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SELLING GUIDE

How to prepare your excess inventory for sale

A practical guide from the MRT closeout notebook.

Stock photograph of a handheld scanner reading a packaged food jar label
Stock photography

A clear inventory list gives a prospective buyer the information needed to assess a lot. Good preparation can reduce follow-up questions and make the first conversation more productive.

Create one accurate merchandise list

Put each distinct SKU on its own row. Use consistent quantity units, and distinguish individual units from master cases. If the inventory contains mixed assortments, explain the breakdown rather than treating the lot as a single unidentified quantity.

  • SKU, UPC, brand and a plain-language description
  • Available units, case quantities and units per case
  • Retail and master-carton packaging condition
  • Lot numbers and dates where relevant
  • Inventory location and target movement date

Photograph the actual goods

Take clear photos of the retail package, labels, seals and outer cartons. Include any damage or variations. Stock photography can illustrate a category, but buyers need current photographs to evaluate the specific merchandise being offered.

Explain what changed

Overstock, a packaging update, a discontinued line and seasonal surplus can create different selling situations. State the reason the goods are available and any deadline or distribution limitations.

Be ready to discuss logistics

Identify the warehouse location, loading access and whether the goods are palletized. Provide pallet counts or dimensions when available. MRT can use those details when discussing pricing and next steps.

Put the next step in motion.

Explore merchandise or send MRT the inventory you’re ready to sell.

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