Your Inventory Compendium by OMS Retail

Inventory Explained: Practical Knowledge

In this section, inventory explained is presented in a structured and practice-oriented format. We provide clear explanations, legal context and practical guidance relevant to retail and other industries.

The content is regularly updated and offers companies reliable orientation when planning, conducting and documenting inventory processes.

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Everything You Need to Know – Inventory Explained

Inventory Basics – Clearly Explained

What is an inventory?

An inventory is the complete and systematic recording of all assets and liabilities of a company at a specific reporting date. It forms the basis for proper accounting in accordance with Section 240 HGB and creates transparency regarding stock levels, valuations and business decisions.

Inventory explained

What types of inventory are there?

Different types of inventory regulate the method, timing and scope of stocktaking. They ensure compliance with Section 240 HGB and support accurate valuation as well as reliable financial reporting.

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What are the principles of stocktaking?

Inventory principles ensure that assets and liabilities are recorded completely, accurately and clearly. They safeguard compliant accounting and provide a reliable foundation for well-informed business decisions.

Principles

Inventory obligation according to HGB and AO

The obligation to conduct an inventory is defined by the German Commercial Code (HGB) and the Fiscal Code (AO). It ensures transparent documentation, reliable annual financial statements and legally compliant accounting processes.

Inventory obligation

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Basics of Inventory Management

Efficient and Audit-Proof with the Right Inventory Procedures

Selecting the appropriate inventory procedure is essential for accurate and traceable inventory data. Whether physical inventory, book inventory or asset-based inventory, each method meets legal requirements and offers specific advantages depending on the business structure. A structured and well-documented approach ensures transparency, compliance and operational efficiency. Learn how OMS Retail supports companies in implementing suitable inventory procedures and delivering audit-proof results.

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Efficient Inventory Management in Retail

Our Guide Articles on Inventory Explained

Practical Stocktaking Tips for Companies

A precise inventory is the result of clearly defined processes and well-trained employees – from preparation through to final evaluation. Early planning and consistent implementation help to prevent errors and ensure reliable inventory results. Structured procedures, modern technology and experienced teams contribute to efficiency and accuracy. Learn how OMS Retail supports companies in conducting inventories transparently, economically and in compliance with legal requirements.

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How to Avoid Inventory Differences

Inventory differences often arise from minor errors with significant impact – such as incorrect postings or unrecorded withdrawals. They create discrepancies between target and actual stock levels and influence inventory valuation. Clear procedures, trained staff and appropriate technology reduce the risk of errors and strengthen data reliability. Discover how OMS Retail supports companies in maintaining accurate and transparent stock records over the long term.

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Stocktaking checklist for audit-proof results

A well-structured inventory requires clear workflows, compliant documentation and thorough preparation. The inventory checklist from OMS Retail outlines step by step what companies should consider – from legal requirements and deadlines to practical guidance for smooth execution. Find out how this structured approach helps avoid common mistakes and ensures efficient, audit-proof inventory processes.

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Information

A specialized inventory service provider ensures accurate and legally compliant inventories, reduces error rates and liability risks, and supports companies with structured processes and transparent documentation.

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Successful Inventories through Optimal Personnel Management

Smart Personnel Planning for Precise Inventories

Structured workforce planning forms the foundation of reliable inventory processes. Stocktaking can only be completed on time and with minimal errors when capacities, schedules and responsibilities are clearly defined. OMS Retail supports companies across Europe with experienced inventory teams, digital deployment management and established route concepts. This ensures predictable workflows, accurate results and a measurable reduction in workload for internal staff – regardless of the number of locations or the scope of the inventory project.

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Principles of inventory valuation

The Inventory as the Result of Stocktaking

Precise Inventories for Legally Compliant Documentation

An inventory is the documented result of every stocktaking and must be complete, transparent and compliant with legal requirements. Reliable inventory data, clear valuation standards and audit-proof documentation form the essential basis. With standardized processes and experienced inventory teams, OMS Retail supports companies in preparing robust inventories that provide both legal certainty and economic reliability.

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Targeted Inventories with Clear Priorities

ABC analysis classifies inventory according to value and relevance – from A to C categories. This enables companies to manage counting frequency and control efforts in a structured manner. High-value items are reviewed more frequently, while less critical items are counted at longer intervals. The result is improved efficiency, reduced costs and increased stock accuracy. OMS Retail assists companies in implementing structured prioritization to ensure reliable and sustainable inventory data.

More about ABC stocktaking types

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Inventory Explained Clearly

Your Wiki on Inventory Explained – Knowledge, Laws and Practice

In our inventory explained section, you will find concise information, legal foundations and practical guidance covering all key aspects of inventory processes. Alongside statutory requirements and different inventory types, we outline modern procedures, technical tools and industry-specific considerations. This provides a structured overview as well as practical recommendations and proven best practices to support the compliant and effective implementation of inventory procedures within your company.

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Our services

Complete support for inventories

Complete implementation of the inventory without internal personnel costs
Planning and organization including scheduling and interface adaptation
Recording of all inventories using modern scanning technology and real-time data transmission
Quality assurance through fixed teams and plausibility checks
Completion & follow-up with handover of results and feedback meeting

Looking for an inventory service provider?

Do not hesitate to contact us

Book your full-service inventory now and gain a reliable partner who will take the pressure off you in the long term. Give us a call or use our contact form for a personalized offer and you and your store network will benefit from our full service for a fast and efficient inventory in the future.

Sebastian Warnsmann – Ihr Ansprechpartner bei OMS Retail für Inventur- und ESL-Dienstleistungen

Your direct contact to us!

Mr. Sebastian Warnsmann will also be happy to advise you personally.

E-Mail: info@oms-retail.com
Phone: +49 (0)511 / 515 283-0