What is perpetual inventory procedure?
Isabella Turner
Updated on December 31, 2025
Perpetual inventory is a continuous accounting practice that records inventory changes in real-time, without the need for physical inventory, so the book inventory accurately shows the real stock. Warehouses register perpetual inventory using input devices such as point of sale (POS) systems and scanners.
What types of companies use perpetual inventory system?
Businesses with high sales volume and multiple retail outlets (like grocery stores or pharmacies) need perpetual inventory systems. The technological aspect of the perpetual inventory system has many advantages such as the ability to more easily identify inventory-related errors.
When would you use a perpetual inventory system?
Perpetual inventory systems use digital technology to track inventory in real time using updates sent electronically to central databases. At a grocery store using the perpetual inventory system, when products with barcodes are swiped and paid for, the system automatically updates inventory levels in a database.
Who uses a perpetual inventory system?
Perpetual inventory is often used in large businesses whereas simpler systems like periodic inventory are generally seen in smaller businesses. Perpetual inventory systems are also used when a company has more than one location or when a business carries expensive goods such as an electronics company or jewelry store.
What are the benefits of a perpetual inventory system?
A perpetual inventory system gives an ecommerce business an accurate view of stock levels at any time without the manual process required for a periodic inventory system. The automation that a perpetual inventory system provides frees up time and capital.
What is the purpose of perpetual inventory?
Perpetual inventory provides a highly detailed view of changes in inventory with immediate reporting of the amount of inventory in stock, and accurately reflects the level of goods on hand.
Why do most companies use perpetual inventory system?
Perpetual inventory systems are also used when a company has more than one location or when a business carries expensive goods such as an electronics company or jewelry store. It is a proactive way to prevent stock from running out as when stock is low it can be instantly identified and stock can be reordered.
What is monthly inventory system?
The process of taking a physical inventory requires that one physically count the actual number of units of each item in stock and record that number at the appropriate place in the inventory book. …