Office guide
How to Use Inventory Reorder Planner
A reorder plan estimates when and how much to replenish using demand, lead time, safety stock, current inventory, and open orders. The calculation is only as dependable as the demand and lead-time assumptions.
Open the Inventory Reorder PlannerWhat to prepare
A few reliable inputs make the first result easier to review.
- Average daily demand based on a relevant period
- Typical supplier lead time and an intentional safety-stock policy
- Current usable inventory plus confirmed open orders
How to Use Inventory Reorder Planner
- Set the location and review period
- Add each item with demand, lead time, safety stock, inventory on hand, and open orders
- Calculate the plan and inspect the reorder point and suggested quantity
- Review unusual recommendations before sending any purchase request
Worked example
If an item uses 8 units per day, has a 5-day lead time, and needs 20 units of safety stock, its basic reorder point is 60 units. Current inventory and open orders determine whether replenishment is needed now.
Review the result
Compare recommendations with recent stockouts, seasonal demand, supplier reliability, minimum order quantities, and storage capacity. Those operational constraints may require a different order than the simple calculation.
Practical tips
- Use the same unit for demand, stock, and orders
- Update open orders before every review
- Separate obsolete or damaged stock from usable inventory
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using peak demand as an average without explanation
- Treating promised lead time as guaranteed
- Ordering the suggested amount without checking case-pack or minimum quantities
Build it in your browser
The free Inventory Reorder Planner processes entries locally in your browser. Review the generated draft against source information and any policy that applies before sharing it.