What is deadstock?
October 30, 2026
Deadstock is stock that hasn't sold for a long time and is unlikely to sell at full price. It takes up warehouse space, ties up cash and often has to be discounted, bundled, returned to the supplier or written off.
Why it matters for online retailers
Every unit of deadstock is money already spent that isn't coming back at full value. It also uses shelf space that faster-selling lines could fill, and it slows picking when warehouses get crowded.
Common causes of deadstock
- Over-ordering to hit a supplier's minimum order quantity.
- Seasonal lines left over after the season ends.
- Forecasts based on a one-off spike in sales.
- Product changes, such as a new model replacing an old one.
- Stock that is in the system but has been lost or misplaced.
How to clear deadstock
- Discount it on the channels where it sells best.
- Bundle it with faster-selling products.
- Ask the supplier about returns or credit.
- Sell it to a clearance buyer.
- Donate or write it off as a last resort.
How to stop it building up
- Track how long each line has been in stock and how fast it sells.
- Reorder from sales data, not gut feel.
- Order smaller amounts more often where you can.
How StoreFeeder handles it
StoreFeeder's Insights reporting and FIFO stock valuation show how much stock you hold and what it's worth, so slow-moving lines are easier to spot. Stock forecasting, included in every plan, helps you buy closer to real demand.
Read more about StoreFeeder inventory and stock forecasting.
Frequently asked questions
How long before stock counts as deadstock?
There's no fixed rule. Many retailers flag lines with no sales in 6 to 12 months, but fast-moving businesses may use a shorter period.
Is deadstock the same as obsolete stock?
They overlap. Obsolete stock can no longer be sold at all, for example because it has been replaced. Deadstock may still sell, just slowly or at a lower price.
Can I write off deadstock?
Usually, yes. Speak to your accountant about how to record a write-off.
