5 Benefits of An Inventory Loan
Having adequate inventory to meet customer demand is a top concern for small businesses. Unfortunately, inventory can be one of the most challenging things for small business owners to manage due to fluctuations in sales. Still, there are many financing options available to small business owners, and in this case an inventory loan is often the best option.
If you’re interested in an inventory loan, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll provide you with information about inventory loans, as well as how you could benefit from this type of financing.
What is an Inventory Loan?
An inventory loan is a short-term loan or line of credit that is issued to small business owners to help them buy inventory. Since financial institutions often use inventory as collateral, they could request a history of inventory purchase orders. Thus, this type of loan is primarily issued to small businesses that have already been established, rather than to start-ups.
The Benefits of An Inventory Loan
An inventory loan can benefit small businesses in a variety of industries, specifically those in the retail, wholesale, and food service industries. There are five significant ways an inventory loan can benefit your small business:
1. Expand Product Lines
As a business owner, you know the importance of keeping up with your existing product lines. However, by only focusing on current lines, you could be missing an opportunity to offer additional products to your customers. Often when a customer purchases one product, they’ll also need a related, supporting item. For instance, if your business sells protein powder and dietary supplements, consider selling energy drinks, protein bars, and water bottles. By adding new items to your repertoire, you could majorly increase sales. An inventory loan can provide you with the working capital you need to invest in these new product offerings!
2. Re-Order Popular Inventory
A fear many business owners have is running out of a popular product, and not having the cash flow available to purchase more items. If you run out of a popular item, you could lose sales and cause your customers to turn to your competitors instead. An inventory loan can help you avoid being under-stocked, so you can always meet customers’ needs.
3. Buy in Bulk
If you operate in the wholesale industry, you understand the need to purchase inventory in bulk. Unfortunately, placing large purchase orders can be expensive. An inventory loan can make operating your business less stressful by providing you with the funds you need to ensure your shelves and warehouses are fully stocked with necessary items.
4. No Need to Cut Costs
Perhaps one of the most significant benefits of an inventory loan is that you won’t have to reduce costs from other areas of your business to purchase inventory. An inventory loan will provide you with the up-front financing you need to buy products while operating your business as usual.
5. Meet Seasonal Demands
Many businesses experience seasonal fluctuations in sales. Small business owners that operate a seasonal business can use an inventory loan to purchase products during slower times of the year. For instance, companies that sell swimsuits and pool supplies in states that experience cold winters see a decline in sales during the winter. However, to prepare for the spring and summer, the business will need to have cash available to buy inventory. Another example that most retail businesses can relate to is the influx of sales during the holiday season. An inventory loan can be used to purchase additional products in advance, so that you can meet demands when customers start their holiday shopping.
Next Steps
If you’re ready to pursue an inventory loan, answer these questions before applying. Being able to answer these questions can increase your chances of being approved for financing.
How much inventory does my business need?
Is there inventory my business needs, but can’t afford?
How much money do I need to purchase inventory?
An inventory loan could be the answer to your problems by providing you with the funds you need to expand your product lines, reorder popular inventory, buy products in bulk, meet seasonal demand, and avoid cutting other business costs. With careful planning, inventory financing could become an essential part of your business operations.
Since 2008, Fora Financial has distributed $4 billion to 55,000 businesses. Click here or call (877) 419-3568 for more information on how Fora Financial's working capital solutions can help your business thrive.
