Your first bale starts with a plan.
A practical checklist for choosing stock that suits your customers and your budget.
Know your customer
Think about who will buy from you, where you will sell and the categories they already ask for. A smaller, focused range can be easier to learn than many unfamiliar categories.
Plan the full cost
Allow for the bale, transport, sorting, cleaning, minor repairs and your selling costs. Avoid budgeting only for the purchase price. Leave room for pieces that take longer to sell.
Ask before you order
Confirm the category, grade terminology, approximate weight, estimated pieces and what the media represents. Ask whether a video shows the exact lot or a previous opening.
Start with information
Save a shortlist, ask the supplier your questions and compare the available categories. There is no single bale that guarantees a profit; your market and the actual mix matter.