Stock count app with barcode scanning
When a spreadsheet becomes slow, use Mobile Inventory to map a clean CSV, scan barcodes, count offline, review photo counts for clear items, and export a clean result.
This page is for teams that already have a stock list and need a safer handoff from spreadsheet columns to phone-based counting on iOS, Android, or web.
Where the app helps
A phone-based count reduces manual entry and keeps the counter focused on the shelf instead of the spreadsheet.
- Import clean locations and products
- Scan item barcodes with a phone
- Work without a stable connection
- Review photo counts for loose identical items
- Export results to Excel or CSV
Prepare the import file
The best app workflow starts with clear headers, one stable product identifier, and a location-import handoff when counters count by place. Use the template generator and barcode readiness checker before upload.
- Map SKU or Barcode as the identifier
- Use Product name, Unit, Category, and Book quantity when available
- Import one clean Location name row per storage place before products when counters count by place
- Keep Location code, label status, setup verified at, owner, observations, and import result together
- Use CSV for very large lists
Export after the count
After counters submit quantities, export the count results and variance report for review.
- Counted quantity
- Expected quantity
- Variance
- Notes and reason codes
Workflow
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Step1 | ActionPrepare the CSV | DetailsUse one row per product, and prepare a separate Location import handoff first when storage places are not loaded. |
| Step2 | ActionChoose import flow | DetailsUse Import locations for storage places, Import products for a new inventory, Import & Update Products for existing catalogs, or Import transactions for stock activity. |
| Step3 | ActionScan and count | DetailsScan barcodes at the shelf, enter the physical quantity, or use reviewed photo counts for one visible object type when the device is online. |
| Step4 | ActionVerify and export | DetailsCheck mapped fields and counted rows, then download Excel or CSV for reconciliation. |
Stock count glossary
A stock keeping unit: the internal item code used to identify one product or variant.
A scannable code such as UPC, EAN, or GTIN that should point to one item or package.
The difference between expected quantity and counted quantity after a stock count.
A recurring count of selected items, locations, or categories instead of the whole inventory.
A count where counters do not see the expected quantity while entering the physical quantity.
The point when stock movements are paused or controlled so the count matches system data.
Download tools
FAQ
Which Mobile Inventory import should I use?
Use Import locations for storage places, Import products for a new or empty inventory, Import & Update Products to change existing products, and Import transactions when the file is stock activity for products that already exist.
Can I count without internet?
Mobile Inventory is designed for stock count work where warehouses, stores, and back rooms may have poor connectivity.
Do I need a separate barcode scanner?
No. You can use a phone camera for many barcode workflows.
Can I count from a photo?
Yes, for clear photos with one main object type. Review the counted points before saving, and keep barcode or manual counting ready for offline areas.
Can several people count at the same time?
Yes. Team counting is one of the reasons to move beyond a single spreadsheet.