removed later, update the label. This may feel tedious, but it dramatically speeds up the final count. Organize your inventory to streamline the process. The service department often has large quantities of spare parts and kits, so staging these for quick scanning is helpful. Make sure every item is accessible – tucked-away products are time- consuming to find during the count. Check display cases for items no longer in their original packaging and gather their boxes in advance. As you organize, inspect barcode labels. Re- place any that are missing, damaged, or faded. Printing new labels on inventory day wastes valuable time. Conducting the Inventory: When inventory day arrives, start early. Many dive retailers choose to begin with the repair and service department, which often has the most complex stock. Tackling the hardest area first can boost motivation for the rest of the day. Be systematic as you scan. On shelves, complete one section entirely before moving to another. On slat walls, move top to bottom and left to right, marking com- pleted areas to avoid duplication. Jumping around increases errors. Once the count is complete, reconcile your results with your system. If you counted more items than your records show, RETAILING continued
adjust the quantity. If your system shows items you didn’t count, try to locate them. If they’re missing, make the neces- sary adjustments. Finally, post the updated inventory in your management software – and celebrate a major job well done. Why It Matters: A full physical inventory is more than a tedious year-end task – it’s essential to your business’s financial health. Accurate inventory ensures that your balance sheet re- flects true asset value and that your profit and loss statements are correct. These figures also affect your tax filings, so accu- racy here has real financial consequences. Knowing what you have on hand helps you plan better for the coming year. It informs purchasing decisions, prevents overstocking or shortages, and ensures your team is prepared to deliver the same high-quality service your customers expect. It also highlights theft or loss trends that may need to be ad- dressed with better security or procedures. Yes, it has been a long and successful dive season, and the new year is just around the corner. Completing a thorough physical inventory
now ensures you start that new year with confi- dence and clarity. With thoughtful planning, care- ful preparation, and a systematic approach, you’ll be ready to dive into the next season stronger than ever.
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