Writing An Order At The Show

While you are shopping a line, you may decide that you would like to purchase something but are not ready to buy it just then. You may go ahead and write up an order form (either theirs or your own) and just hold on to it. It is perfectly acceptable for you to keep the order in your possession until you are ready to place it. Either way, make sure the order is clearly legible. By writing the order clearly and completely, it gives you all the information so that you don’t have to go back and look it up later. It also allows you to keep track of your future dollars spent.

If you do decide to buy at the show:

• Plan your budget/shop carefully to avoid cancellations. You must protect and build your credibility by meeting your commitments.

• Be sure you receive a confirmation copy of the order.

• Request one if it is not offered.

• Make sure it includes ship date and terms (net/30 COD, etc.). Know the difference between a "ship date" and an "in store" date (see glossary). This can cause a problem, especially if you are in a rush to receive the merchandise for a new store opening, for example.

• Read over each order to make sure it is correct.

-This is very important as many costly mistakes can begin with an improperly written or misunderstood order.

-Cancellations and changes on orders are time-consuming and

costly for everyone.

-Many firms charge restocking fees for returned or refused orders (plus you will pay shipping charges both ways).

• Use the Rep, but understand how they work. Let them help you to select merchandise and ask them for sources that compliment your stock, but be aware that Reps typically work on a commission only basis. If your bill is not paid within terms (or at least by 60-90 days) the salesmen will be "charged back" any commission he has received. This means it will be deducted from his next check. Even if you pay your bill after many invoices, the salesman seldom sees any commission because of high collection costs.

• Keep track of your purchases (Form D ) on your product tracking form. This is especially important if you have more than one person writing orders so that there are no duplications. Also, if after the show any purchase orders become misplaced, you will have a record of them on these pages.