Purpose Statement
Packaging types define how inventory items are grouped, measured, and tracked within the Assets module (e.g., Each, Box, Case). Proper configuration ensures accurate quantity tracking, streamlined receiving, and consistent reporting across your inventory system.
Background Information
Packaging types act as the unit structure for inventory items. Instead of tracking every item individually, packaging types allow you to define how items are stored and counted.
Common Examples:
- Each (single unit)
- Box (multiple items per box)
- Case (multiple boxes or bulk quantity)
- Pallet (large-scale storage)
Why Packaging Types Matter:
- Standardize how inventory is counted and displayed
- Enable accurate receiving and restocking workflows
- Support reporting consistency across departments
- Reduce manual conversion errors
Packaging types are assigned when creating or managing inventory items and directly impact how quantities are recorded and updated.
Required Permissions
Users will typically need:
- Assets Module access
- Inventory Configuration or Admin permissions
- Ability to create/edit system settings
Video
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Access Packaging Types
- Navigate to: Assets > Setup > Inventory
- Select Packaging
2. Create or Edit a Packaging Type
- Click New Packaging to add new packaging types
- Enter the following:
- Name (e.g., Box, Case, Each)
- Description (optional, but recommended for clarity)
- Save changes
Warning:
It is highly recommended to include descriptive details such as “Box of 10” or “Case – 25 units per case.” This improves clarity for users and ensures accurate inventory tracking, receiving, and reporting.
3. Manage Packaging Types
- Edit: Select a packaging type and update its details as needed
- Delete: Remove unused packaging types (if not currently assigned to inventory items)
- Download: Download the packaging type list into a .csv file for local storage and management
How Packaging Types Are Used
Packaging types are applied when creating and managing inventory items.
Key Impacts:
- Inventory Item Setup:
Determines how quantities are defined (e.g., 1 Case = 24 Each) - Receiving Workflows:
Users receive inventory based on packaging type (e.g., receiving 10 Boxes instead of 100 individual units) - Quantity Tracking & Reporting:
Ensures consistent measurement across reports, audits, and stock levels
For more details:
- See Creating an Inventory Item (for applying packaging types)
- See Managing Inventory Items (for ongoing inventory control)
Best Practices
- Use clear, standardized naming conventions (e.g., avoid duplicates like “Box” vs “Bx”)
- Keep packaging structures simple and intuitive
- Define packaging types before creating inventory items
- Avoid deleting packaging types that are actively in use
- Align packaging types with how items are physically stored and received
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: Why can’t I delete a packaging type?
A: It is likely assigned to one or more inventory items. Remove or reassign it before deleting.
Q: Can I change a packaging type after it’s assigned?
A: Yes, but changes may impact how quantities are displayed or calculated for associated items.
Q: What happens if packaging types are inconsistent?
A: It can lead to incorrect counts, confusion during receiving, and inaccurate reporting.
Q: Do packaging types affect reporting?
A: Yes—reports rely on packaging definitions for accurate quantity calculations.