Practical guide

Make your next count easier to explain.

Choose a clear boundary

Pick a shelf, room or group of items. Define whether damaged goods, reserved stock and returns are included. Count each location once.

Record the cut-off

Note when the count starts. Pause movements if practical, or record receipts, sales and transfers made while counting. Compare figures from the same point in time.

Count before comparing

Give the counter an item list without expected quantities. This helps keep the recorded number based on the shelf rather than the screen. Do not treat a blank field as zero.

Recount the differences

A positive difference means more counted than expected. A negative difference means fewer. Check other shelves, recent movements and unit sizes before deciding why.

Keep an explanation

Write what was checked and who reviewed the discrepancy. Only update your main inventory records after review. This tool never makes that adjustment for you.

Background: Shopify's inventory-count planning guidance. Our checklist is independently written.