Job lots: 85,798 pairs of shoe overstocks

These job lots were shoe overstocks: 85,798 pairs, packed in four 40HQ full container loads and sitting in Singapore. They had been made for the Brazilian market, for schools, and the order was cancelled. We offered them to our buyers ex-Singapore, as a full lot or a partial lot.

How do overstocks like this happen?

A cancelled order. A manufacturer makes to a large contract, the buyer pulls out, and the stock is already made, packed and shipped part of the way. It's one of the most common reasons good stock ends up as job lots.

What made these shoes sellable?

• Practical product. The shoes had good grip, suited sport and looked quite fashionable.
• Volume. Four full containers suit buyers who need depth.
• Ready to ship. Already containerised, with clear terms for a full or partial lot.

What made them harder to sell?

• Someone else's logo. The shoes carried the Brazilian flag and "PREFEITURA DE SAO PAULO". That rules out some buyers.
• Unbranded. No brand name to help the end sale.
• Location. Stock sitting in a third country needs a buyer happy to deal internationally.

We're open with buyers about details like these. A logo that suits nobody in one market can be irrelevant in another.

Who buys job lots of shoes?

Overseas buyers, wholesalers, discount chains, market traders and charities. Volume buyers in developing markets are often the best fit for container loads. We structure each offer to suit the buyer. See the clothing and footwear we buy.

What should you do with a cancelled order?

Don't let it sit. Storage and container costs add up. Send us:

1. A stock list spreadsheet: style, size breakdown, quantity, and cost if you're happy to share.
2. Photos of the product, logos and cartons.
3. Where the stock is and how it's packed.

John discreetly surveys the market. In most cases he makes an offer for all of it. If he can't, he gives his best advice on how to sell it.

Read our guides to overstocks and who buys excess stock, or contact us now.