Inventory Control vs Inventory Management: Key Comparisons

Ever wondered why some businesses seem to always have the right products in stock while others struggle with empty shelves or overflowing inventory? The answer lies in understanding inventory control vs inventory management. Both of them are necessary for businesses to thrive, but they serve different roles in optimizing operations.

Inventory control and inventory management are often used interchangeably, despite their distinct roles. In this guide, we’ll clarify how these two concepts differ, how they complement each other, and how you can leverage both to streamline your processes and boost efficiency.

What is Inventory Control?

Inventory control refers to the process of managing the movement and storage of inventory to make sure that a business has the right amount of stock at the right time. This involves tracking inventory levels, organizing storage, and maintaining a balance between demand and supply. 

The goal of inventory control is to minimize waste, reduce holding costs, and avoid both stockouts (when stock runs out) and excess inventory. It also ensures product visibility at every stage.

For example, an eCommerce business sells handmade candles. The business owner uses an inventory control system to track how many candles are in stock. The owner also organizes the storage of raw materials and finished products in clearly labeled bins, which improves accuracy and minimizes time spent searching for items.

That way, the business owner is able to monitor and organize his inventory properly.

What is Inventory Management?

Inventory management, on the other hand, is the broader strategy that encompasses all aspects of inventory oversight. It includes everything from purchasing and stocking to tracking inventory, fulfilling orders, and maintaining inventory levels.

A well-thought-out inventory management system (IMS) involves:

• Demand forecasting
• Supplier management
• Stock categorization
• Order fulfillment optimization

Inventory management is all about the processes that keep products moving smoothly from suppliers to the warehouse and, eventually, to the customer, which overall contributes to operational efficiency.

Now, the candle business owner uses a responsive inventory management system with demand forecasting to predict which products will be in high demand during the holiday season. Then, he coordinates this with the suppliers, based on this forecast. 

Simply saying, it is the inventory strategy that you implement to ensure that the right products are ordered, stocked, and available for customers at the right time.

What’s the Difference Between Inventory Management and Inventory Control

We know that the terms may sound similar, but they serve distinct functions. To make things clearer, let’s break it down into key areas.

In short, inventory control focuses more on the physical aspects of warehouse management, while inventory management is the one that oversees the whole process. 

How Inventory Control Complements Inventory Management

Now, inventory management won’t work without inventory control and vice versa. These two systems work hand-in-hand to ensure smooth operations and strategic growth. 

Here’s how.

Inventory control focuses on the day-to-day tasks, such as tracking stock levels in real time and managing the movement of goods in and out of the warehouse. 

On the other hand, inventory management provides the strategic framework by aligning stock levels with business goals and customer demand, forecasting future demand, and planning for replenishment. 

Inventory control feeds real-time data into inventory management, which helps improve overall stock accuracy, better predict demand, and optimize the reordering process.

Without it, inventory management would lack the necessary real-time insights, leading to inefficient decision-making and stock imbalances. Together, these systems ensure that you have enough stocks while balancing daily operations and long-term growth.

Challenges in Inventory Control and Inventory Management

However, even with the best systems in place, both inventory control and inventory management come with their own set of challenges. 

• Stockouts and Overstocks: Too little stock results in missed sales opportunities, while too much stock increases holding costs and the risk of obsolescence. Rely on demand forecasting and just-in-time (JIT) strategies to prevent overstocking or understocking.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: Global events or transport issues can lead to shortages or delays. Diversify suppliers and have contingency plans to help mitigate these issues.
• Maintaining Accuracy and Real-Time Visibility: Discrepancies between actual and recorded stock can arise due to human error or system failure. Solutions like RFID, barcode scanning, and cloud-based systems ensure precise tracking and visibility.
• Managing Lead Times and Supplier Reliability: Unpredictable suppliers can affect inventory levels and ordering strategies. Work with reliable suppliers and maintain buffer stock to manage delays effectively.

Keep on track with these challenges, so you’re one step ahead of the game.

Which Software Should You Choose?

So to say, inventory control and inventory management are easier to manage with technology. Look for features like real-time tracking, demand forecasting, sales channel integration, and detailed reporting.

But before picking a software, choose which type of inventory software solution matches your business needs:

• Inventory Management Platforms: These are standalone solutions focused on tracking stock levels, managing reorders, and providing data-driven insights. They’re ideal for small to mid-sized businesses looking for a cost-effective way to maintain accurate inventory records.
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: ERPs like NetSuite provide an all-in-one solution that integrates inventory with accounting, HR, and customer management. These systems are suitable for larger organizations seeking centralized control over multiple business functions.
• Specialized Control Tools: These systems are specifically designed for warehouse control, picking optimization, or demand planning. They are often used to augment existing platforms with high-performance capabilities in key operational areas.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, scalable solution that delivers real-time performance and operational excellence, ShipHero can help you optimize your fulfillment process and drive business growth. It comes with native NetSuite integration, real-time synchronization, optimized pick routes, and robust analytics for scalability and operational excellence. 

That way, you can streamline your operations and focus on what matters most, which is to grow your business.

Get a free quote today.

Key Takeaways

• Inventory control focuses on daily tasks and tactical decisions, while inventory management covers long-term strategies for stocking, forecasting, and order fulfillment.
• Both are needed to improve operational efficiency, minimize costs, and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Technology plays a key role in integrating these functions to enhance visibility and accuracy in inventory processes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Technology Integrate Inventory Control and Inventory Management?

Yes. Modern inventory software like ShipHero integrates both inventory control and inventory management systems. This integration allows seamless communication between the systems, which helps provide real-time updates and maintain accurate data.

Can a Business Use Inventory Control without Inventory Management?

It’s true that inventory control can function independently in a smaller business or simpler operations, but you need an inventory management strategy for long-term success, growth, and scalability.

Can Inventory Control Prevent Stock Discrepancies?

Yes, inventory control can greatly reduce stock discrepancies by improving the tracking and monitoring of products. However, it’s most effective when supported by an inventory management strategy that handles forecasting, procurement, and sales.