Short answer: Open a simple list when the set is announced, record customer, product and quantity, decide on a deposit, order from real demand plus a modest buffer and tell customers when the product arrives. Track what is left over so your next order is more accurate.
Reservations are the cheapest way to reduce the risk of a launch. They turn guesses into names and quantities before you spend. Here is a system that works with a notebook or a spreadsheet.
Why take reservations at all?
Three reasons: you order closer to real demand, customers feel looked after and you avoid the worst case of buying a large quantity nobody asked for. Reservations also feed your margins: less unsold stock means less cash tied up.
What steps make up a reservation system?
- Open the list on announcement. Do not wait for the release.
- Record the essentials. Customer name, contact, product type, quantity, edition and language.
- Decide the deposit rule. Write it on the form.
- Set a closing point. Choose the day you stop taking reservations so you can place your order with confidence.
- Order from demand plus a modest buffer. Use the history of similar sets in your own shop.
- Tell customers when it arrives. One message, same channel each time.
- Review afterwards. What sold beyond the list, what was left, what would you change?
Should you ask for a deposit?
| Option | Advantage | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| No deposit | Easy for the customer | Uncollected product |
| Deposit on selected products | Protects higher-value lines | Slightly more admin |
| Deposit on everything | Strong commitment | May discourage casual buyers |
Pick one, write it down and apply it to everyone equally. If you take payments in advance, check your local consumer and tax rules at the official source of your country; this guide is not legal or tax advice.
How do you decide how much to order?
Start from the reservations. Add a modest buffer based on how comparable sets sold in your shop. For Japanese product, which has a more specific audience, rely on confirmed requests more than on general enthusiasm. See which Japanese cards to stock.
What do you do with unreserved product?
Shelf it with clear labels, offer it first to regulars, and track the result. If it sells slowly, take that into account next time. The method is in managing sealed stock.
How do events fit with launches?
A launch weekend, a pack opening or a casual play day gives customers a reason to collect their reservation in person, and often to buy more. See running tournaments.
Where do you source the product?
For Japanese, Korean and Chinese editions, TCG Bestia supplies independent stores with a VIES-verified B2B account, intra-community invoicing and shipping across Europe. Read the wholesale page or contact us.
