Allocate only confirmed sellable retail units to channels. Keep inspection holds, samples and damaged units outside the available-to-promise number until a named owner releases them.
Define the unit of account
Use the exact SKU and retail selling unit, not the magnetic piece count on a box. Record purchase order, pack version, received cartons and units per carton. A mixed carton needs a SKU-level count before allocation.
Separate stock from availability
Make four columns: received retail units, inspection or damage holds, samples and promotional units, and units already committed. Available-to-promise units equal received units minus those categories, with each counted once. Leave disputed counts on hold.
Assign stock to channels
Allocate remaining units by a written priority, such as confirmed wholesale orders, store display and ecommerce replenishment. Record the owner and review date. This prevents the same carton from being promised twice.
Reconcile before release
Compare the allocation sheet with the packing list and the pre-shipment inspection record. A held unit becomes sellable only after its issue is closed. Request current SKU-level stock data.
Buyer action checklist
- Record received retail units by exact SKU and pack revision.
- Mark holds, samples, promotions and commitments with evidence.
- Calculate available units and investigate a negative result.
- Assign units to channels and review after each release or return.
SKU or offer [ ] · buyer task [ ] · source [ ] · open issue [ ] · owner [ ] · release decision [ ].
FAQ
Can I count inspection holds as saleable stock?
Keep held units outside available stock until the issue is closed and release is recorded.
Should I allocate by piece count?
Allocate by retail selling unit and SKU; component pieces serve a different task.