So you're thinking of buying consignment software.....

You've probably already realized that consignment software can help you save money by automating many of the routine (and time consuming) functions in your store. These would include manually updating accounts, printing checks, printing tags, consignor statements, contracts, etc.

You're next step, somewhat obviously, is to sort through the several different software packages on the market, ask the right questions, and make an informed decision regarding your consignment software purchase.

To help you out, we've put together this list of questions which can help you ask the "right" questions of prospective software "vendors".

Top 10 Questions

1. How long have you been selling this program?
   
   Many consignment software companies have gone out of business in the last 5 years. This leaves their customers stranded without support. We have been selling ConsignPro since 1996 and this is our only business. Since it is difficult (and expensive) to switch software programs if your company disappears, select a company with a good track record and proven history.
   
   
2. Features, features, features!
   
   Find out what features your getting for your money. Typical features include: automatic markdowns, wish list, layaway, smart pricing (the system prices your inventory!), customizable inventory lists, printing of checks, consignor contracts, QuickBooks interface, and support for several sizes of BOTH tags and labels (stickers). For a complete features comparison between ConsignPro and the others, click Compare!
   
   
3. How much does support cost?
   
   Many people are quick to overlook this cost but its a real cost you'll incur if you have questions or problems. We charge $125 per YEAR for tech support and version updates ($150 / year for networked users). Some of our competitors charge up to $100 per HOUR!
   
   
4. How much and how frequent are version updates?
   
   Version updates keep your software investment current which is extremely important. Updates often fix bugs in previous versions or add new features that improve the program. We offer free updates for members of our Annual Maintenance Plan. In addition, last year we updated our software 6 times - more than any other competitor.
   
   
5. Where do I get my tags?
   
   Many vendors "tie" your tag purchase to version updates. If you buy tags from them, updates are "free". We all know nothing in life is free, they double the price you'd normally pay for tags. We send you to our wholesale tag vendor for the lowest possible prices on a variety of colors and sizes of tags. Visit our tags page for more information on both tags and labels.
   
   
6. Can I have a list of references in my area?
   
   Some companies actually pay their customers for good referrals.  We consider ALL of our customers references and will gladly provide a reference in your neighborhood whenever possible. Search our online database for customers in your area right now!
   
   
7. How much does your "home copy" cost?
   
   We provide a registered home copy for FREE, many others charge you FULL price for the ability to work at home!
   
   
8. How much are additional copies (network licenses)?
   
   While you might only be thinking about a single workstation in your store, if you grow there may come a time when you'd like to network more than one computer in your store and have multiple workstations. Also make sure their software CAN be networked - some packages can not be. ConsignPro can be networked and we discount our second (and each additional) copy of ConsignPro.
   
   
9. What OTHER costs are there?
   
   Some vendors have special database license charges you'll incur for either a single workstation or networked setup, ask about these up front or be surprised later.  Our complete pricing list is always readily available, just click here.
   
   
10. Are you a member of the National Association of Resale and Thrift Stores?
    
    While this might not seem to be an important question, a membership in the industry trade association demonstrates a commitment to consignment and resale topics and issues. We are a proud NARTS member and have been since 1997. Our founder is also a monthly columnist in the NARTS newsletter.  Click here to read his most recent articles!