Section 5: Cycle Counts (PC)

General

Desktop/PC

Introduction

Performing a Cycle Count using CloudBox Link on your PC or desktop. This section will guide you through completing a cycle count, updating inventory records, and reconciling discrepancies with your ERP or WMS system. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your CloudBox data stays perfectly synchronized with your business systems: accurate, compliant, and up to date.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Prepare for Cycle Counting
- If removing containers from shelves, take them down in small groups rather than one at a time to stay efficient and organized.
- Before weighing, ensure your scale is tared (set to zero).
Weigh and Scan Containers
- Place the container holding your inventory on the scale.
- Scan the CloudBox label (RFID, barcode, or QR code).
- Once the “Container Detected” screen appears, CloudBox will automatically update the inventory reading in real time.
- You can quickly move to the next container: swap, scan, and repeat.
- Each container’s updated unit or weight value is automatically saved to your CloudBox database.
Manual Entry (No Scale Needed)
- For containers where you can easily see the number of units, you don’t need to remove them from the shelf.
- Open the CloudBox mobile app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Tap the Link icon and select Continue Without Scale.
- Scan the QR code on the CloudBox label and type in the exact number of units.
- The SKU’s updated quantity will instantly sync to your CloudBox account.
- This gives you flexibility—use the scale when accuracy matters or enter counts manually for speed.
Reviewing and Reconciling Cycle Counts in the Web App
- After completing your cycle count, open the CloudBox Web App and go to Inventory → Cycle Count.
- This page lets you review your completed cycle count alongside data exported from your ERP or WMS system to identify discrepancies.
- To begin reconciliation, upload your exported inventory CSV file.
- If you used the CloudBox template, the system will automatically map all columns for you.
- If using a custom export, such as one from your ERP, WMS, or other inventory software, you’ll need to manually map each column header to match CloudBox’s structure:
  1. Name → Product or SKU name (maps to “Name” in CloudBox).
  2. Tracking ID → Serial or unique SKU identifier (CloudBox’s version of your SKU serial ID, which connects SKUs and containers).
  3. Current Weight → Only map this if you have containers tracked in weight mode (for items managed by total weight rather than units).
  4. Units → Maps to the quantity available column in your CSV.
Setting Discrepancy Tolerances
- The discrepancy threshold lets you define acceptable variance during reconciliation.
- For example, if a SKU has 20 units and you set a 10% tolerance, CloudBox will only flag discrepancies greater than 2 units.
- This feature helps account for natural shrinkage or rounding differences.
Reconciling and Exporting Results
- Once you’ve completed mapping and set your tolerance, click Start.
- CloudBox will automatically display any discrepancies between your actual counts and ERP/WMS data.
- You can then choose to reconcile, export the report, or start a new count.

Tips & Tricks

Always tare the scale before weighing containers to ensure accurate readings.
Use grouping by room or category to make large cycle counts more efficient.
If using a barcode scanner, confirm it’s properly connected or paired before starting.
Regularly export and save your cycle count reports for audit and tracking purposes.
For containers with low-value or fast-moving items, consider using unit mode for simplicity; use weight mode for bulk or variable products.
Set realistic discrepancy thresholds based on your industry’s tolerance for shrinkage or packaging variance.

Still Need Help?

If you are having trouble setting up your CloudBox Link please don't hesitate to email us at: support@cloudboxapp.com and a team member will assist you.