How to Stock Office Supplies

One of the most important things in an office is the supplies. Knowing when and how to stock supplies is extremely vital to the smooth running of any office. Knowing how often to order items and the proper quantity will help to keep your supply cabinet stocked at all times.

1. Make a list of the supplies used in your office. If possible, try to use a spreadsheet to create a list that allows you to enter how many you purchase and your monthly usage. You may need to monitor this for a month to get accurate results.


2. Choose a day of the month that you order supplies. Make sure that everyone clearly understands that this is the day you will order.


3. Fill out your order form if faxing, create a cart if ordering online or print off your spreadsheet if shopping in person.


4. Submit your order or shop for the supplies.


5. Store supplies in a cabinet specifically for the office supplies.


6. Organize the cabinet so that all items are clearly visible and easy to find.


7. Monitor your stock weekly and make notes about the use of items. There may be times of the year when you will go through more of one product than another. Try to keep track of these fluctuations.


8. Place a mid-month order if you notice that you’re running low and may not make it to the end of the month.

After a couple of months, your system of ordering should have your office supplies stocked properly.  It will seem like very little effort to place orders and keep supplies on hand.