Office Administration
Stocktaking
Definition
Stocktaking is the physical count of items held in stock, compared against the stock records so that shortages, surpluses or damaged items can be investigated.
How do you run a stocktake?
- Freeze stock movements and print the count sheets.
- Count in pairs, with one person who does not manage the stock.
- Compare counts with the records and recount large differences.
- Explain and approve every variance before adjusting the records.
Where can you learn stocktaking and variance analysis?
The Office Stocktaking and Inventory Variance Analysis course covers counts and variances. Long-term items are tracked separately in a fixed asset register.
Where can you go next?
Courses, checks and reading on the same work.- CourseOffice Stocktaking & Inventory Variance Analysis
- CourseOffice Inventory Planning & Control
- CourseOffice Inventory & Stock Records Management
- CertificationCertified Office Inventory Controller (COIC)
- Free online assessmentDo your stock records match the shelf? Free office inventory check
- GuideHow to run an office stocktake
- Glossary termFixed asset register
- Glossary termStandard operating procedure (SOP)
Which sources does this page use?
This page states no statutory figures, so it cites no official source.
Updated 20 October 2026. General information from the Certifyd team, not legal, tax or safety advice for your workplace.