Effective warehouse storage management is crucial for controlling logistics costs. The ACBUY Spreadsheet template is designed to help you meticulously record storage duration and associated fees, enabling data-driven decisions to minimize expenses and optimize your supply chain.
Why Track Storage Time and Costs?
Without clear tracking, storage costs can quickly erode profit margins. Key benefits include:
- Cost Visibility:
- Inventory Velocity Analysis:
- Negotiation Power:
- Process Optimization:
Key Columns for the ACBUY Tracking Spreadsheet
A well-structured spreadsheet is the foundation. Consider these essential data points:
| Column Header | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Date | Date the goods were received into the warehouse. | 2023-10-26 |
| SKU / Item ID | Unique identifier for the stored product. | ACB-10287 |
| Storage Start Date | Date from which storage fees begin to accrue. | 2023-10-27 |
| Daily/Weekly Storage Fee | The cost rate charged by the warehouse. | $0.85 per day |
| Date Shipped Out | Date the item left storage (for calculating total days). | 2023-11-16 |
| Total Storage Days | Calculated field: (Ship Out Date - Start Date). | 20 days |
| Total Storage Cost | Calculated field: (Total Days * Daily Fee). | $17.00 |
| Status | Current status (e.g., In Storage, Shipped, On Hold). | Shipped |
How to Implement and Use Your Tracker
Step 1: Setup and Data Entry
Create your spreadsheet using the columns above. Populate it with data from warehouse receiving reports and contracts. Automate calculations=DATEDIF(StartDate, EndDate, "D")
Step 2: Regular Updates and Reviews
Update the "Date Shipped Out" and "Status" columns daily or weekly. Implement a weekly review process
Step 3: Analysis and Action
Use pivot tables or filters to:
- Sort items by Total Storage Cost
- Filter by StatusTotal Storage Days
- Calculate average storage time and cost per product category.
Turning Data into Savings: Optimization Strategies
Your tracking data is worthless without action. Here’s how to use it:
- Renegotiate Contracts:
- Improve Forecasting:
- Prioritize Fulfillment:
- Set Alerts:
Conclusion
The ACBUY Spreadsheet