We acknowledge that the current inventory situation is challenging. To address this issue, we’re pleased to offer our top recommendations to assist you in preparing for success in 2024. We encourage you to make the most of the following tips, tricks, tutorials, and best practices. Keep in mind that failing to take action now may result in limited access to inventory in the future.
Reminder: Booking now ensures that products will be available for you in 2024. Booking orders allow HLC to better align our inventory to meet your needs.
Our Pro Tips
Tip #1
If digging into data is your thing, your best tool for planning for next year, is your sales history from this year. How? Start by downloading the Purchase History Report. Look at your best sellers and products that flew off the shelf. Make sure you have enough supply to sustain your sales from last year and room to grow. Pay close attention to SKU selection and number of units sold.
Tip #2
Next up: The long lead-time brands. Even though the supply chain is starting to normalize, some top brands still have longer delivery times. These brands have more than 90/120 days lead-time. Which means, if you order in November, products won’t land before March at best. Prioritize booking those brands now so you can ensure you’ll have stock on hand in season.
Tip #3
Everybody likes a good deal and we’re pretty sure you do too! Make sure to take the necessary time to shop by discount level.
Tip #4
Move on to new products! Offering your customer base the latest trends is critical to your success. In an industry where customers are often well informed and eager to get their hands on the latest gears, you do not want to disappoint.
*Make sure you are already in Booking mode to view this selection
Tip #5
Prioritize the essentials! To get you started, we recommend selecting one of our top cart starter options such as repair parts, considering the bikes you sell and trends you’ve seen in your shop last year.
Tip #6
Create multiple carts! A great way to maximize the discount and terms opportunities with the Pro Planner booking program is to create multiple carts. Capitalize on the early shipping discount when you start a cart for Immediate Shipment and get your winter products discounted. Then plan ahead for next year and have your spring products ordered and waiting for you as everyone is getting back to riding. By ordering multiple carts you will maximize your margin this year and keep working towards the next partnership level.
Tip #7
Check the Partner brand Box! As you know, choosing Partner Brands over other brands is the best way to unlock the most benefits for your store. From free delivery thresholds to in-season discount or marketing support, the more partner brands you select, the better off you’ll be next year!
Tip #8
Don’t miss out on early bird and early delivery discounts:
Brand
Early Payment
Early Delivery
Bombtrack
Up to 3%, available for the first delivery window
Additional 2% discount if order ships before Nov. 30th, 2023.
Evo Bikes
Up to 3%, available for the first delivery window
Additional 8% discount if order ships before Nov. 30th, 2023.
Pro Planner
Up to 3%, available for the first delivery window
Additional 2% discount if order ships before Nov. 30th, 2023.
We The People
Up to 3%, available for the first delivery window
Additional 4% discount if order ships before Nov. 30th, 2023.
Yuba
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Additional 2% discount if order ships before Nov. 30th, 2023.
Tip #9
Got products on SBO? Make sure to download this list as well and upload it in a booking cart.
Tip #10
Become an IT wiz! One great functionality in the booking platform that most dealer don’t know is the Master Pack Number! Want to get your products shipped in the original packaging? The Master Pack number tells you how many products come in the original packaging which helps to ease the shipping and storage.
Still think you need a hand? Book an appointment with our customer experience team.