Choose products you can describe precisely
A neighborhood hardware shop in Latin America may handle quick purchases and technical questions in the same conversation. Start your online selection with items already sold in a defined format: hammers, measuring tapes, brushes or packs of screws. Add orders requiring cutting, calculations or project review later. A catalog should help the customer request a specific item; a short listing does not replace advice from your staff.
Include the size and sales unit in the name
In this illustrative example, ‘1/4-inch × 2-inch screw, pack of 10’ says more than ‘Large screws’. Add material, finish and brand only after checking them. Distinguish individual pieces, packs, metres and rolls; avoid showing a full box when the price is for one piece. If two lengths have different availability, create separate listings so customers can choose without relying on a hidden note.
- Name: product type and a verified size.
- Description: pack contents and manufacturer-stated use.
- Price: amount for the stated sales unit.
- Availability: the real quantity you can prepare.
Prepare an editable catalog and check every detail
Open the MiniTiendAI hardware template or describe your shop to StoreCraft AI. Group tools, fasteners, painting and plumbing supplies according to your range. Initial products are examples: replace photos, prices and stock before publishing. Pay particular attention to AI-generated descriptions. Do not publish certifications, strength ratings, electrical compatibility or load capacity unless supported by the product documentation.
Confirm the exact item before accepting the order
When the WhatsApp message arrives, confirm size, quantity and pack format. If the customer asks for ‘a fitting like this’, request the reference or information needed to identify it. A photo may help, but does not establish compatibility. Before substituting anything, explain differences in material, size or price and obtain agreement. Keep the agreed summary so the person preparing the order knows exactly what was selected.
Distinguish local delivery from items needing a quote
Explain pickup hours and delivery conditions you can fulfil. A small tool order and bulky building materials may need different arrangements. If delivery cost depends on weight, volume or distance and the configured rate does not cover it, confirm the final charge before collecting payment. Do not describe a flat rate as an automatic quote for every item or destination.
Test the catalog as a customer
Open the published store on a phone while signed out. Find two similar sizes, add one to the cart and check whether the name, unit and price distinguish them. Change the quantity and inspect the summary when opening WhatsApp. Then review the order and its status in the dashboard. Make sure the recipient is the correct business number and pickup instructions are easy to find.
Keep the catalog aligned with daily operations
Counter sales and movements recorded in another system require reconciliation with the catalog. Assign someone to check stock and supplier changes at the start or end of the day. If you sell whole rolls and individual metres from the same roll, decide how to record both movements before listing them online. MiniTiendAI does not automatically convert sales units or connect inventory to your point of sale.