Multi-Branch Service Center Inventory: One System, All Locations
Multi-branch service center inventory works when each location is a separate stock location in one system, with transfers between locations recorded as movements, and the same job-card and invoicing process at every branch. One system gives you visibility and control without spreadsheets or duplicate data.
In this article
- How to set up inventory for multiple workshop locations
- Making every branch follow the same parts and invoicing process
- Transferring parts between branches without losing track
- One system, clear locations, one process
How do I set up inventory for multiple workshop locations?
Create a stock location for each branch. All receipts, issues, and counts happen at that location. When you need to move stock from Branch A to Branch B, you do a stock transfer (out from A, in at B) so quantities stay correct. Reports can show stock by location or consolidated, so you can reorder and plan at both branch and group level.
| View | Use |
|---|---|
| Stock by branch | Reorder per location; see what each branch has |
| Consolidated stock | Group-level planning; total availability across branches |
| Transfers in / out | Audit trail; who moved what, when |
| Jobs and invoices per branch | Revenue and usage by location; consistent process everywhere |
How do I make sure every branch follows the same parts and invoicing process?
Use the same software and the same rules everywhere: parts are issued to job cards only, and invoices are generated from job cards. Training and process matter, but when the system only allows "issue to job" and "invoice from job," behavior stays consistent.
What's the best way to transfer parts between branches without losing track?
Use a formal transfer: create a transfer document, reduce stock at the sending location, and receive at the receiving location. Both sides confirm so the ledger stays accurate. For more on scaling this across many branches, read scaling a multi-branch service center.
One system, all locations: visibility, control, and the same disciplined process at every branch.