The small-business handbook
Know the next step. Run a better shop.
Clear explanations for the questions that come up when you start, bill, buy, collect and grow. Choose your language and work through one task at a time.
10 guides found
Stock & purchasing
Know what came in, what sold and what needs attention.
How to track stock in a small shop
Connect opening quantities, purchases, sales, returns and adjustments so you can explain the stock remaining.
How to enter opening stock from a notebook or Excel
Choose a cutoff date, clean item data, count quantities and reconcile opening stock before switching systems.
How to record purchases and update stock correctly
Match the supplier document, actual goods received, cost and payment so purchasing and inventory remain connected.
How to set reorder levels and avoid stockouts
Use sales pace, supplier lead time and a practical buffer to decide when stock needs attention.
How to identify slow-moving and dead stock
Compare item movement, stock age and cash tied up before discounting, returning or stopping purchases.
How to reconcile physical stock with your records
Count goods, explain differences and document approved adjustments without losing the stock history.
How to manage stock in multiple warehouses
Separate location balances and record transfers so goods do not appear twice or disappear between stores.
How to track batches and expiry dates in a shop
Keep batch identity, expiry and saleable quantity together when receiving, storing and selling goods.
How to prepare a purchase order for a supplier
Create a clear order with items, units, delivery terms and approval before goods arrive.
How to record purchase returns and supplier adjustments
Connect returned goods, supplier credits and refunds to the original purchase without duplicating the adjustment.