Overriding Inventory Forecasting Template with Unit Sales Input

The Inventory Forecasting Template showcased in the below video is a comprehensive tool designed to help businesses project their future sales, manage stock levels, and forecast cash flow. I had a custom question about overriding expected future unit sales by SKU and the response is in the video.

Customer Question: Can I incorporate my time series forecasted sales into this model rather than just a % growth?

Response: Yes, you can input your own forecasted sales and override the growth %'s.

1. Overview and Key Features

  • Growth Assumptions & Historical Analysis
    The template lets you incorporate growth rate assumptions over time and analyze historical sales data to refine forecasts. This combination helps in planning future inventory needs based on trends and past performance.

  • Sales Tracking & Custom Forecasts (primary question from customer)
    Users can input their own sales forecast data for up to 19 SKUs (expandable), allowing for a fully customized view of projected demand without compromising any of the model’s automated calculations.

  • Minimum Inventory & Ordering Logic
    The template calculates optimal ordering times by monitoring inventory depletion rates. It also factors in minimum order quantities to avoid stockouts and determine when to reorder more products.

  • Payment Terms & Cash Flow Projections
    With the ability to incorporate payment terms, the model automatically updates key financial statements—like accounts payable—providing you with a clearer picture of your cash flow over the next six years.

2. Monthly Summaries and Financial Reporting

  • Cost of Goods Sold & Inventory Purchases
    The model keeps track of how your cost of goods sold (COGS) aligns with your sales, providing insights into profitability. It also monitors inventory purchases so you know exactly how much you’re spending to restock.

  • Accounts Payable Balance
    As you input sales and payment terms, the model updates your accounts payable balance to ensure you’re always aware of upcoming financial obligations.

  • Cash Flow Integration
    Designed to integrate seamlessly with full three-statement financial models, the template helps forecast cash inflows and outflows, giving businesses a forward-looking perspective on liquidity.

3. Pricing and Additional Consulting

If your business requires further customization or a more tailored approach, I offer consulting services at $275/hour. This can be particularly useful if you need advanced modeling beyond the template’s core functionalities.

4. Who Can Benefit
  1. Small to Mid-Sized Businesses looking to plan for new or growing product lines.
  2. E-commerce Retailers needing real-time visibility into inventory levels and reorder points.
  3. Startup Founders seeking a detailed yet user-friendly way to track cash flow and expand effectively.
  4. Consultants and Financial Analysts handling multiple clients or product lines requiring in-depth forecasting.

In Summary, this Inventory Forecasting Template is a robust solution for managing inventory and financial projections. By allowing custom sales forecasts, integrating payment terms, and providing long-term visibility into cash flow, the model equips businesses with the insights needed to avoid costly stockouts, plan for growth, and maintain healthy financials.