How to Buy Wholesale From Department Stores

Shopping in bulk can save money.

Wholesale items can be purchased through the Internet or face-to-face with department store representatives. Either choice requires research on your part to get the largest quantity for the lowest price. Consider all costs of buying wholesale--not only the product, but shipping, insurance and business licenses or permits.

Instructions

1. Apply for a reseller ID or business license before you begin. Buying wholesale items still makes you a business owner and there are rules and regulations to follow. Get this information at your local chamber of commerce, financial institution or various websites.

2. Decide on the type of merchandise you are going to purchase whether it is clothing, electronics, household items or a combination of different selections.

3. Make a detailed list of the items you want to purchase and the highest price you are willing to pay for your wholesale order. Be specific when it comes to clothing (color, sizes, designers). When you place your order, knowing your limits helps during the negotiation process. However, if you are new to buying wholesale, the suppliers may require a large purchase your first time.

4. Research the different department stores looking for the lowest price and quality for your wholesale order. Ask about the amount of time it takes for delivery and whether items be shipped at the same time or separated. Also inquire about the policy of the department stores regarding returns or refunds for items that are damaged during transit and possible discounts for larger quantity of orders placed.

5. Ask to inspect the items you are considering for your order. If you are placing a wholesale order over the Internet make an agreement so that if the products purchased do not match products received you will be refunded your purchase price, or another arrangement can be made that is suitable to both parties. You do not want to be left holding items you paid for but did not order or are not able to sell.

6. Talk to the department store representative to set up an account to be billed monthly for your orders. The criteria for establishing accounts vary with each department store. If asked, fill out a credit application to begin the process of setting up an account. Be prepared to give references of companies that you have done business with before, financial institutions and credit card information. You may know immediately or within 10 to 14 business days.

7. Place the order, completing the order form and making any payments--up-front payments can be made with the balance to be paid upon delivery or you can sign the order form agreeing to be billed the total amount upon an agreed date.

References

• Wholesale: Retailers