Pro Tips: What inventory changes do you make seasonally?

1. Stock for comfort

"I've found you can't really put a price on comfort. If it's hot out, selling fans. If it's cold out, selling heated jackets. Whatever you're going to wear to work that day make sure you got that on the truck for these guys to buy. Am I running the A/C? Ok, I should have some small coolers for sale. Is it going to be a freezing cold day that I put two pairs of socks and a giant jacket on? Well, I should be selling some cushy socks and jackets then. As far as tools go, it takes the wrench to fix a car in 10 degrees as it does in 100 degrees, but when it comes to temperature and them being comfortable, the money doesn't matter."

-Jared Hull, Cornwell Quality Tools

2. Make yourself a one-stop shop

"This time of year, I'm super stocked up on headlights, lights, pocket knives — it's hunting season here. I try to look for stuff for Christmas time — there are certain deals for Christmas. They're not huge wholesale changes, but I try to tweak my inventory to whatever season it is. I try to make it to where my guys can do as much shopping with me as possible because it's easier for them." 

-Jay Hashagen, Cornwell Quality Tools 

3. Stock for your customers' needs

I carry a large inventory. I've got a 28-foot truck, and I keep it well stocked. I found that when you have a good inventory, it makes our job easier because the customer can come to the truck and buy what he needs, not what I think he needs."

-Danny Stratton, Mac Tools 

4. Match your inventory to the moment

"As we get into the holiday seasons, I'll have small to large gift ideas that customers can purchase for themselves or family. Hoodies, jackets, etc. Hunting seasons I try to have camo hats. Hurricane season, I try to be loaded up with lights, batteries, and battery tools like fans, and battery chainsaws."

-AJ Bowlin, Mac Tools