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Hello,

Is there a way to account for inventory in transit in the inventory valuation (ie. should be in the balance sheet).

For example, let's say I'm invoiced for €1000 on January 1st (invoice is sent when order is created and we pay upfront, before shipping).

If I receive the goods in February, currently, the inventory value on January 31st will be 0, but the purchases will be €1000.

This causes the balance sheet to have 0 inventory COGS to be -1000€ (as there is no change in inventory, which is incorrect).

I should have value of inventory on hand of 0€, but stock in transit should be 1000€ as this was already invoiced. And the COGS should be 0, not -1000€.

Thank you

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Best Answer

To properly account for inventory in transit in your inventory valuation and balance sheet, you can follow these steps:


1. Create an "Inventory in Transit" Account:

   - Set up a new account in your Chart of Accounts called "Inventory in Transit."

   - This account will track the value of goods that have been invoiced but not yet received.


2. Record the Purchase Invoice:

   - When you receive the invoice, record the purchase with a debit to "Inventory in Transit" and a credit to Accounts Payable.

   - This ensures the cost is reflected on your balance sheet as an asset, even though the goods have not yet been received.


3. Receive the Goods:

   - When the goods physically arrive, transfer the amount from "Inventory in Transit" to your regular Inventory account.

   - Create a journal entry to debit your Inventory account and credit "Inventory in Transit."


4. Inventory Valuation and Balance Sheet:

   - At the end of the period, your balance sheet will correctly reflect the €1000 in inventory as "Inventory in Transit" until the goods are received.

   - This approach keeps the Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) at 0 until the inventory is actually received and ready for use or sale.


By using this method, your financial statements will accurately reflect the value of inventory in transit and avoid the issue of showing a negative COGS.

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