What is cycle counting?
October 30, 2026
Cycle counting is counting a small part of your stock on a regular schedule, rather than counting everything at once. Over a set period every product gets counted, so stock records stay accurate without closing the warehouse for a full stock take.
Why it matters for online retailers
When stock records drift from what is on the shelf, you oversell items you don't have and miss sales on items you do. Cycle counting catches errors early, while the warehouse keeps picking.
How to schedule cycle counts
- ABC counting: count fast-selling or high-value lines most often.
- Location counting: count one area or aisle at a time.
- Triggered counts: count a bin when it is empty, low or flagged during a pick.
Cycle count vs full stock take
- Cycle count: small, frequent, no shutdown.
- Full stock take: everything at once, usually yearly, often closing the warehouse.
How StoreFeeder handles it
StoreFeeder offers nine stock-check methods on the handheld, including full stock takes, rolling cycle counts, location checks and product-level counts, and the warehouse can keep picking while you count. Every adjustment is logged with the user and reason.
Read more about StoreFeeder inventory management.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I cycle count?
Many retailers count their fastest or most valuable lines weekly and slower lines monthly or quarterly.
Does cycle counting replace a year-end stock take?
It can, if your accountant is happy that counts are regular and well recorded.
What should I do when a count is wrong?
Correct the record, note the reason and look for the cause, such as picking errors or stock not being booked in.
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