Stichtagsinventur
Also: Stichtagsinventur, Stichtaginventur, Jahresinventur, Inventur zum Stichtag, Stichtagszählung
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The key-date inventory is a form of stocktaking in which all inventory levels are fully recorded and valued at a single, predetermined date. It is regarded as the classic stocktaking method and is recognized under both commercial and tax law.
Key facts
- In a key-date inventory, all stocks are physically recorded and valued at a single, predetermined date.
- It generally requires a complete operational shutdown, as no warehouse movements are permitted during the count.
- The method is recognized under commercial and tax law and fulfills the statutory inventory obligation pursuant to the HGB.
- Count quality, tolerance thresholds, and a clear resolution process for discrepancies are decisive for producing usable results.
- The key-date inventory can be supplemented by statistical sampling methods, provided the relevant legal requirements are met.
What is the key-date inventory?
In a key-date inventory, all stocks held in a warehouse or company are physically counted, weighed, or measured on a specific reference date and subsequently valued. The reference date often falls at the end of a fiscal year, though this is not strictly required. The results form the basis for the annual financial statements and balance sheet. The German Commercial Code (HGB) mandates an inventory obligation; the key-date inventory is one of the permitted methods for fulfilling it.
How does the key-date inventory work in practice?
Execution requires careful preparation. The process typically runs in three phases:
- Preparation: Warehouse areas are tidied and clearly marked. Counting teams are assigned, count sheets or MDE devices are prepared, and the system inventory is frozen. Warehouse movements on the reference date must be halted or documented without gaps to prevent double counts or omissions.
- Counting: The physical count is carried out wherever possible by two independent individuals (initial count and recount). Any discrepancies between the count result and the system inventory are flagged immediately and referred for clarification.
- Completion: The counted quantities are reconciled with the system inventory. Variances above defined tolerance thresholds are analyzed and corrected as necessary. The inventory record must be retained in an audit-proof manner.
For larger warehouses, the key-date inventory generally requires a complete operational shutdown, as no stock movements may take place during the count. This is its principal disadvantage compared with perpetual inventory or sampling-based inventory methods.
What matters when planning the process?
The quality of a key-date inventory stands or falls with the counting organization. Key decision points include the choice between a full count and statistically recognized sampling methods, the training of counting teams, and the use of appropriate tools such as barcode scanners or MDE devices. Clear tolerance thresholds and a defined resolution process for discrepancies must be established before the inventory begins. Anyone working with external inventory service providers should regulate responsibilities and documentation obligations contractually. The distinction from perpetual inventory is relevant: perpetual inventory spreads counts throughout the year and avoids operational shutdowns, but demands more effort in ongoing maintenance. Which method is more suitable depends on warehouse structure, number of SKUs, and operational workflows.
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.
- BDE-System
A BDE system (operational data collection system) captures machine and manual process data in real time directly at the source – such as at machines, conveyor systems, or workstations.
- Bestand in der Logistik
In logistics, inventory refers to the quantity of goods physically present or recorded in accounting at a specific point in time – including raw materials, semi-finished goods, and finished products. It is a key control variable because it ties up capital while simultaneously ensuring the ability to deliver.
- 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…
- 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.
- Chargenrückverfolgung
Batch traceability refers to the complete and uninterrupted trackability of products and materials along the supply chain based on their batch assignment. It enables companies to quickly identify and selectively block all affected quantities in the event of a quality issue or recall.