Build the timeline from both sides of the order
Start with the supplier deposit and remaining balance. Record when each amount actually leaves the bank, then add freight, logistics and import-related payments. Put the customer collection on its expected bank date, rather than assuming delivery and payment happen together.
For a domestic order, set irrelevant import costs to zero. For split shipments or multiple customer instalments, use separate dated events in a fuller forecast. One collection date can conceal cash that arrives in several stages.
Use cash amounts for the whole transaction
The import planner accepts AUD amounts supplied by you. It does not convert foreign currencies or calculate duties, GST or concessions. Use your supplier and logistics information to establish the assumptions, and distinguish confirmed charges from estimates.
Build the landed-cost budget line by line: goods, transport, handling and customs-related charges. Check whether storage, insurance, brokerage or other costs are already in a quote before adding them. Treat a possible later refund as a separate cash event, not an automatic reduction in today's payment.
Identify the payment that creates the largest gap
Subtract each dated payment from available opening cash and add collections when they arrive. Compare each balance with your chosen minimum reserve. The deepest balance usually matters more for immediate planning than the final order surplus.
The model groups receipts and payments on the same date. It does not establish that a morning payment can use a receipt clearing that afternoon. Check the actual sequence when a same-day collection is essential.
Test a change before relying on it
Move the customer collection later and check how long the shortfall remains. Separately test a changed supplier schedule, a partial customer deposit or higher logistics costs. Keep each assumption identifiable so an improvement can be traced to an agreed change.
If finance is being considered, compare when funds would become available with the supplier deadlines. Add the quoted fees and repayments to the business forecast. A modelled cash gap does not establish a lender’s advance amount or approval.
What to prepare
- Confirm the deposit and balance deadlines.
- List freight and other landed cash costs.
- Document AUD conversion assumptions where needed.
- Check the evidence for customer collection timing.
- Extend the horizon through the final collection.
Common questions
What if the customer pays after the forecast end date?
The planner reports that amount as deferred cash. It remains visible but does not improve the balance inside the shorter forecast.
Does a positive order surplus mean the order is affordable?
No. Costs can fall due before collections. Also consider the other payroll, supplier and debt commitments sharing the same business cash.
General information only. Product terms and availability vary. Check the actual proposal and obtain advice appropriate to your circumstances.