Feel like you’re forgetting something? We’ve got you covered with our Preparing for Peak checklist

Peak season may look like it’s all about the sales, but if your operations can’t keep up, the gains can quickly slip away. From lost revenue due to stockouts and mismanaged returns to frustrated customers waiting on delayed orders, the costs of being unprepared can stack up fast.Peak season is here, and if you’re anything like most retailers, your to-do list is as long as Santa’s nice-and-naughty list. Between managing inventory, coordinating shipping, prepping marketing campaigns, and ensuring smooth customer service, it’s easy to feel like there’s something you might have missed. That’s why we created the Preparing for Peak Checklist - your essential guide to keep things running smoothly.

This is more than just a tick box exercise. It’s your roadmap to peak season success, crafted from years of experience helping retailers navigate the chaos and maximise their potential. But before you download it, let’s look at why having a plan matters and what you could gain with the right checklist on hand.

Why preparation is everything (and we mean everything)

Peak season may look like it’s all about the sales, but if your operations can’t keep up, the gains can quickly slip away. From lost revenue due to stockouts and mismanaged returns to frustrated customers waiting on delayed orders, the costs of being unprepared can stack up fast.

In fact, UK studies show that during peak periods, nearly all retailers experience some form of revenue loss due to operational hiccups - whether it’s from unsold stock or rising overheads. A study by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) found that 74% of UK retailers experienced revenue loss due to operational issues during peak periods. These issues include inventory mismanagement, delayed deliveries, and inadequate staffing, all of which can lead to customer dissatisfaction and decreased sales. And with customer expectations at an all-time high, retailers are under more pressure than ever to deliver not just the goods, but the entire customer experience.

That’s where our Preparing for Peak Checklist comes in. With our guide, you’ll have all the essentials covered - so you’re ready to tackle any peak season challenge.

What’s inside? Here’s a sneak peek

Without giving too much away, here’s what you can expect from our checklist:

1. Fulfilment readiness tips: Is your inventory fully stocked and optimised? We’ll help you keep everything in check to avoid those dreaded ‘out of stock’ notices.
2. Customer service essentials: From preparing your team for high volumes to automating the FAQs, this checklist covers how to keep your customers informed, happy, and coming back.
3. Returns management reminders: Peak season means returns season, and having a smooth process can make all the difference for customer loyalty.
4. Cost-saving tactics: Boosting revenue isn’t just about more sales - it’s about keeping costs in check. We share ways to stay profitable while meeting peak demands.

These are just a few of the areas we touch on, so no matter where your business needs support, you’ll have a guide to cover your bases.

Why you need a checklist for peak season

Think of our Preparing for Peak Checklist as a personal assistant (just without the ability to bring you a brew or organise your calendar). It’s packed with insights to keep you focused, helping you anticipate and solve issues before they arise. And it’s designed for businesses of all sizes, so whether you’re a growing eCommerce brand or a retail giant, there’s something valuable in here for you.

We’ve refined every point based on real-world scenarios, from customer service roadblocks to managing an influx of last-minute orders. Our goal? To make sure you’re not just surviving peak season - you’re thriving.

Ready to cross ‘prep for peak’ off your list?

If the thought of peak season makes you feel like you’re forgetting something important, you’re not alone. This checklist is here to get you ready, as well as serving as a reminder of everything you need to succeed when demand surges.

So, don’t leave your success up to chance. Download our Preparing for Peak Checklist today, and make sure you’re ready for whatever the season brings. Let’s turn your peak season worries into well-oiled opportunities.