On fast-moving fit-out projects, correctly managing stock control is vital. As a supplier, we see the same challenges time and again on busy sites, from materials arriving too early or too late to consumables running out unexpectedly and valuable time lost looking for products that should be on site.
For dryliners and shopfitters, tight stock management isn’t about putting an unnecessary task on your to-do list, it’s about keeping projects flowing seamlessly and avoiding costly delays.
One of the most common issues we see is dryliners and shopfitters overordering “just in case”. While it’s understandable during high pressure jobs, excess stock often creates more problems than it solves. Pallets of timber or boxes of fixings can block access routes, get damaged, or end up stored so far from the work area that productivity is negatively impacted.
A better approach is phased ordering. Break the job down into clear stages and order the materials you need for each phase. This keeps the site more organised while ensuring the right materials are accessible and easier to track.
The opposite problem is underestimating how much is needed for a project. Items like screws, tapes, beads, sealants, and abrasives are easy to overlook but essential when needed. From a supplier’s perspective, emergency calls for small items are often what cause the biggest delays.
Build a realistic buffer into your ordering, and track usage rates over previous jobs and review them weekly. Monitor product levels so shortages are spotted early, not when work has had to stop.
Poor storage flow is another frequent pitfall for dryliners and shopfitters when it comes to managing stock. When materials are delivered without a clear plan, they often get moved multiple times, increasing the risk of damage and loss. We regularly hear about products being buried behind unrelated stock or stored nowhere near the area they’re needed.
Plan drop locations before deliveries arrive. Agree on clearly labelled zones for boards, metal, fixings, and finishes. Where possible, store materials close to their point of use to reduce unnecessary handling and wasted time.
Stock control doesn’t need to be complex, and simple systems often work best on busy sites. A basic delivery log checked against purchase orders helps catch missing or incorrect items early, while visual stock checks at the start and end of the day quickly highlight shortages or overstock. Colour-coding pallets or using clear signage can also help people to identify what’s for immediate use or for later phases.
Many stock issues come down to communication gaps. Installers, site managers and suppliers can work from slightly different assumptions, so regular, short check-ins make a big difference. Let your supplier know about any workflow changes early so deliveries can be adjusted.
From our experience, the most efficient sites are those where one person is responsible for coordinating stock and liaising with suppliers. Clear ownership reduces errors and keeps everyone aligned.
Effective stock management keeps fit-out crews productive and focused on the job in hand. By avoiding overordering, planning consumables properly, organising storage flow, and improving communication, dryliners and shopfitters can reduce downtime and ensure the right materials arrive exactly when they’re needed.
At WF Supplies, we have everything you need for your fit-out project and offer convenient next day delivery directly to where it’s needed. To find out more, take a look at our extensive product range or sign up for an account today.