Platzinventur
Also: Platzzählung, platzbezogene Inventur, lagerplatzbezogene Inventur, Platzinventuren, Cycle Counting
AI-generated
Location inventory is a storage-location-based counting method in which defined storage locations are recorded individually and stock discrepancies are corrected in the warehouse management system.
Key facts
- Location inventory counts storage locations individually and distributed throughout the year, rather than recording total stock on a single cutoff date.
- It is a core component of perpetual inventory and enables stock corrections without a complete warehouse shutdown.
- Counting plans are frequently prioritized according to ABC criteria, so that high-value or error-prone locations are checked more often.
- Discrepancies between physical and book inventory should not only be corrected but also analyzed for root causes in order to permanently eliminate process errors.
- Its suitability as a replacement for the cutoff-date inventory required under commercial law depends on the documented traceability and the procedure used – this should be coordinated with a tax advisor or auditor.
What is location inventory?
In location inventory, the physical stock of a warehouse is not recorded in its entirety on a single cut-off date, but rather on a location-by-location basis at regular intervals distributed throughout the year. Each storage location – whether a shelf compartment, floor space, or bin position – is treated as an independent counting unit. The result of each count is compared with the book inventory in the warehouse management system (WMS) and corrected in the event of a discrepancy. The method belongs to the procedures of perpetual inventory and is frequently equated in practice with the term cycle counting.
How does location inventory work in practice?
A central element is the counting plan, which defines which locations are counted and when. This is typically based on criteria such as access frequency, goods value, or the historical error risk of an area. High-frequency locations with high-value items are included in the cycle more often than rarely used slow-mover positions. This approach often draws on an ABC classification of warehouse stock.
The actual counting is carried out in many operations using mobile data collection devices (MDE). The employee scans the location, records the quantity found, and the reconciliation takes place directly in the system. Depending on the WMS configuration, locations can be blocked for warehouse movements during the count or at least flagged as "in counting".
Related terms
- ABC-Analyse
ABC analysis is a method for classifying items, vendors, or processes into three priority classes (A, B, C) based on their economic significance. It forms the basis for differentiated decision-making in warehousing, inventory management, and procurement.
- Artikelstammdaten
Item master data refers to the permanently valid base data of an item – such as dimensions, weight, packaging units, hazardous goods classification, and best-before date relevance. It forms the foundation for all logistical, procurement-related, and system-driven processes along the supply chain.
- Bestandscontrolling
Inventory controlling refers to the systematic monitoring, analysis, and management of stock levels using defined key performance indicators. It connects logistics and procurement to reduce tied-up capital and ensure delivery capability.
- Bestandsführung
Inventory management refers to the system-supported administration and continuous updating of all warehouse and material stocks within a company. It forms the basis for planning, procurement and accounting – and ensures that the book inventory and physical inventory are in agreement at all times.
- Bestandsmanagement
Inventory management refers to the systematic planning, control, and monitoring of stock levels across the entire supply chain. The goal is to ensure delivery capability while keeping capital commitment and warehousing costs within economically viable limits.
- Bestandssicherheit
Inventory accuracy refers to the degree to which the book inventory and the actual physical stock in the warehouse match. High inventory accuracy prevents shortages, excess stock, and faulty replenishment decisions.
- Bestandssicherheit Lager
Inventory accuracy in the warehouse refers to the correspondence between stock levels recorded in the system and those physically present. It is a central quality benchmark for warehouse processes and the foundation for reliable delivery capability.
- Bewegungsdaten
Movement data captures all transactions and physical goods movements in the logistics process – from goods receipt and stock transfers to dispatch. It contains timestamps, quantities, locations and the units involved, and forms the basis for transparency, control and analysis in warehouse and…
- Chaotische Lagerhaltung
Chaotic storage is a warehousing principle in which items are not stored in fixed, pre-assigned locations, but are instead dynamically placed in any available, suitable slot in the warehouse. A warehouse management system handles the control and tracking of all storage locations.
- Charge
A batch is a uniquely identifiable quantity of products manufactured or processed under identical conditions. It forms the basis for traceability, quality control, and legally required recall processes throughout the entire supply chain.