Run: Inventory Cycle Count

The cycle count lead verifies the assigned count scope in the inventory system. - Confirm the SKU list, storage locations, and count date. - Confirm whether the count is blind or visible. - Confirm the target accuracy threshold for the area, typically 95-98%. - Stop and escalate if the task list includes an unapproved location or a locked area.

The inventory clerk secures the count area before counting begins. - Place a count-in-progress sign or barrier at the area entrance. - Pause picking, replenishment, and transfers for the counted locations when practical. - Notify nearby staff that the area is under count. - Escalate to the supervisor if the area cannot be isolated enough to produce a reliable count.

The inventory clerk counts each assigned SKU and records the quantity. - Count one SKU at a time. - Verify the SKU identifier, unit of measure, and location before recording the quantity. - Record the quantity exactly as observed. - If the SKU is damaged, mixed, or unlabeled, pause and flag it for review instead of guessing the quantity.

The cycle count lead compares the physical count to the system quantity. - Review the counted quantity against the on-hand quantity in the system. - Calculate the variance and confirm the unit of measure. - If the variance is within the site tolerance, document the result and close the count. - If the variance exceeds tolerance, route the item for recount and investigation.

The cycle count lead decides whether the variance is resolved by recount or requires escalation. - Recount the item using the same unit of measure and location controls. - Compare the recount result to the original physical count. - If the recount confirms the original count, proceed to variance documentation. - If the recount still does not reconcile, escalate for root-cause review.

The inventory clerk documents the final result and closes the count. - Enter the final accepted quantity in the system. - Record the variance reason using the approved discrepancy code. - Add a comment if the cause is known or suspected. - Mark the count complete only after the record is saved.

The cycle count lead escalates unresolved discrepancies to the inventory control supervisor. - Attach the count records, recount results, and discrepancy notes. - Identify the affected SKU, location, and variance amount. - Request root-cause investigation and corrective action. - Do not adjust inventory without authorized review when the variance remains unexplained.