Functions & Methods of Inventory Control Every Business Owner Should Understand

9 months ago
Functions & Methods of Inventory Control Every Business Owner Should Understand

In running a frozen food product business, an entrepreneur should not only focus on efforts extend the shelf life of the product, but also pay attention to various important factors, one of which isinventory control.

Because, withoutinventory control If done correctly, businesses may lose customers or even suffer losses in the long run.

Actually, what is it?inventory control and why its role is so important? If you want to understand the ins and outsinventory control, Starting from the definition, function, and method, see the complete explanation below!

What's that Inventory Control?

Inventory control or stock control Inventory management is a step taken to manage inventory in a business. This ensures sufficient inventory to avoid disrupting business operations and sales flow.

In general, the taskinventory control carried out by the warehouse operations team. However, in some companies, staff are appointed asstock controller is the PPIC section (Production Planning and Inventory Control).

Staffinventory control his duties include recording incoming goods, checking data,stock recording(regular physical stock checks), monitoring storage temperatures (for the frozen food industry), and reporting to management.

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Function Inventory Control

Inventory control plays a crucial role in supporting business operations, particularly in the trade and manufacturing sectors. Efficient production processes are inseparable from the availability of sufficient, high-quality materials.

There are several functionsinventory control is as follows:

  • Avoid production constraints triggered by delays in raw materials.

  • Manage goods according to specifications, identity numbers, and types.

  • Set the priority of outgoing goods.

  • Make the process easierrestock (stock updates for items that are running low or out of stock).

  • Supporting purchases that can bring profits.

  • Ensure that the products marketed are in accordance with consumer needs.

  • Provides useful information for the warehouse department,purchasing (purchase), production,sales (sales), to management.

MethodInventory Control

In general, there are a number of methods that you can apply ininventory control, that is:

1. MethodJust in Time (JIT)

The JIT method is particularly well-suited for MSMEs. This method aims to reduce inventory by ordering goods only when they are needed.

By implementing the JIT method, limited storage space is no longer a constraint. Furthermore, the risk of losses due to damaged or expired stock can be minimized, resulting in a more efficient production process.

However, this method requires careful planning and solid communication withsupplier to ensure there are no problems related to delivery times.

2. ABC Analysis

The ABC analysis method is carried out by dividing goods into several categories based on consumption value and priority.

Generally, this division consists of category A with high value and low volume, category B with medium value and medium volume, and category C with low value and high volume.

This method allows companies to focus more on items that contribute the most to profits. However, if a company implements this method, the staffinventory control must be very careful in analyzing the relevance of product categories periodically.

3. First-In First-Out (FIFO)

The process of goods entering a warehouse is generally not simultaneous, which affects their expiration date. Therefore, under the FIFO method, the earliest goods entered the warehouse are used or sold first.

This method is very effective for products with a limited shelf life, such as food. However, the FIFO method is less suitable for products with fluctuating prices because it can affect the cost of goods sold (COGS).

4. First-Expired-First-Out (FEFO)

As with the FIFO method, items closest to their expiration date are removed first. This method can reduce the risk of expired goods being wasted.

The FEFO method is very suitable for companies operating in the retail, pharmaceutical, food, beverage, and various types of goods that have an expiration date.

5. Last-In, First-Out (LIFO)

The LIFO method is the opposite of FIFO. In this method, the last items to enter the warehouse are the first to be sold or used.

In contrast to FIFO, the LIFO method is more suitable for businesses with durable products and fluctuating raw material prices, such as the construction materials industry. Another advantage of this method is the opportunity to reduce taxes during periods of inflation, as the cost of newer goods is relatively higher.

However, this method can affect the accuracy of financial reports because it does not reflect the true market value.

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6. Cross-Docking

If you are looking for a methodinventory control which means you don't need to store things,cross-docking is one of the answers. At first glance the methodcross dockingsomewhat similar to LIFO, in that it prioritizes shipping the newest items.

However, the fact is that this method Minimizes the use of storage warehouses. After being unloaded from the delivery vehicle, goods are immediately sorted and transferred to the vehicle handling the outbound shipment.

Companies that implement the methodcross docking usually want to combine products from severalsupplier and facilitates delivery to smaller units simultaneously.

Best Inventory Control Recommendations

If you need serviceinventory control with cross docking and FEFO methods trusted, MGM Bosco Logisticsis the solution. We are ready to help you systematically manage all processes, from receiving, storing, picking, shipping, and reporting goods. We are also committed to ensuring your goods are always at the required temperature.

In addition to the selection of methodsinventory control To ensure the right shipping, you also need to pay attention to the quality of the warehouse and shipping logistics. No need to worry, because MGM Bosco Logistics provides the solution. cold storagewith standardsfood-grade and environmentally friendly technology. We also provide a variety of logistics services with a neat and modern system.

With over 20 years of experience, MGM Bosco Logistic continues to expand its operational area and recently opened its presence in Palembang, with a cold storage facility that began operations in February 2024.

MGM Bosco now operates a warehouse in Palembang with a storage capacity of 2,500 pallets and is equipped with the latest technology for reliable refrigeration and warehouse management operations. For more information on our services, please contact us. contact us quick!

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