1. Set The Count Date(s)
Do this early so everyone has notice. Avoid dates
when people are preoccupied such as the days around Thanksgiving and
New Year. with several locations, consider counting them on
different dates.
2. Select The Method
Bar-Code Readers-- Bar Codes make counting
simpler, faster, easier and more accurate. However, they are
expensive and require labels on every bin or product.
Count Cards-- Count cards (cards for each
product and location) are a "low-tech" alternative to bar-code.
Place these cards on shelves or bins before the count starts to
allow a sequential count. This facilitates the discovery of "lost"
material. Provide each counter some blank cards for newly discovered
items.
Count Sheets-- Count sheets (8-1/2" x 11" with
about 25 items) are easier to handle than cards. However, because
multiple items are listed on a sheet, counters may be tempted to
only count the items printed, and overlook misplaced material or
products. Sheets usually give less accurate counts. |
3. Identify The
Counters
If you are using bar code equipment, one person
can count a section of your warehouse. With count cards or sheets
two-person teams work better. Pair an experienced employee with
someone having less knowledge the material.
4. Order Supplies
Supplies may include count cards, bar code readers,
clipboards, and computer paper.
5. Police The Area
Clean out the junk, return everything to its proper
place, mark all locations and scrub things down. Do this at least
two weeks prior to the count.
6. Train People
Almost everyone who participates will require at
least some training. among the topics are:
-
Material Types & Locations
-
Counting Methods
-
Safety Procedures
-
Documentation Procedures
-
Reconciliation Procedures
-
Handling Equipment Operation
|
The annual physical inventory is all too familiar to
most manufacturing people. For many, it is an unpleasant experience
of chaos and boredom.
