How can I build a rolling 3-mo cash flow forecast amid late payments in mfg?

[BrianS]

I'm the owner of a small manufacturing business that makes custom parts, and while we're profitable on paper, I'm constantly stressed about month-to-month liquidity due to the lag between paying for materials and receiving client payments. My current cash flow forecasting is basically just an Excel spreadsheet guessing based on last year's numbers, which failed me last quarter when a major client delayed payment. For other small business owners, what tools or methods do you use for more accurate, rolling cash flow forecasts? How do you realistically factor in variables like seasonal demand shifts, potential late payments, and unexpected equipment repairs? I'm considering dedicated software but worry it will be overkill; I need a practical system that helps me anticipate shortfalls at least three months out so I can arrange financing proactively, not reactively.