How to track customers who owe you
In tailoring, part payment is normal. A customer pays half when they bring the fabric and the rest when they collect the cloth.
The problem is remembering. In busy seasons like December, Sallah or a big aso ebi order, it is easy to forget who paid what. That money is your profit.
A simple way to keep track
- Write the full price on every order. Agree on it before you start cutting.
- Record every payment the day you receive it. Cash or transfer, write the amount and the date.
- Keep the balance next to the order. Price minus everything paid. That is what they still owe.
- Look at the total every week. Add up all balances so you know how much money is still outside.
- Mention the balance when the cloth is ready. Tell them the balance in the same message that says their cloth is ready. It is polite and clear.
- Collect before handing over the cloth. Or agree on a date if they need more time, and write it down.
Tips that keep it friendly
- Send the balance in writing, not only by voice. It avoids "I thought I paid" arguments.
- Be clear and polite: "Your kaftan is ready for pickup. Balance to pay: ₦15,000. Thank you."
- For big group orders like aso ebi, track each person's order separately.
How to do it in Tailorshoppe
- Each order has a price, and you add payments as they come in. The app shows the balance for you.
- The Home screen shows the total all your customers owe you.
- When an order is ready, tap Tell [name] it is ready and choose WhatsApp or another app. The message is already written with the style and any balance still owed.
Tailorshoppe is free, needs no sign up, and keeps your records on your phone.