Jumping into liquidation sounds simple, right? Buy discounted goods, sell them for a profit. But anyone who’s been in the trenches knows it’s a wild ride. Our State of the Industry Report asked liquidators what they wish they’d known before starting. Here’s the short version:

Sourcing the Best Products
Not all pallets or bins are worth your time. Knowing where to find fast-selling, high-demand items makes or breaks your business. Tip: build relationships, track trends, and test small before going all in.

Expect the Ups and Downs
Liquidation isn’t a straight line. Some months are gold, others are slow. Keep a cash cushion, track trends, and don’t freak out when sales dip. Volatility is part of the game.

Watch 3rd Party Marketplace Rules
Amazon, eBay, and other platforms have rules that change constantly. Limits, compliance requirements, and restricted categories can trip you up. Stay informed and keep documentation handy.

Spotting Scams and Dishonesty
Yep, there are bad actors. Always check references, verify inventory, use secure payment methods, and trust your gut. Over time, you’ll learn who’s reliable—and who isn’t.

Managing Growth
Rapid growth feels amazing until your processes can’t keep up. Document your operations, plan for bigger orders, and scale carefully. Growth should feel steady, not chaotic.

Tracking Inventory and Logistics Costs
Buying inventory is just the start. Shipping, storage, and handling can eat profits fast. Track all costs, negotiate freight, and know which products give the best margin.

Finding Dependable Suppliers
A flaky supplier can ruin your month. Vet new sources, test small, and diversify. Reliable partners save time, stress, and money.

Running a liquidation business is rewarding but full of surprises. Learning from others’ experiences can save you time and money. For the full story on industry trends and insights from liquidators, check out the State of the Industry Report.