Running a lash business requires having the right lash extensions supply at all times. But when it comes to purchasing, should you go for bulk buying or stick with small orders?
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between bulk buying and small orders for lash extensions supply, helping you decide which one suits your lash business best.
Bulk buying for lash extensions supply
1. What is bulk buying?
Bulk buying means purchasing lash extensions supply in large quantities, often at a discounted price. This option is ideal for businesses looking to cut costs and maintain consistent inventory.
For bulk buying, the Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) is typically 100 to 1000+ units, depending on the supplier. The exact MOQ varies based on the supplier’s policies, product type, and pricing structure.
2. Benefits of bulk buying
- Lower costs per unit: Buying in bulk often comes with wholesale discounts, reducing the cost per unit. This is ideal for salons or lash artists with steady clientele.
- Consistent product quality: Purchasing from the same batch ensures product consistency, which is crucial for maintaining service quality.
- Less frequent reordering: With a large stock on hand, you reduce the time spent on frequent orders, allowing you to focus more on your business.
- Better profit margins: Since you pay less per unit, you can increase your profit margin when reselling or offering services.
- Access to exclusive wholesale deals: Many suppliers offer perks like discounts or extra products when you order in bulk.
Read more: Benefits of buying eyelash extensions wholesale
3. Challenges of bulk buying
- Higher upfront cost: Purchasing in bulk requires more capital, which may not be feasible for new or small businesses.
- Storage space requirements: Larger quantities require proper storage to maintain product quality, which can be a challenge for home-based or small salon businesses.
- Risk of product expiry: If you don’t use the products quickly, adhesives, removers, and other liquid-based lash extensions supply may expire before they are utilized.
Small orders for lash extensions supply
1. What are small orders?
Small orders involve purchasing lash extensions supply in limited quantities as needed. This is ideal for smaller businesses or those testing new products.
Small orders typically range from 10 to 100 units, depending on the supplier’s Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ).The exact number varies based on the supplier’s policies and the type of lash products being purchased.
2. Benefits of small orders
- Lower initial investment: You don’t need a large budget to purchase small quantities, making it easier for new businesses to manage finances.
- More product flexibility: You can test new lash styles, adhesives, and tools without committing to large volumes, reducing the risk of unsold inventory.
- Less storage space needed: Small orders fit well in limited spaces, making it easier for home-based lash artists and mobile technicians to store supplies.
- Easier inventory management: Ordering as needed prevents overstocking, reducing the chances of product waste.
3. Challenges of small orders
- Higher Cost Per Unit: Small orders typically don’t come with bulk discounts, meaning you’ll pay more per unit
- More Frequent Reordering: Small orders require regular replenishment, increasing time spent on logistics and supplier communication.
- Potential Stock Shortages: If demand suddenly increases, you might run out of stock and struggle to fulfill customer needs.
- Inconsistent Product Quality: Ordering from different batches might result in slight variations in product quality.
- Frequent Ordering and Shipping Costs: Constantly placing orders means higher shipping fees and the risk of delays affecting your lash appointments.
Key considerations for your lash business
Deciding whether to buy lash extensions supply in bulk or place smaller orders? It all depends on your business needs! Let’s break down the key factors to help you make the best choice.
1. Business size & Demand
The size of your lash business and how busy you are will play a huge role in your decision. If you run a high-volume salon with a steady stream of clients, bulk buying makes sense. You’ll always have enough stock on hand, and you won’t have to worry about running out of essentials during peak times.
On the other hand, if you’re a home-based lash artist, or own a smaller salon with fluctuating client numbers, smaller orders might be the way to go. This lets you stay flexible and avoid overstocking products you might not use in time.
2. Budget & Cash flow
Money matters! Buying in bulk usually means a lower cost per unit, which can save you money in the long run. But, it also requires a big upfront investment, which may not be ideal if you’re just launching your business or trying to manage cash flow.
If you prefer to keep your finances flexible, smaller orders let you spread out expenses and only buy what you need. While the cost per product may be slightly higher, you’ll have better control over your spending.
