Reorder Point

Term from Ecommerce industry explained for recruiters

A Reorder Point is a basic but important concept in managing online store inventory. It's the minimum amount of a product that should be in stock before ordering more. Think of it like a fuel gauge in a car - when it hits a certain level, you know it's time to refill. People working with this concept help businesses avoid running out of stock while also preventing excess inventory that ties up money. This is especially important in online stores where customers expect quick delivery and might shop elsewhere if items are out of stock.

Examples in Resumes

Implemented Reorder Point system that reduced stockouts by 40%

Managed inventory using ROP (Reorder Point) calculations for 500+ SKUs

Optimized Reorder Point levels across multiple warehouses

Developed automated Reorder Point alerts using Excel and inventory data

Typical job title: "Inventory Managers"

Also try searching for:

Inventory Specialist Supply Chain Analyst Ecommerce Operations Manager Inventory Control Manager Supply Chain Coordinator Procurement Specialist Stock Controller

Where to Find Inventory Managers

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you determine the optimal reorder point for a business with seasonal demand?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they consider factors like seasonal peaks, supplier lead times, and safety stock levels. They should mention using historical data and forecasting methods to adjust reorder points throughout the year.

Q: How do you balance inventory holding costs with stockout risks when setting reorder points?

Expected Answer: Should discuss evaluating storage costs against lost sales potential, customer satisfaction impacts, and using data to find the sweet spot between overstocking and understocking.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when setting a reorder point?

Expected Answer: Should mention lead time from suppliers, average daily sales, safety stock requirements, and any minimum order quantities from suppliers.

Q: How do you handle reorder points for multiple warehouse locations?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they consider different delivery times, local demand patterns, and transfer options between locations when setting location-specific reorder points.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a reorder point and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's the inventory level that triggers a new order and helps prevent stockouts while maintaining efficient inventory levels.

Q: How do you calculate a basic reorder point?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the simple formula: Daily Usage × Lead Time + Safety Stock = Reorder Point.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic inventory tracking
  • Understanding of lead times
  • Simple reorder point calculations
  • Use of inventory management software

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced inventory analysis
  • Multiple location management
  • Supplier relationship management
  • Demand forecasting

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic inventory optimization
  • Multi-channel inventory planning
  • Team leadership and training
  • Supply chain system implementation

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of basic inventory management principles
  • Cannot explain the relationship between lead time and reorder points
  • No experience with inventory tracking systems
  • Lack of analytical skills or data interpretation ability