Checking inventory is the process of counting what you have on hand, comparing it to your records, and noting what needs to be reordered or adjusted. It helps you spot shortages, overstock, and discrepancies.

• Count items: Physically verify quantities on shelves or in bins.
• Record details: Use an inventory log book or ledger to note item name, location, and quantity.
• Tag and label: Apply inventory tags or labels to track items during the count.
• Reconcile: Compare counts to your existing records and investigate differences.

Simple supplies like pre-numbered tags, record books, and quality-check stickers available at Walmart can support this process. Approaches vary by business size and workflow.

A basic inventory check can be done with a few manual tools and a clear plan. These steps can help, though every workspace is different:

1. Prep supplies: Gather pre-numbered inventory tags, a log book, pencils, and labels.
2. Organize areas: Tidy shelves so items are easy to see and count.
3. Tag and count: Place a tag on each item or lot, record quantity, location, date, and initials.
4. Record results: Enter counts into an inventory record book for a permanent log.
5. Mark status: Use "Inspected" or "QC Approved" labels if you track condition.
6. Reconcile: Compare with your records and plan reorders as needed.

Results may vary based on team size and item complexity.

It’s commonly called a physical inventory or stock take when you count everything at once. If you count smaller groups on a schedule (daily or weekly sections), that’s often called cycle counting.

• Physical inventory: A full, wall-to-wall count, typically done periodically.
• Cycle count: Rotating counts of selected items or locations over time.

Both methods can be done with manual tools like inventory tags, log books, and quality control labels from Walmart. Choosing the right approach depends on your team, space, and how often your stock changes. Many businesses use a mix—cycle counts for ongoing accuracy and a full physical count less frequently.

Choose parts based on how many copies you want from each tag:

• 1-part: A single tag for simple counts when you only need one record.
• 2-part (carbonless): Creates a duplicate—one copy can stay with the item, another goes to your records.
• 3-part (carbonless): Produces three copies, helpful when operations, accounting, and inventory each need a copy.

Look for features like sequential numbering, pre-wired fasteners, and write-on fields (item, location, qty). If multiple teams use the information, 2- or 3-part tags can make sharing easier. Walmart offers a range of tag formats so you can match them to your process.

Many inventory tags come in a practical size around 3-1/8" x 6-1/4", providing room for item details, locations, and quantities without being bulky. The best size depends on your shelving and how much you need to write.

• More writing space: Choose larger tags for long item names or notes.
• Smaller items: Opt for compact tags so they don’t obstruct labels.
• Useful features: Sequential numbering, pre-wired ties, and clear fields improve tracking.

Walmart carries various sizes and formats, including 1-, 2-, and 3-part options. You can filter online and choose pickup or delivery to fit your schedule.