Start with what is already there
Record usable stock on hand, stock already ordered and customer orders still to fulfil. Separate damaged or obsolete items from stock available to sell. A recent stocktake is a stronger starting point than a remembered quantity.
Match the order to demand
Compare recent sales with confirmed orders and supplier lead times. Keep a hopeful sales forecast separate from a committed customer order. Check whether the proposed purchase duplicates goods already on the way.
Put payment dates beside delivery dates
Write down the deposit, balance payment, freight and delivery dates. Add wages, rent and existing commitments over the same period. A supplier discount is only one part of the purchase: quantity, quality, storage and timing also matter.
A purchasing brief to copy
Item and quantity: Usable stock on hand: Stock already ordered: Confirmed customer demand: Expected delivery date: Deposit and balance due dates: Freight or storage costs: Expected customer payment dates:
Bring the purpose into the finance enquiry
If the business is exploring finance for the purchase, describe the stock, the amount and timing required, and the expected customer receipts. The LendFI calculator can provide an indicative estimate; an enquiry starts a separate conversation about the proposed finance.