1. Create the Inventory File and Set Up Its Settings
Start by creating an inventory file. Review the optional settings, such as Purchase Orders, Units of Measure and Assemblies, and set them up to fit your business.
2. Connect Your Stores
Connect your stores (for example Shopify, Amazon or eBay) to the inventory file to track sales and inventory. You can always come back to this step later.
3. Set Start Dates for Stores
You can set a start date for each connected store. From this date on, inventory is taken off automatically. You can change it later, but we recommend picking a date for which you know your exact inventory.
4. Set Up Warehouses
If you want to track inventory by warehouse, first turn on Warehouse Tracking. Go to Stores & Files, then Inventory Files, and click your inventory file. In File Settings, click Edit, open Inventory & Warehouse and turn on Warehouse Tracking. Then click Save. Then add warehouses to your file:
Default Warehouse: your main inventory location.
FBA Warehouses (Amazon): create 1 for each Amazon FBA store.
In Transit Warehouse (Amazon): for inventory on its way to FBA. Set the warehouse type to In Transit Warehouse.
If you have several local warehouses, we recommend creating 1 Master Local Warehouse for easier and more accurate inventory management.
5. Add Inventory Items
Add inventory items. Set a clear naming strategy so your names stay consistent, and new purchases and bills are easy to enter under the same name.
For larger item lists, use Excel for bulk uploads.
Add details like Units of Measure or Assemblies, if they apply.
6. Add Item Costs
Add the cost to each item. This step is critical before you make inventory adjustments. You can also do it in bulk using Excel to save time.
7. Map Listings
Map the SKUs to the matching inventory items. You can use the Unmapped shortcut (it might take some time to show) or upload an Excel file for faster mapping.
8. Adjust Inventory
Make initial inventory adjustments per warehouse so stock levels match your inventory as of the start date.
Local or 3PL warehouses: usually need a manual stock count. Use Excel for bulk adjustments.
FBA warehouses: use the FBA Adjustment feature. Make another adjustment after your in transit shipments have arrived, to account for shipments that were in transit on the start date.
9. Review and Set Up FBA Shipments
Go to the FBA Shipments page, transfer all shipments from after the start date of your file, and mark older shipments as ignored.
10. Add Bills or Purchase Orders and Review Landed Costs
Now you can start adding bills or purchase orders received after the start date. Also review the Landed Cost feature to include extra costs like shipping, taxes or fees in your inventory value.
11. Review Inventory Reports
Check these reports to keep an eye on inventory health and performance:
By following these steps, you'll have a well organized inventory system that supports smooth operations and accurate reporting.
Frequently asked questions
When do I make the second FBA adjustment?
After your in transit shipments have arrived. It accounts for shipments that were in transit on the start date.
Do I have to set up warehouses?
Only if you want to track inventory by warehouse. Turn on Warehouse Tracking in File Settings first.
Can I change a store's start date later?
Yes. We recommend a date for which you know your exact inventory.