The NCAS classifies or groups inventory items using inventory detail records. An inventory detail record groups all items that have the following characteristics in common:

• Item number
• Warehouse location
• Storage area
• Inventory status
• Expiration date
• Document number

Classifying and Locating Inventory

Inventory detail records enable the warehouse manager to quickly locate items with the same characteristics. After locating the inventory detail record for the required items, the warehouse manager can carry the inventory detail information forward to processing screens in the Inventory module. Item transactions can then be processed on these screens.

In addition to using inventory detail records, the NCAS uses documents to further classify and separate inventory items. Items on an inventory detail record are separated from other items on the same inventory detail record using documents.

This section will explain the use of inventory detail records and documents to classify and group inventory items. You will learn two different methods for creating documents in the NCAS. You will also learn to use inquiry screens in the Inventory module to locate the inventory detail records for items.

Changing Item Locations

Items on an inventory detail record can be moved from one warehouse location or storage area to another in the NCAS. This movement should mirror the actual, physical movement of inventory. In this section, you will learn to use two different screens in the Inventory module to change an item’s location.

Adjusting Inventory Status

The NCAS also uses inventory detail records to adjust the inventory status of items. Each item in the NCAS has an inventory status of either active or inactive. Only active items may be allocated to orders. Inactive items include items that are damaged, have expired, or are being inspected. You will learn three methods available to the warehouse manager to change the inventory status for an item.

Reconciling Inventory

The process of reconciling inventory ensures that the on-hand balance of an item in the NCAS matches the physical quantity of the item in the warehouse. The warehouse manager uses cycle counts to reconcile inventory. A cycle count can be requested for an individual item or for previously established cycle count access paths. The warehouse manager uses inventory detail records in the process of cycle counting. You will learn to initiate and complete a cycle count in this section.

Included at the end of this section are samples of the reports that the warehouse manager can use to manage the inventory in his or her warehouse.