Artist alley checklist: packing, checkout and closing stock
Use this checklist with a paper tally, spreadsheet or GoodsBar. It focuses on the part of event prep that is easy to miss: making your packed stock, checkout records and remaining stock agree. Tick completed items here or print a copy for your table.
By the GoodsBar team
Check items as you prepare. Ticks stay on this page until you reload; print to keep a copy.
Before packing: decide what belongs at this event
Start with the organizer's event instructions, then make a list for this specific show.
Before leaving: rehearse an entire order
A rehearsal should use the same devices and payment setup you will bring.
At the table: make the handoff unambiguous
Set roles before the first customer arrives, especially at a shared table.
After closing: count before you pack away
Reconcile units first, then money. A stock difference and a payment difference are different problems.
Closing stock example: track units, not just orders
For a sticker variant, record all movements in the same unit. Bundle sales must include the stickers consumed inside each bundle.
| Stock movement | Units |
|---|---|
| Opening saleable stock | 40 |
| Restocked during the event | +5 |
| Sold, including bundle components | −18 |
| Given away | −3 |
| Returned in saleable condition | +1 |
| Damaged / removed from sale | −2 |
| Expected closing stock | 23 |
If you count 22, the difference is −1 unit. Check a missed gift, a bundle component or an incorrect opening count before changing the record. A refund only increases saleable stock when the physical item returns in saleable condition.