3. Storage & Expiry management
Lash extensions supply, especially adhesives and liquids, don’t last forever. If you buy in bulk, you need to have proper storage space to keep everything in good condition. Otherwise, you risk wasting products that expire before you can use them.
If you have limited storage or worry about products expiring before you can use them, ordering in smaller batches can help keep your stock fresh. On the other hand, if you have a dedicated storage space and use high volumes of products regularly, bulk buying can be a smart move—just make sure everything is stored correctly to prevent waste!
4. Product testing & Quality control
If you love trying out new lash brands or formulations, buying in small quantities is the way to go. It lets you experiment with different options before committing to a large order. But if you’ve already found your go-to supplier and trust their quality, bulk buying ensures consistency in every set you create. No surprises, no variations—just the same amazing results every time.
5. Supplier reliability
Working with a reliable supplier is key to keeping your business running smoothly. If you already have a trusted supplier with consistent stock and fast shipping, bulk buying can be a great way to save money and time. However, if you’re trying a new supplier, it’s always best to start with small orders. This allows you to test their product quality and customer service before making a bigger commitment. Better safe than sorry!
Click here to know how to choose the right lash supplier for your lash business.
Bulk buying vs. Small orders: Which is right for you?
Choose bulk buying if:
- You have a well-established lash business with high client volume.
- You want to save money by purchasing in larger quantities.
- You have adequate storage space to maintain product quality.
- You prefer to order less frequently and focus on running your business.
Choose small orders if:
- You’re a new business testing different products.
- You have limited storage space.
- You want to manage cash flow carefully and avoid large upfront costs.
- You need to stay flexible and adjust inventory based on trends.
Smart inventory management tips
No matter if you prefer bulk buying or ordering in smaller quantities, managing your stock effectively is key to running a smooth and successful lash business. Here are some essential tips to help you make informed purchasing decisions and keep your inventory under control.
1. Track inventory regularly
Keeping an eye on your stock levels is crucial, whether you buy in bulk or order smaller quantities. Running out of essential products can cause service delays, while overstocking can lead to waste.
To stay on top of your inventory, set up a simple tracking system. This could be as basic as a spreadsheet or as advanced as an inventory management software. Regularly check your stock and reorder before you run too low, but avoid overbuying products that might not get used in time. A well-organized inventory helps prevent last-minute panic and keeps your lash business running smoothly.
2. Analyze business growth
Understanding your business’s growth pattern can help you decide whether to stock up in bulk or stick with smaller, more frequent orders.
Take time to review your appointment schedule and sales data regularly. If you notice a steady increase in customers, it might be time to buy more products at once to save money and ensure you always have enough lash extensions supply. However, if your client base varies, adjusting your stock based on weekly or monthly demand can prevent excess inventory from sitting unused.
3. Choose reliable suppliers
Your supplier plays a big role in your business’s success. A trustworthy supplier ensures that you receive high-quality lash extensions supply, on-time deliveries, and good customer support. This is especially important if you are buying in bulk, as receiving a poor-quality batch can be a costly mistake.
Before committing to a supplier, take the time to research their reputation. Read reviews, ask for product samples, and start with small orders to test their reliability. If you find a supplier you trust, building a long-term partnership can be beneficial—you may even get discounts or priority service for repeat bulk orders.
4. Use mixed strategy
Who says you have to choose just one approach? Many successful lash businesses use a combination of bulk buying and small orders to get the best of both worlds. For products that you use every day—like lash extensions, glue, and remover—it makes sense to buy in bulk to save money and avoid frequent reordering. However, for items that are seasonal, trending, or experimental, it’s best to order in smaller quantities until you see how well they sell.
Making the right choice for your business
Both bulk buying and small orders have their advantages. The best approach depends on your lash business’s size, client demand, and budget. At CharmLash, we support all types of lash businesses for different lash extensions supply needs. Explore our premium lash extensions supply today and choose the best option for your business!
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