Inventory Module FAQ

General Questions

What's the difference between perpetual and periodic inventory?

Angage uses perpetual inventory, meaning stock levels update in real-time with each transaction. Periodic inventory would only update during physical counts. Perpetual provides better accuracy and visibility.

Can I track inventory in multiple locations?

Yes, the system supports unlimited warehouse locations with hierarchical structure (Warehouse → Zone → Aisle → Rack → Bin). Each location can have different rules and characteristics.

How accurate is the mobile scanning system?

With proper implementation, barcode scanning achieves 99.9% accuracy. This compares to 65-80% accuracy with manual methods. The system prevents common errors through validation and verification steps.

Item Management

Can I have multiple units of measure for one item?

Yes, you can define a base unit and unlimited conversion units. For example:

• Base: Each
• Box: 12 Each
• Pallet: 10 Boxes (120 Each) The system handles all conversions automatically.

How do I manage product variants?

1. Create a master product
2. Define variant attributes (size, color, material)
3. System generates all combinations
4. Each variant has unique SKU but shares master data
5. Can manage pricing and stock separately

What's the best way to handle seasonal items?

• Create seasonal categories
• Set active/inactive dates
• Plan phase-out with markdown schedules
• Archive when season ends
• Reactivate next season with updated details

Stock Operations

How do transfers between warehouses work?

1. Create transfer order specifying source and destination
2. Pick items at source warehouse
3. Ship with tracking
4. Receive at destination warehouse
5. System tracks in-transit inventory throughout

When should I do cycle counts vs full physical inventory?

Cycle Counts: Regular counting of subset of inventory

• Best for ongoing accuracy
• Less disruptive
• ABC method recommended

Physical Inventory: Count everything at once

• Required annually for audit
• Good for cleanup
• More resource-intensive

How do I handle damaged goods?

1. Identify damaged items during receiving or counting
2. Move to quarantine location
3. Create adjustment with reason code
4. Take photos for documentation
5. Process write-off or vendor claim
6. Update inventory and financials

Mobile Scanning

What devices are supported for mobile scanning?

• iOS devices (iPhone/iPad)
• Android devices
• Dedicated scanners (Zebra, Honeywell)
• Wearable scanners
• Vehicle-mounted units All connect via the Angage mobile app.

Can I work offline?

Yes, the mobile app supports offline mode:

1. Download tasks while connected
2. Work offline in warehouse
3. Data queues locally
4. Syncs when connection restored
5. Handles conflicts automatically

What if a barcode won't scan?

• Clean the barcode
• Check scanner lens
• Verify barcode format in system
• Use manual entry as backup
• Report damaged labels for replacement
• System logs all manual entries for review

Location Management

How do I optimize warehouse layout?

1. Analyze item velocity (fast/slow movers)
2. Place fast movers in accessible locations
3. Use ABC analysis for slotting
4. Consider weight and size
5. Minimize travel distance
6. Review and adjust quarterly

What are the benefits of directed putaway?

System suggests optimal locations based on:

• Available space
• Item characteristics
• Velocity codes
• Pick path optimization
• Load balancing Results in 30-50% efficiency improvement.

Can I reserve locations for specific items?

Yes, you can:

• Dedicate locations to specific SKUs
• Set up forward pick locations
• Reserve areas for categories
• Create project-specific zones
• Maintain flexible locations for overflow

Inventory Control

How often should I cycle count?

Recommended frequency:

• A items (high value): Monthly or weekly
• B items (medium value): Quarterly
• C items (low value): Annually
• New items: Within first week
• Problem items: More frequently

What causes inventory discrepancies?

Common causes:

• Receiving errors
• Picking mistakes
• Unit of measure confusion
• Theft or damage
• System timing issues
• Returns not processed Regular cycle counts help identify patterns.

How do I set reorder points?

Calculate based on:

• Average daily usage
• Lead time
• Safety stock desired
• Seasonal variations Formula: (Daily Usage × Lead Time) + Safety Stock

Batch/Serial Tracking

When do I need batch tracking?

Required for:

• Food products (expiration dates)
• Pharmaceuticals (lot tracking)
• Electronics (warranty tracking)
• Regulated items (compliance)
• Quality control (traceability)

Can I track both batch and serial numbers?

Yes, items can be:

• Batch only (multiple items, same lot)
• Serial only (unique per item)
• Both batch and serial (lot + individual tracking) Configure based on requirements.

How does FIFO/FEFO work?

FIFO (First In, First Out): Oldest stock ships first FEFO (First Expired, First Out): Earliest expiration ships first

System automatically suggests picks based on configuration and tracks compliance.

Reporting & Analytics

What inventory reports are most useful?

Essential reports:

• Stock on hand by location
• Inventory valuation
• Aging analysis
• Movement history
• Cycle count variances
• Reorder report
• Dead stock analysis

How do I identify slow-moving inventory?

Run inventory turnover analysis:

1. Set period (e.g., 12 months)
2. Calculate turns by item
3. Identify items below threshold
4. Review for obsolescence
5. Plan liquidation strategies

Can I set up automatic alerts?

Yes, configure alerts for:

• Low stock levels
• Expiring products
• Overstock situations
• Cycle count due
• Receiving discrepancies
• Temperature excursions

Integration

How does inventory sync with sales?

Real-time integration:

• Order confirmation reserves stock
• Shipment updates availability
• Returns restore inventory
• Cancellations release reservations
• All automatic and immediate

What about manufacturing integration?

If using manufacturing module:

• Component availability checking
• Work order material allocation
• Finished goods receipt
• Scrap and yield tracking
• Cost roll-up

Can I integrate with 3PL providers?

Yes, through:

• EDI connections
• API integration
• File exchange
• Real-time inventory feeds
• Consolidated reporting

Troubleshooting

Why is my inventory negative?

Possible causes:

• Shipment before receipt posting
• Incorrect unit of measure
• Timing issues
• Missing receipts Enable "Prevent Negative Stock" to avoid.

Stock shows available but can't find it?

Check:

• Multiple locations
• Reserved quantities
• Quality holds
• In-transit stock
• Pending transactions
• Cycle count needed

Why don't my counts match the system?

Verify:

• Counting correct unit of measure
• All locations included
• No pending transactions
• Correct cutoff time
• Recent movements posted

Best Practice

Regular cycle counting is more effective than annual physical inventories for maintaining accuracy. Focus on high-value and high-velocity items.