Labelling
Every item must be scannable.
Why it matters
A stocktake is done by scanning: that’s what makes it fast and accurate. An item without a readable label means looking up its code, typing it by hand or setting it aside. On a few items, that’s time lost. On a whole aisle, it’s a wrong count: what isn’t scanned doesn’t exist in the result, and ends up as shrinkage.
What often happens
Damaged labels. Rubbed, torn, peeling: especially on items handled often and on the bottom shelves.
Two labels on one item. The supplier’s and the store’s, or the old one and the new one after a code change. The counter scans the first one they see.
Items never labelled. Arrived at the last minute, put on the shelf before being labelled.
What to do
Walk the aisles. Aisle by aisle, spot unreadable labels and items without one.
Keep a single label. When an item has two, remove or cover the one that no longer applies.
Test a few codes. Scan a few items per aisle and check they are recognised: you’ll know right away if an aisle has a problem.
Relabel before the day. Not during the count: a label gun in the middle of a stocktake slows everyone down.