The retail dump bin is a retail store’s dream. Set up a barrel, fill it with mixed product, attach a splashy sign screaming an unbeatable sale price, and watch the customers buy, buy, buy.
Unfortunately, the retail dump bin is an inventory auditor’s nightmare. There’s no way to organize the different items within the bin, so the auditor can’t tell what’s been scanned versus what has not. There’s no way the auditor could remove all of that product out of the bin, put it on the floor in the middle of a busy aisle, count it, and then return it to the bin.
So what’s the solution?
There are three effective ways to capture this product as part of your inventory:
- Have your store associates “pre-count” the product and provide totals to the inventory service, or reconcile at the end of the physical inventory count.
- Have an Inventory auditor count the product and transfer to a shopping cart as it’s counted, returning it to the bin once all product has been accounted for.
- Have an inventory count approximately ½ of the bin, then double that count.
Option #2 is the most accurate method of capturing this product. Option #3 is the most efficient.
Partner with PICS Inventory
The popularity of retail dump bins within retail and grocery stores is exploding in popularity. Chains across the country are finding them an extremely effective sales tool and are using the technique throughout their stores. But don’t let it get in the way of an accurate inventory. Think about which methodology works best for your business and make the decision on how to capture this merchandise in advance of inventory day.
Are you in need of inventory services? Contact us today!