Your business probably uses quite a number of office supplies that help to keep the flow of work going smoothly. Buying cheap office supplies in bulk is a good way to save money on items that your company uses a lot. However, sometimes you may run out of certain items without realizing it. Not having enough supplies on hand when employees need them right away is annoying, but it also causes delays while everyone waits for new supplies to come in.
On the other hand, you may be overstocked on cheap office supplies that don’t get used very often. The best way to keep bulk supplies managed efficiently is to completely organize the ordering process. This simple system saves time, money and frustration.
Create a List
It is a good idea to keep track of every single item that is ordered. Create a document and list all of these items so that they can be seen at a glance. Place a notation next to items you use the most.
Track Usage
A good way to see which items you order a lot, and which are seldom used, is to track their monthly usage. On a monthly basis, you can note how many items are currently in stock. Tracking lets you see which items may need to be ordered soon.
Look at Costs
Getting the best deal on cheap office supplies often depends on the amount of value the vendor is providing. The best vendors will offer quality products at prices that fit your budget.
Prevent Waste
A lot of money goes down the drain due to waste. If you buy perishable items that expire after a certain date, take care not to purchase more than can reasonably be used within that time. This is why having a monthly usage list is important. For perishables make note of the expiration date and adjust usage accordingly.
Special Offers
Another popular way to save money on bulk supply orders is to take advantage of special offers. Look for coupons, special price reductions and free shipping discounts.
Plan Ahead
Being truly savvy when purchasing your supplies is also about smart planning. For instance, the most popular time of year for office supply promotions is August through October. That is when vendors offer great deals to attract the back to school crowd. In general, you should periodically consult your supply list and stick to an organized ordering schedule.
