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Logistics & Transportation

Simultaneous Wall-to-Wall Inventory Across 18 Distribution Centers for National 3PL

Coordinated multi-site inventory execution delivering 99.7% accuracy across 4.2 million SKUs in 72 hours with zero operational disruption

18
Distribution Centers
4.2M
SKUs Counted
99.7%
Accuracy Achieved
72hrs
Execution Window

Client Overview

A leading third-party logistics provider operating 18 distribution centers across the United States, managing inventory for over 200 retail and e-commerce clients. The company handles high-velocity consumer goods, seasonal merchandise, and omnichannel fulfillment operations.

With annual throughput exceeding $2.8 billion in inventory value, the client required simultaneous physical inventory counts across all facilities to meet year-end financial reporting deadlines while maintaining continuous operations for critical clients.

Project Specifications

Locations
18 facilities across 12 states
Inventory Scope
4.2M SKUs, 8.7M total units
Total Square Footage
6.8 million sq ft combined
Team Deployed
247 inventory specialists
Timeline
72-hour execution window

The Challenge

Simultaneous Execution

All 18 facilities required synchronized counting to provide a single point-in-time snapshot for consolidated financial reporting, with strict deadline adherence for SEC filing requirements.

Continuous Operations

Critical clients required uninterrupted fulfillment operations during the count period, necessitating sophisticated zone-based counting methodologies and real-time inventory freezes.

Complex WMS Integration

Multiple warehouse management systems across facilities with varying data structures, requiring custom integration protocols and real-time variance reporting capabilities.

Audit Trail Requirements

SOX compliance mandated comprehensive documentation, segregation of duties, independent verification protocols, and complete audit trail for all count activities and adjustments.

Our Solution

1

Strategic Planning & Coordination

Developed comprehensive project plan with site-specific execution strategies, resource allocation models, and contingency protocols. Conducted pre-count site assessments at all 18 locations to identify operational constraints, high-risk areas, and critical client requirements.

  • Customized counting methodologies for each facility based on layout, inventory characteristics, and operational requirements
  • Established centralized command center for real-time coordination and issue resolution across all sites
  • Deployed 247 trained inventory specialists with site-specific orientation and SOX compliance training
2

Advanced Technology Deployment

Implemented enterprise-grade mobile counting platform with real-time synchronization, automated variance detection, and integrated WMS connectivity. Custom API integrations enabled seamless data exchange with multiple warehouse management systems.

  • RFID and barcode scanning technology for rapid, accurate data capture with built-in validation rules
  • Real-time dashboard providing executive visibility into progress, accuracy metrics, and variance trends
  • Automated exception reporting triggering immediate investigation of high-value or high-variance items
3

Zone-Based Counting Methodology

Implemented sophisticated zone control system allowing continuous operations in non-count areas while maintaining inventory integrity. Dynamic zone scheduling optimized resource utilization and minimized operational impact.

  • Electronic zone locks preventing inventory movement during active counting with automated release protocols
  • Coordinated with warehouse operations to sequence counting around critical fulfillment activities
  • Real-time communication system ensuring all stakeholders aware of zone status and access restrictions
4

Quality Assurance & Compliance

Executed multi-tiered quality control process with independent verification, statistical sampling, and comprehensive audit trail documentation. All procedures designed to meet SOX compliance requirements and external audit standards.

  • Blind recounts on 15% of inventory with segregation of duties between count teams
  • 100% verification of high-value items and all variances exceeding established thresholds
  • Complete documentation package including count sheets, variance reports, and resolution tracking

Results & Impact

99.7%
Overall Accuracy Rate

Exceeded industry benchmark of 98.5% with only 12,600 variance items across 4.2M SKUs counted

$8.4M
Inventory Adjustments

Identified and documented inventory variances totaling $8.4M, with $6.2M in overages and $2.2M in shortages

72hrs
On-Time Completion

All 18 facilities completed within planned 72-hour window, meeting critical financial reporting deadline

Zero
Operational Disruptions

Maintained 100% on-time fulfillment for critical clients throughout entire count period

100%
SOX Compliance

Complete audit trail documentation with no findings during external audit review

18/18
Sites Synchronized

Perfect coordination across all facilities providing accurate point-in-time inventory snapshot

JM
Jennifer Martinez
Chief Financial Officer

"The complexity of coordinating simultaneous inventory counts across 18 facilities while maintaining operations was daunting. The team's meticulous planning, advanced technology, and flawless execution delivered results that exceeded our expectations. The 99.7% accuracy rate and zero operational disruptions were critical to meeting our financial reporting deadlines and maintaining client trust."

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