Cycle Count Preparation Checklist

Protect the count. Avoid bias. Align system and physical stock.

We live and die by our inventory records. If the system says stock is there when it isn't, or misses stock that is, your planning, purchasing, production and customer service decisions are immediately compromised.

Cycle counting keeps those records honest, but the count itself is only reliable if it is properly prepared. Use this checklist before counting begins to make sure the system is stable, the area is ready, bias is controlled, and the right people are in place.