BaseTao: How to Manage Multiple Hauls with the BaseTao Spreadsheet
For frequent shoppers using China-based shopping agents, managing multiple shipments across different months can quickly become overwhelming. The BaseTao spreadsheet feature provides a powerful solution to organize your hauls with precision and clarity.
Why Use the BaseTao Spreadsheet?
The spreadsheet transforms chaotic shopping data into structured information, offering several key advantages:
- Complete Overview:
- Shipment Tracking:
- Budget Management:
- Time Efficiency:
- Shipment Tracking:
Setting Up Your Spreadsheet
Essential Columns to Include
Create a comprehensive tracking system with these recommended columns:
| Column | Purpose | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Date | When you ordered the item | 2023-10-15 |
| Store Name | Taobao/Tmall store source | StoreXYZ |
| Product Description | Detailed item information | Men's Winter Jacket, Size L |
| Price (CNY) | Item cost in Chinese Yuan | 258.00 |
| Shipping Status | Current shipping phase | Arrived at Warehouse |
| Haul Number | Shipment batch identifier | Haul #3 |
| Month Category | Monthly organization | October 2023 |
Effective Categorization Strategies
By Month
Organize your purchases using monthly tabs or columns to track spending patterns and seasonal shopping habits. This helps you identify which months you tend to shop more heavily and plan your budget accordingly.
By Store
Group items from the same store together to identify your favorite retailers and potentially consolidate shipping from repeat vendors.
By Haul/Shipment
Assign each item to a specific haul number. This allows you to track the progress of entire shipments rather than individual items, making international shipping management significantly easier.
Pro Tips for Power Users
Color Coding System
Implement a color-coded system for quick visual reference:
- Red: Items awaiting purchase
- Teal: Items arrived at warehouse
- Blue: Items in transit to you
- Green: Delivered items
Formula Integration
Use simple formulas to automate calculations:
- Total spent per month
- Average cost per item
- Shipping cost per haul
- Weight calculations for shipping estimates
Regular Maintenance
Set aside time each week to update your spreadsheet. Consistent maintenance ensures accurate data and prevents backlog accumulation that can make the task overwhelming.
Streamline Your Shopping Experience
The BaseTao spreadsheet method transforms chaotic international shopping into an organized, manageable process. By implementing clear categorization across products, stores, and monthly shipments, frequent shoppers can save time, reduce errors, and gain better control over their purchasing habits. Start with a basic structure and gradually refine your system as you discover what tracking methods work best for your specific shopping patterns.