ntory Money Pit TO BUILD STOCK
For many people buying a tent washing machine, their instinct is just to pick a small, medium, or large and be done with it. But I always stop and ask a few questions because what they really need isn’t size. It’s a solution. Think of it like a doctor’s visit. Say you have a headache that won’t go away, so you go down to the clinic. Your doctor won’t just write a prescription without talking to you first. They’re going to ask questions to get to the root of a problem. You might just want some headache medicine and be on your way, but what if it comes back worse? Thinking Beyond Size FIND THE RIGHT TENT WASHER FIT
you’re going to end up upside down. Make that mistake too many times, and you’ll have a warehouse full of inventory and no cash to run your business. So, what makes something worth purchasing? Often, the best items are those that fit your workflow and complement something you already rent. Accessories like tent lights and sides typically have a low added cost but a high margin because they ride along with existing labor. Accessories like silverware are great to have, but the margin is lower because it takes time to count, collect, and clean.
Also, tread carefully with trendy items. That gold flatware may be hot now, but not in six months. And finally, always think about the resale potential of your inventory. If you can sell an item later, that allows you to squeeze the last bit of residual cash out of it.
It’s the same thing when you’re buying something for your rental company. A product or service should do more than just solve a
Ultimately, it comes down to viewing your inventory as an investment. There are always shiny new things available, but the trick is buying items that earn, turn, and fit the way you work.
problem in the short term, especially if it’s a larger purchase. Consider your company’s long-term health and how that product supports it. What’s the why behind that thing you’re buying? What are the benefits you’re interested in? When it comes to tent washers, people have entirely different reasons for wanting one and a different set of problems they’re hoping it will solve.
That’s why I always start the sales process with a conversation to learn more. One customer may only run the machine once or twice a week, so
productivity isn’t a benefit for them; they just want super-clean tents. Another customer with a similar-size company might be more interested in speed. Then there’s automation. Some people want a machine that does all the work. Others don’t mind tending the machine a little more if it’ll save money upfront. We also talk about where a company is headed. Some have stayed the same size for years and aren’t looking to grow. Another company might be expanding fast and aiming to be the go-to in their city. My goal is to match customers with machines that fit their company now and in the future. Knowing what machine to buy starts with knowing the problem you’re trying to solve. Once we figure that out, the rest comes easy. If you’re thinking about a washer but aren’t sure what you need, let’s talk.
3
314-968-3555
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator