Whether you are running a new start-up or a medium-sized company, chances are you are spending quite a bit of money on office supplies and are searching for ways to save money. While we understand that office supplies can snowball if left unchecked, drastic cost-cutting measures should never be your first course of action. From inventory monitoring to buying in bulk, there are some easy and practical ways to reduce office supply expenses.

In this article, we share with you six simple tips to get your office supplies budget in check while ensuring your office functions smoothly.

Closely track your inventory

Jumping into purchasing, whether online or offline, without planning is not the right way to go about stocking your office. Like any other purchase, the purchase of office supplies needs to be planned too. Keep track of your office supply inventory and furniture and make a list of what you need to buy. Make an action plan before you set out to purchase and check what you will need urgently (smaller office supplies like notebooks, pens and so on) and what things can wait (more significant purchases like office desks and office chairs). This way, you will be able to set up recurring schedules, buy on a wholesale basis or buy in bulk to reduce your office supplies cost.

Shop online and from one place

Shopping online allows you to compare prices, check out specifications and get the best deal for your business with the click of a mouse. Look for office supplies business and visit their website to see what discounts they offer. To help reduce your office supplies expenses, buy all your supplies from one online store. Not only will you get a lower price, but purchasing from a single supplier will mean you qualify for free shipping, thus giving you massive savings. 

Buy in bulk

If you’re wondering how to reduce office supply expenses in one quick step, it is by buying in bulk. Based on the type and size of your business, you will need some office products like paper and packaging supplies in larger quantities. Instead of buying these weekly, save time and money by buying in bulk. While this will need a little more planning and forecasting abilities, the effect on your bottom line will be significant. You will save more time replenishing your stock and be eligible for better discounts. However, it is not advised that you buy a large quantity of everything. Only buy in bulk items that you will use frequently, not supplies that you are meant to use sparingly.  

Choose generic brands

If your business is not particular about brand names, this tip can be a massive opportunity for savings. Consider choosing generic or off-brands instead of name-brand supplies. Many of these suppliers provide the same level of quality as their branded counterparts but at a lower price. Buying generic is a smart option when you’re in the market for smaller items like office consumables. For example, if you are using your printer only for internal use, opting for generic ink cartridges for inkjet and laser printers can often cost you half as much with negligible differences in print quality. However, as a general rule, avoid purchasing generic versions of office furniture and machines. The generic options of these might be cheaper, but branded ones could come with better warranties and quality. 

Open a corporate account

Opening a corporate account for your business with a reliable supplier or retailer not only builds relationships but also helps you track what supplies you use the most. This way, you can use this information to think of ways to decrease your use and expenses. These accounts usually include an online service where you can order items and control who makes purchases on behalf of your company. Opening a corporate account can also give you better prices, purchasing efficiency, and hassle-free experience. 

When you open an account with us, you say money and time. We also offer you our 30 day-credit terms so that you can buy now and pay later. Open an account here! 

Don’t wait until you run out of supplies

Contrary to popular belief, the best way to spend a bundle is not to wait till you run out of it. Waiting till you run out of supplies will only necessitate an immediate run to the store. Running to get something in urgency isn’t just stressful, it usually increases the chances of you buying things for a higher price. It also increases the likelihood of impulse buying. Suppose you find yourself running low on supplies. In that case, there are two intelligent options: reduce the amount you’re using until you can restock essentials or plan out an emergency resupply before you run out.  

Looking to save money and time while buying office supplies? We are Ireland’s leading office suppliers with over 40 years of experience in the industry. Shop your office essentials at Codex by opening an account with us. Each new account will receive a dedicated Account Manager who can discuss your requirements and will ensure your account operates smoothly. 

Learn more here!

Organise office supplies at work with our vast range of office storage items!