Parts Physical Inventory

Managing automotive parts inventory is no easy feat. Dealerships often struggle with maintaining accurate stock levels, which can lead to inefficiencies, lost sales, and frustrated customers. One of the most effective ways to improve inventory accuracy is through regular physical counts. Here’s why automotive dealerships should prioritize this practice: 1. Enhance Inventory Accuracy A physical count is the gold standard…

Maintaining an accurate parts inventory is critical for dealership profitability. While most dealerships conduct an annual physical inventory, relying solely on a once-a-year count can leave you vulnerable to errors, theft, and accounting discrepancies. So, how often should you actually conduct a physical inventory? The Minimum: Annual Physical Inventory A full parts physical inventory should be conducted at least once…

Many dealerships assume their parts inventory records are accurate—until an audit or reconciliation exposes discrepancies. Even with regular tracking, inventory accuracy can drift over time due to small, unnoticed errors that accumulate. Here’s why your physical inventory might not be as precise as you think and what you can do about it. 1. Misplaced or Unlabeled Parts A common issue…

Maintaining an accurate parts inventory is essential for dealership profitability and efficiency. One of the best ways to ensure accuracy without disrupting daily operations is through cycle counting. Instead of conducting a full physical inventory once a year, cycle counts allow dealerships to verify inventory in smaller, more manageable segments on a regular basis. What is a Cycle Count? A…

Managing an accurate parts inventory is essential for profitability, but many dealerships unknowingly make costly mistakes. These errors lead to accounting discrepancies, lost sales, and unnecessary expenses. Let’s break down the five most common mistakes and how to fix them. 1. Not Reconciling Parts Inventory to the General Ledger (GL) Regularly Many dealerships only reconcile parts inventory at month-end, leaving…

When it comes to automotive parts inventories, accuracy and efficiency are critical. Dealerships face the constant challenge of maintaining precise stock levels while ensuring that their financial records match the physical inventory. One of the decisions dealerships must make is whether to perform inventory counts internally or hire a third-party service. While internal counts can be cost-effective, third-party inventory counts…

When a dealership undergoes a buy/sell transaction, the accuracy of its parts inventory valuation is critical. Failing to properly audit parts inventory can result in financial discrepancies, disputes, or unexpected losses for buyers and sellers alike. Conducting a thorough audit ensures transparency, protects investments, and helps facilitate a smooth transition. Why Parts Inventory Audits Matter in Buy/Sell Transactions Accurate Valuation:…

PartsCount by Total Dealer Solutions (TDS) was established in 2003 to meet the automotive dealers’ need for an unbiased, professional third party parts physical inventory. We specialize in the automotive industry exclusively because with specialization comes expertise. Here are some tips and best practices to follow to maintain a clean parts inventory.

A parts physical inventory is a process where an automotive dealership physically counts its entire parts inventory. It is recommended that a parts physical inventory be conducted every year. Why should I do a parts physical inventory? Physical accounting of the dealership’s parts assets is critical in managing a dealership’s capital investment. A physical inventory is also essential to keep…