When you are planning an event to raise money, there are a few things you should know. First, it is best to choose an item that will be an easy sale. It is best to select from top fundraising companies that will ensure your success. Most organizations receive advertisements and mailers from various companies. Start your search by contacting these folks to see what they have to offer.
Partner with the company willing to help your organization make the most of their sales. List the companies you have gathered information on. Begin questioning sales reps and keep a log of answers you receive. This log will help you compare the suppliers and then narrow down the list.
There are some important questions to ask of all the providers you are considering. To begin, ask each company what the amount of their product is typically sold per seller. In addition, you will want to know the average amount is spent per buyer. You are looking for the highest average.
You will also need to know how many other groups or schools are selling the product in your area currently. Many companies offer a variety of item brochures. This provides a better chance of selling a different item than another area school or group. It is important that you are not competing to ensure the best possible earnings.
Make sure you know up front what the percentage of sales will be for your school or group. Ask when payment is due. Some companies want the payment when the products are ordered. This means that sellers should collect payment when customers place their order. You will want to know if orders are packed by hand and scanned for order accuracy. This information helps with scheduling time for checking orders.
You will also want to find out if you will have an additional charge for fuel surcharge or shipping fees. Get quotes for delivery costs on specific items from a number of suppliers. These quotes will make it easy for you to choose the product offering the greatest value. Identify the company that offers product samples. Samples help to encourage sales and improve your profits.
It is a good idea to see which suppliers will take late orders. It is important to ask if the profit on any late orders will be the same. If ordering is available online, find out if students will be credited on their individual sales. Also check to see what the return policy is for damaged items. Last, get a reference list.
Terry H. Fuller has spent the past 30 years helping schools and organizations with their fundraising endeavors. He now uses his experience and expertise to help groups choose the best fundraiser for them. If you would like to learn more about Fundraising Ideas he suggests you visit his friend’s for more information.