Running an ecommerce brand is exciting. But few things are more frustrating than stockouts. You spend money getting customers to your website, and then… your hottest item is gone. Bye-bye sale!
So, how do you avoid stockouts and keep your store running smoothly? Below are some fun, simple tips to help your brand stay ahead of the game.
1. Keep an Eye on Sales Trends
Your best weapon is your data. Check your sales history. Did yoga mats fly off the shelves last summer? Was there a surge in pet toy sales last Christmas?
Use this information to predict demand. The more you know, the better you can prepare.
Bonus tip: Look at trends in your industry. If fidget toys are trending again, you’ll want to be ready with stock in hand!
2. Set Up Inventory Alerts
Tools like Shopify, Skubana or Zoho Inventory let you set up automatic alerts. When stock dips below a certain level – ping! You get notified.
No more “Oops! We’re out of stock!”
3. Always Have a Safety Stock
Think of safety stock like a rainy day fund for your inventory. It’s a small stash of extra items in case demand spikes or your supplier has delays.
Here’s a super easy way to calculate it:
- Check your average daily sales.
- Know how long it takes to restock.
- Multiply them together and add a little extra just in case.
4. Forecast Like a Fortune Teller (Almost)
Okay, you don’t need a crystal ball. But demand forecasting tools can feel magical.
Use tools like:
- Google Trends
- Looker or Tableau dashboards
- Inventory management software with forecasting
These help you see what’s coming so you can act fast.
5. Talk With Your Suppliers
Your supplier is your partner. The better your relationship, the smoother things go.
Pro tip: Give suppliers a heads-up on upcoming promotions or expected demand increases. They’ll appreciate it—and you’ll get your stock in time.
6. Have Backup Suppliers Ready
One supplier is good. Two is better.
Imagine this: Your supplier runs out of a key item. You’ve got ads running. Customers are clicking… but no product to sell. Ouch.
Having a backup means you can switch fast and keep selling.
7. Use Bundle Deals
This one’s fun and strategic.
Let’s say Product A is overstocked and Product B is selling fast. Create a bundle! Sell both together at a small discount.
This helps move slower items and reduces the risk of stocking out on your popular products too fast.
8. Segment Your Inventory
Not all products are created equal. Some bring in more revenue, while others are nice-to-haves.
Use the ABC method:
- A: High priority, always in stock
- B: Medium movers, restock regularly
- C: Low sellers, order only as needed
This helps you focus on what truly matters.
9. Track Returns and Cancellations
Returned items are often forgotten… but they’re still stock!
Have a system to bring returned items back into inventory quickly. This could give you a few more sales without needing a new order.
10. Use Technology – It’s Your Best Friend
Inventory management tech isn’t just for big-box stores anymore. There are plenty of tools made just for ecommerce brands.
Here are a few awesome options:
- TradeGecko
- DEAR Inventory
- Sellbrite
These tools track sales, update stock levels automatically, and alert you when it’s time to reorder.
Final Thoughts
Stockouts are sneaky. They upset customers and hurt your bottom line. But with these simple strategies, you can keep your shelves full and your customers happy.
Stay organized, trust your data, and use smart tools. Your future self (and your customers) will thank you.
