C, your basic concern should be your ability to make money. Consider the following questions to start:
- How much work or money will it take to divide the bulk purch
ase into retail units? - How long and under what conditions will you have to store the goods?
- What price are other sellers asking for this item?
- How do you intend to differentiate your resell from competitors?
- Will you be able to clear your inventory (at a profit) before demand drops off or the product expires?
Answering these questions will help you keep your business profitable as you plan for adequate cash flow. Next, you want to look at whether the merchant is equipped to handle your order in a way that meets your business needs. Look for the following signs of professionalism:
- Transparent bulk pricing
- Specific shipping and delivery policies
- Detailed product information
- Responsive customer service, especially for custom orders
You’ll want to look for the same things if you intend to buy and resell for wholesale (business-to-business). There might be something you can learn from the merchant’s Shopify customization, customer service, pricing strategy, or merchandise mix. Incorporate the successes and avoid the failures to refine your operations.
Is It Legal To Buy in Bulk and Resell?
It is usually legal to buy in bulk and resell. However, keep in mind that you’re subject to the relevant packaging laws for your jurisdiction. These might include:
- Clear, non-deceptive labeling
- Safety warnings
- Ingredient lists
In some cases, you might have to maintain other standards when buying in bulk for resale. Refer to your contracts, franchise documents, and other deal-specific documents for this information.
Finally, depending on the target market, reselling some items might require a license or be illegal. Common examples include tobacco, alcohol, ivory, meat, shell, bone, horn, medical samples, and pharmaceuticals.
Is It Cheaper To Buy in Bulk for Resale?
It’s usually cheaper to buy in bulk for resale. However, you always want to be on the lookout for any type of deal; buying smaller lots or individual items can sometimes be the cheapest option. It generally depends on your professional network and your industry.
How Do You Buy in Bulk for Resale To Make Money Over the Long Term?
Making your first bulk purchase can be intimidating. You might feel like you’re asking for too much. Just remember that this is how merchants make money — it’s your right to look for a deal that serves your business interests.
Even if you find a few great bulk deals here and there, always keep the basics in mind. How much will it cost to resell? Can you move the goods quickly enough? Is the seller reliable?
Whether you’re B2B or B2C, these are the types of things that let you profit over the long term when you buy in bulk for resale.
Buy in Bulk for Resale (and Resell in Bulk) Like a Pro
Once you start making bulk purchases, you might find yourself selling in bulk, too. Make sure your customers have the options they want by downloading our wholesale pricing apps today.
