Planning inventory dates
When and how often you should take an inventory depends on the type of products you have in stock. It is important to identify the times of the year when stock is potentially at its lowest level so that you can select a date during that period.
At this stage, it is essential to define who will carry out the inventory, whether it is the warehouse staff or other employees who may have a fresh eye on what is in the logistics area.
If possible, schedule the inventory count after working hours so you don’t have to interrupt operations.
Have the necessary tools for stock counting
A crucial element of successful stock counting are the method to get the job done.
For example, relying on pen and paper is not only an outdated system, it can also be very inaccurate. Barcode scanners are particularly useful, especially for larger stock counting projects, as they allow you to always know where the goods are and in what quantity.
Check, divide, organize
Especially in the case of a very large warehouse, a good strategy to simplify the inventory can be to map the logistics area, identify similar product categories and assign their counting to specific operators, so that everyone has to control a limited number of products.
There may be products in the warehouse that are in a kind of “limbo”: these could include goods in transit, such as outstanding orders from suppliers or items that have been returned. Ideally, it would be advisable to process these types of goods before counting, to avoid any confusion later on. The same applies to damaged goods.
Checking the inventory carried out
After completing the inventory, it is always a good idea to check the inventory numbers a second time and take sample checks before updating stock levels and proceeding with new orders, to make sure that everything has been counted correctly.
Taking an inventory report is very useful to be able to identify any problems in the warehouse and to take targeted action in areas that need optimization.
A good warehouse organization is the basis for optimum performance in every aspect of warehouse management, including an inventory that is carried out quickly and effectively. If you want to find out how your logistics area can become more efficient, contact us now!
