Free inventory tool

Find a low-stock threshold for one item.

Enter how many whole units you sold or used over a set number of days. Then add your restock time and the extra units you want to keep on hand.

Calculate a starting threshold

Use figures for one item at one location. The calculation runs in your browser; this page does not submit your inputs.

Units used or soldWhole units over the period belowDays observedCalendar days in the same periodDays to restockFrom deciding to replenish until stock arrivesExtra buffer unitsWhole units to keep if demand rises or restocking takes longer

Suggested low-stock threshold

12 units

Average daily use: 0.8 units/day
Expected use while restocking: 8 units
Extra buffer: 4 units

Round up (daily use × days to restock + buffer).

The daily and restock figures shown here are rounded for reading. The threshold uses the full calculation.

A candle maker’s example

You sold 24 candles in 30 calendar days. Making another batch takes 10 days, and you want 4 extra candles in reserve. Average daily sales are 0.8, so you expect to sell 8 while making the next batch. Add the 4 in reserve: the starting threshold is 12 candles.

Use the number as a starting point

In Countstead, enter the threshold for that item and location. The Low Stock view lists the item when its balance reaches or falls below that number. Countstead Pro can also send a local alert on this device when alerts are enabled. This calculator does not change your inventory or app settings.

Recalculate the threshold when sales pick up or deliveries take longer. This calculator rounds up to whole units, so if you track fractional units, work out a suitable quantity separately.

Common questions

Is a low-stock threshold the same as a reorder point?: Yes. Many inventory guides call this number a reorder point: the balance at which you plan the next restock. The calculation is the usual one, average daily use multiplied by the days to restock, plus a buffer that is often called safety stock.
Is this how much I should order?: No. The threshold tells you when to plan the next restock. Order quantity is a separate decision based on what you have, what is already coming, and how much you want to hold.
How do I choose a buffer?: Think about extra demand or restock delays you have seen. Choose units you can reasonably hold, then adjust the number after the next restock.
Should I use sales from every location?: Use the sales or usage for the location whose threshold you are setting. Countstead keeps a separate threshold for each item-location pair.