Initial Test Order Strategy: Reduce Risk When Adding New SKUs
Initial Test Order Strategy is the method of purchasing a small quantity of new products to evaluate demand, quality, and sell-through before committing to a larger wholesale order.
This strategy is essential in toy and miniature retail because demand for new items—especially trending toys, new faction kits, or terrain expansions—can be unpredictable. By placing a small test order, sellers can judge whether an item deserves a place in the Amazon stocklist or as an Amazon FBA product. Toy wholesale suppliers encourage this approach when introducing profitable toys wholesale to new retailers, reducing risk for both parties.
Example in practice:
A retailer orders 12 units of a new dice-and-token accessory pack, measures sell-through over two weeks, and then places a larger order based on performance.
Why does this matter?
Test orders:
- Protect cash flow
- Reduce overstock risk
- Provide real-world demand validation
