Count stock by location, record quantities and compare with the system to find differences.
Regular counts keep stock records accurate and show shrinkage early. A fixed route and two counters for high-value items improve accuracy.
Count when stock is not moving, such as before opening or after closing.
12 items. Fill it in on screen or print a copy.
A convenience store counts tobacco weekly. The count shows 12 packs fewer than the system; a recount confirms it, and a review of receiving finds a short delivery that was not recorded.
An accurate count is what ties the stock records to the balance sheet and cost of goods sold, and it is the only way to measure shrinkage. Approved adjustments with a signature also leave an audit trail showing nobody quietly changed system quantities.
| Store and date | Quick Stop Market, Louisville, Sunday 6 am |
|---|---|
| Counters | Sam and Elena, blind count |
| Item and SKU | Energy drink 16 oz, SKU 4471 |
| Unit | Each |
| Counted quantity | 58 |
| System quantity | 64 |
| Difference and review | -6; recount confirmed; receiving log checked |
Because it was a blind count, the -6 is not the result of counters rounding to the expected number, and the receiving log is checked before writing it off.
High-value items weekly, everything else monthly or quarterly.
Two people for high-value items.
Stock lost to theft, damage or errors.
Blind counts are more accurate.
In a blind count the counter’s sheet has no system quantity on it, so they write what they find instead of confirming an expected number. The system figure is added afterward to work out the difference. It gives more honest numbers, especially on items prone to theft.
Set a threshold by value, such as any variance over 2 units or $25, and use a tighter one for high-theft items like tobacco or energy drinks. Print it on the sheet header. A recount before adjusting keeps a miscount from being booked as shrink.
More for the same job
Once the inventory count sheet is in place, the next question is usually about shifts and hours. Book a demo to see how EZTime handles scheduling and time tracking.