Underbuying protects cash—but can cost sales, customer trust, and service levels Most operations are losing cash in one of two directions, and they usually don't know which one until the damage is done. Overbuying feels safe. You've got stock, you can ship, nobody's calling you at noon because a lane is empty. But that comfort costs real money — working capital locked in pallets you won't touch for 90 days, rack space you're paying for, product that edges toward expiry or obs