Shipping and Receiving Clerk how-to

How to Perform a Cycle Count

Cycle counts find errors before they become big problems.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Cycle counts find errors before they become big problems. In short: print; count; record, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Print or open the count list.

  2. Count items without looking at expected quantities.

  3. Record counts.

  4. Compare with system quantities.

  5. Recount variances.

  6. Investigate and adjust as approved.

Safety reminders for shipping and receiving clerks

  • Use proper lifting and team lifts
  • Stay clear of forklift traffic
  • Chock trailers before loading or unloading
  • Keep docks and aisles clear

Purchase order (PO) · Packing list · Bill of lading (BOL) · Receiving · Cycle count · Variance: see the full shipping and receiving clerk glossary.

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