3115 9:17 Q&A

Q&A: “How much inventory should I keep on hand?”

Struggling to strike the right balance between too much inventory and not enough? In this episode, we explore smart ways to manage product stock—especially when space and cash are tight.

9:17

Subscribe Now For A Free Five Step Tutorial

Get a free five-part email course that shows you how to find, validate, and launch your side hustle idea — no experience required.

Episode 3115

It’s one of the oldest dilemmas in physical product businesses: make too much and you waste money and storage space. Make too little and you miss sales.

That’s the challenge Naomi from St. Paul is dealing with. She runs a one-woman skincare brand and wants to grow—but without overcommitting to inventory she can’t afford or store.

In today’s episode, we’re looking at practical strategies for managing stock when you’re small, nimble, and not ready to operate like a big brand. How do you plan just enough, without getting stuck in the “feast or famine” cycle?

"I run a small side hustle selling handmade skincare products—mostly body scrubs and lip balms. I make everything myself, and while sales have been growing, I’m struggling with inventory. Sometimes I make too much and it sits around for weeks. Other times, I sell out faster than expected and can’t keep up with demand. Since I have limited space and a tight budget, I don’t want to overstock, but I also hate turning customers away. What’s the right amount of inventory to keep on hand when you’re still growing—and how do I find that balance?"

Listen to today's episode to learn more...

Yours in the revolution,

cg-sig-newsletter

Side Hustle book
From the Host

Side Hustle: From Idea to Income in 27 Days

The step-by-step guide behind many of the stories on this show. Find your idea, validate it, and start earning — no experience required.

See all books →

Keep in Touch

Chris Guillebeau speaking to a packed crowd

There's a new story every single day on Side Hustle School. Episodes are produced to be short and to the point — I know you're busy. Be sure you subscribe to get a weekly recap of each episode!

Email hello@chrisguillebeau.com
Say Hi From your favorite airport

To infinity and beyond,
Chris Guillebeau

🚀

5 Days to Your Next Side Hustle

Get a proven step-by-step plan delivered to your inbox

  • Day 1: Find your profitable idea (even if you think you have none)
  • Day 2: Validate your idea without spending a dime
  • Day 3: Create your minimum viable offer
  • Day 4: Get your first paying customer
  • Day 5: Scale without quitting your day job
🔒 100% Free
📧 No spam, ever
👋 Unsubscribe anytime

We respect your privacy. Your information will never be shared or sold.