What we prepare
Most audit problems in a warehouse are predictable: missing documents, unexplained adjustments, unclear stock status and staff who are unsure what to show. Preparation addresses each of them while there is still time.
- Stock: clear labelling, separated damaged and returned goods, tidy locations before count day
- Records: open documents closed, adjustments explained, write-offs with approvals on file
- Reconciliations: system balances agreed with recent counts and accounting records
- Evidence files: policies, user lists, count instructions and prior findings in one place
- People: storekeepers and accountants briefed on the process and their role
A practice review before the real one
We run a short mock audit using the kind of tests an external or internal auditor typically performs: a sample count from the listing and from the floor, a review of recent adjustments, a cut-off test around the period end and a look at access rights. The result is a list of issues ranked by how likely they are to be raised and how hard they are to fix.
Then we work through the list with your team. Some items take an afternoon, such as relabelling a zone or filing missing approvals. Others, such as a long-standing unexplained difference, need investigation, and we help document the explanation so it can be presented clearly.
Different audiences, same principle
External auditors, group internal audit and lenders ask different questions. We tailor the preparation to the audience and, where possible, to their stated requests. The principle stays the same: be able to show, quickly and with documents, that the stock figure is supported.
We do not take the place of your auditors or speak for them. Specific audit, accounting or regulatory requirements should be confirmed with your auditor or local accountant, and we build the preparation around what they confirm.
Common gaps found during audit readiness work
When we run a practice review, a few gaps appear again and again. Count instructions exist but were not followed on the last count, so results cannot be relied on. Adjustments are correct but lack the investigation notes that would explain them. Stock received on the last day of the period was entered in the next one. Key staff know the processes well but have never been asked to walk an outsider through them, and struggle to show the evidence under time pressure.
Each of these gaps is easier and cheaper to close before the audit than to explain during it. Closing them also shortens the audit itself, because auditors who find well-organised evidence tend to need fewer extra samples and fewer follow-up questions.
What you receive
- D1Mock audit results with issues ranked by risk
- D2Action plan with owners and target dates set by your team
- D3Organised evidence file for auditors or reviewers
- D4Briefing for warehouse and accounting staff
- D5Readiness summary in English for head office
Common questions
Q1How far in advance should we start?
The earlier the better, because some issues need time to investigate. Contact us as soon as the audit or review date is known.
Q2Can you be present during the actual audit?
We can support your team during the audit if you wish, while the auditors remain fully independent of us.
Q3Is this only for year-end audits?
No. It works for any planned review, including head-office visits, lender checks and internal audits.