Articles in this section

How to Choose a Cycle Count Type

Updated

ShipHero's cycle count feature lets you build custom counts based on your business needs. Each cycle count is a list of SKUs or locations you want counted.

For an overview of cycle counting benefits and how counts are structured, see Understanding Cycle Counting in ShipHero.

Cycle Count Types at a Glance

Use this table to quickly match a cycle count type to what you're trying to accomplish.

Cycle Count Type Advantages Disadvantages
Locations
  • Confirms the accuracy of a location.
  • Catches items that shouldn't be in a location.
  • Sort by location type (bins, pallets, etc.) or location prefix.
  • Scan in and add an unexpected SKU found in the location.
  • Requires counting all items in the location, not just specific SKUs.
  • Cannot sort by a particular customer, since one location may hold SKUs for multiple customers.
Items
  • Very flexible. Counts a specific SKU.
  • Good for counting SKUs tied to a particular customer.
  • Tag SKUs and count by tag.
  • Schedule counts by tag, such as monthly for high-sellers, quarterly for medium-sellers, and yearly for slow sellers (similar to ABC counting).
  • Only counts the assigned SKU when sent to a location, not the entire location.
  • Does not confirm whether the bin as a whole is accurate.
  • Will not catch a SKU stored in a location it isn't assigned to. Use a Locations cycle count for that.
  • Sends the counter only to locations already assigned to that SKU.
Items Flagged for Recount
  • Very focused. Only counts SKUs that need a recount.
  • You can assign a manager or experienced user to these counts.
  • Requires two consecutive matching counts before ShipHero updates the on-hand quantity.
  • Only counts SKUs already part of the cycle, not the entire location.
  • Does not confirm whether the bin as a whole is accurate.

Related to

More Resources

  • ShipHero Public API

    Connect your tools and AI agents directly to ShipHero with the Public API. Build powerful integrations, automate workflows, and tap into real-time data using the AI tools you prefer, with the option for secure, read-only access for AI-driven insights without added risk.

  • ShipHero Academy

    Explore ShipHero Academy for certifications, deep-dive training, and expert-led courses on WMS and fulfillment. Build your expertise and help your team operate at a higher level.

  • Change Log

    Stay up to date with the latest improvements across ShipHero. The Change Log gives you a clear view of new features, enhancements, and fixes as they roll out—so you always know what’s new and what’s better.