How do I verify the number of active stops on a water cooler delivery route?

A route list can look impressive while hiding stops that have gone quiet. Ask for the full list with the address, the equipment placed there, the delivery frequency and the last delivery date. Then match it against invoices and bank deposits. A stop that appears on the list but not in the payments needs an explanation.

Ride along with the driver for at least one full route. Notice whether customers greet the driver, whether the bottles are collected and replaced in a rhythm, and whether any stops are skipped. A day on the truck tells you things a spreadsheet will not. Ask about stops that pause for seasons, such as offices closed in summer, and about accounts that pay late or dispute charges. Ask how cancellations are recorded and whether a customer can drop off the list without anyone noticing.

Build the stop count into your purchase agreement as a condition, so that if the active number turns out lower than described, there is a clear path to adjust or step away. Your lawyer can draft that language.

Key takeaways

• Match the stop list against invoices and deposits rather than trusting a count.
• Ride the route and listen to what customers say to the driver.
• Ask your lawyer to tie the stop count to the purchase agreement.
• Write the verified stop count and the method used to confirm it into the agreement, so a shortfall has a clear remedy.