What is an inventory stock audit?
An inventory stock audit is an independent verification of physical stock held by a business — including raw materials, work-in-progress, finished goods, stores and spares — against book records, ERP data, and stock registers. It checks quantity, quality, valuation, and location of inventory at a given date.
How often should inventory be audited?
A full physical verification is typically done at least once a year for statutory audit purposes. High-value or fast-moving inventory is often audited monthly or quarterly through cycle counts. Banks usually require stock audits half-yearly or annually for working capital facilities.
What is a bank stock audit?
A bank stock audit is an independent audit conducted on behalf of a lender to verify the inventory and receivables offered as security for working capital limits. It checks drawing power, valuation, insurance, hypothecation, and borrower compliance with sanction terms.
How is inventory valued during an audit?
Inventory is generally valued at lower of cost or net realisable value as per AS 2 or Ind AS 2. Cost is determined using FIFO, weighted average, or specific identification methods. Auditors verify cost components, allocation of overheads, and adjustments for damaged or obsolete stock.
How are differences between book and physical stock treated?
Variances are first investigated for errors in posting, units of measure, location mix-ups, or pending entries. Genuine shortages and excesses are quantified, approved by management, and adjusted in books with appropriate disclosures and provisioning where required.
What documents and data are required for a stock audit?
Typical requirements include item master, location master, stock ledgers, ERP stock reports, recent purchase and sales records, GRN and dispatch documents, valuation working, slow-moving and obsolete stock list, and physical count sheets prepared by the company.
Who can conduct an inventory stock audit?
Inventory stock audits are typically conducted by Chartered Accountants, Cost Accountants, or qualified inventory auditors. For bank stock audits, the auditor is usually empanelled with the lender. Internal teams may carry out cycle counts, but independent verification is recommended for assurance.