INVENTORY & WAREHOUSE OPERATIONS
Blind Counts
Blind counts are physical inventory counts performed without showing the counter the expected system quantity.
BLIND COUNTS IN PRACTICE
- Hide the expected count
- Record physical stock
- Review the difference
A WORKED EXAMPLE
48 expected. 46 counted independently.
The WMS holds 48 eaches for a bin, but the counter sees only the item and location. They record 46. The two-unit difference is then reviewed against transactions and a recount if required. The initial result should remain in the audit trail even if the recount finds 48.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR QUOTE
Make the requirement explicit
Use the same scope and units when comparing providers. Put the agreed responsibility, included work and exception process into the service description.
A LITTLE MORE CONTEXT
Questions about Blind Counts
Must all inventory counts be blind?
No. The counting program should specify where blind counting is used and how it is controlled.
Does a blind count automatically update stock?
It should follow the configured review and approval process rather than assuming every difference is a correction.
Source & example notes
Oracle Inventory User’s Guide: cycle counting. Further reading on the related controls and terminology. Product documentation describes a particular implementation; it does not establish a universal procedure or service commitment.
Definitions and worked examples are prepared by 3PL Hub. Numbers are illustrative, not provider rates, operating targets or guarantees.
Last updated: · 3PL Hub
