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Understanding Business

A Business Can Lose Money on a Sale Even When the Customer Pays

Getting paid doesn't automatically mean a sale was profitable — if the total cost of supplying a product or service, including transport, labour, packaging, payment fees, taxes and overheads, is higher than what was charged, the business loses money on that transaction.

Some entrepreneurs focus on revenue instead of gross margin and net profit. A business can have thousands of customers and still struggle if it prices its products incorrectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is gross profit?

Generally, revenue minus the direct costs associated with producing or purchasing what was sold.

What is a profit margin?

It expresses profit as a proportion of revenue.

Why should transport be included in pricing?

Because if the business pays for delivery, that cost directly affects the actual profitability of the sale.

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