Dropshipping is a very common way to run out of stock. How can entrepreneurs prepare for this?
They don’t, at least not often.
Dropshippers don’t think about this possibility and panic when it happens.
This situation is not something you should ignore. You risk losing customers and ratings.
This guide contains all you need to know about dropshipping.
Let’s get to it!
Five Ways to Avoid Dropshipping Stock Issues
Dropshippers rarely plan for stock issues. Here are five ways to get out of this situation if you’re both on the same ship.
1) Find an alternative supplier quickly
Dropshippers often face stock problems because they don’t know of an alternative supplier.
You may have heard the expression “better late then never”, and this is exactly what you need.
We recommend exploring other options if your supplier is not giving you a clear answer or taking too long for you to get restocked.
If you do not have a lead, NicheDropshipping’s dedicated agents would be happy to assist you by sourcing your product.
2) Get in touch with customers to provide a proactive solution
Dropshippers are not able to control all aspects of the business.
Sometimes, it can be difficult to resolve customer issues. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep trying.
Don’t let your customers know if the product they are looking for is not in stock.
Instead, you can contact them to offer a proactive solution such as recommending similar products in your store.
You can also let them know that the product you’re looking to purchase isn’t in the best condition and will take X days to arrive.
If you do say this, ensure that you are on the same page as your supplier.
If you don’t have another supplier to fulfill your order in the timeframe, then find one.
Dropshipping isn’t the only business where good customer service is important.
3) Consider Keeping Some Inventory
This might be against the core principles for dropshipping but having some inventory can serve as a solid backup plan.
Although we don’t ask you to store large quantities, ordering just a few units at your house can help you save money in an emergency.
This strategy has one problem: it is not feasible for expensive products.
However, if you sell cheaper products, this can help you save some money until you find an alternative.
NicheDropshipping also offers bulk inventory to support your products. You can have your products shipped to them from their warehouses in China or the USA.
4) You can sell similar products in your store
Ask your suppliers if they stock a similar product to keep your customers happy.
If they do, add the product to your listings and email it to your customers as an alternative.
Make sure the product isn’t poor quality and be clear about its specifications.
Don’t promote the product falsely if it does not meet customer needs.
5) Communicate openly with your supplier
It would be wonderful if you could get the products sourced direct from the manufacturers.
Dropshipping is not an option because dropshippers prefer to sell at a high MOQ.
Communicate openly with your supplier. Before you sign the deal, confirm the availability of the product.
You can also check their reviews and ratings online to ensure that the supplier you choose is reliable.
Dropshipping stock issues: Why planning ahead is important
Preventive medicine is always better than curative, as the old saying goes. Here are some reasons to avoid dealing with out stock situations.
Protects and increases your rating
There is so much competition, it is important to have a strong reputation for your shop.
Frequent order cancellations not only disappoint customers, but can also harm your reputation.
We recommend that you prepare yourself in advance for stock issues.
This can increase customer satisfaction, which can in turn increase your ratings.
Increase your chances of repeat customers
Any store’s main goal is to receive recurring orders and maintain a cusdtomer base.
Avoiding product stock problems is exactly what you need.
It’s only natural for buyers to look elsewhere if you don’t stock a product.
Once they have made a purchase in another store, it can be difficult to re-attract their attention.
Your Business Growth is Accelerated
Dropshipping is already very competitive.
Grow your business by fulfilling all orders promptly
This will help you build a strong reputation on the market. Your customers will also refer you to potential buyers.
Marketing can be counterproductive if the product is not in stock.
How can you preserve sales in dropshipping when stock is low?
Can you preserve sales even if there isn’t a product in stock? It depends on how you deal with the situation. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
1) Don’t say you’re out of stock
Remember that you don’t want to tell customers that your stock is out of order.
This could cause order cancellations, and even damage your ratings. What can you do instead?
Most of the time, your customers won’t know that there is a return option.
We aren’t asking for you to lie. However, it is possible to manage the situation quite well.
Instead of saying that you are out of stock, say that your shipment hasn’t arrived yet. It would take several days.
You can order the product from another supplier while you wait and have it delivered to your customer.
2) Work with customers positively
Don’t be afraid to say no, even if your stock is out of order. Instead, make an effort to offer a solution.
This will not only save you money, but it will also help you stand out among your competitors.
You can recommend a similar product, or update the customer about the time it will take to restock.
Keep it positive and not let your customers think you are in dire straits.
3) Take some time for yourself
Give your customers the most important word and make sure you have some time for yourself.
What does that mean? For example, if a supplier says that the product will be restocked within 3-4 days, tell customers that it will take at least a week.
This is so that you don’t make false promises to your customers in the event that the supplier doesn’t deliver.
Why do Dropshipping Suppliers run out of stock?
The following are the main reasons suppliers run out of stock:
- The product’s demand is greater than its supply.
- The manufacturing side has technical problems.
- Product shipment delayed
Even the most reliable suppliers may run out of stock from time to time. It is almost always a good idea to have an alternate.
Last Thoughts
Dropshipping is a business that most people ignore.
It happens more often than you might think.
The best thing to do in such situations is not panic and buy some time from your customers.
NicheDropshipping is able to help you if you are unable to locate a reliable lead.
We can help source the products you want, and at the most affordable prices.
