Buying hygiene supplies in bulk: a practical checklist
Buying in bulk saves money only when you buy the right specification, in the right quantity, with documents that prove what you received. Agree the specification in writing, estimate quantities from people and uses, ask for batch documents, and plan storage before the delivery arrives.
Last reviewed by the SANITIZER.PK team
Quick answer
- Write down the specification: alcohol type and %, size, glove material and size mix, mask type and standard.
- Estimate quantities from people x uses per day x working days.
- Ask for the batch test result and check batch numbers on delivery.
- Plan cool storage and a refill routine before ordering.
The checklist
- Specification agreed in writing for every item.
- Quantities based on headcount and use, with 10% spare.
- Sample of each item checked before the main order if quantities are large.
- Batch test documents requested for sanitizer and matched to the delivered batch numbers.
- Expiry dates checked: long enough to use the stock before it expires.
- Storage ready: cool, shaded, ventilated, away from heat and sparks.
- Dispensers counted and placed before refills arrive.
- A named person responsible for refilling and reordering.
- Delivery address, contact person and access time confirmed.
- Price, delivery charge and payment terms in writing.
Estimating quantities
| Item | Rule of thumb | Example: 30 staff, 22 days |
|---|---|---|
| Hand sanitizer | 2.5 ml per use x uses per person per day | 6 uses: about 10 litres a month |
| Face masks | 1 per person per day when masks are in use | about 660 masks |
| Disposable gloves | Pairs per task x tasks; box of 100 = 50 pairs | Depends on tasks; kitchens and clinics use most |
| Dispensers | Entrances + reception + one per floor + meeting rooms | Often 4 to 8 for a small office |
Documents worth asking for
- Product specification sheet.
- Test result for the sanitizer batch you will receive, showing the batch number.
- For masks and gloves: the standard named on the box and the lot number.
- A delivery note listing items, quantities and batch numbers.
Mistakes that cost money
- Ordering a year of sanitizer and storing it in a hot room.
- Buying gel for dispensers made for liquid.
- Ordering one glove size for everyone.
- Choosing the cheapest sanitizer without checking the alcohol percentage.
Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should we order?
Order a month or two of use at a time, with a reorder point when about two weeks of stock remain. Large stockpiles take space and age in the heat.
Can you deliver to several branches?
Tell us the addresses and cities. Same-day delivery is available in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad; we confirm delivery for other locations case by case.
Can a company get an invoice?
Tell us the company name and billing details in your order and we confirm in our reply what invoice and payment arrangements we can provide.
Related pages
Need supplies today?
Tell us what you need and where. We confirm stock, price and delivery time before anything is sent. Same-day delivery is available in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad.