If you are using Warehouse Management functionality, it could be helpful to learn how to handle aged (old) stock in Linnworks.


Aged stock management refers to monitoring, reviewing, and disposing of older inventory items that have been in storage for an extended period of time. 


Managing aged stock in a warehouse allows you to:

  • Avoid obsolescence & spoilage
  • Optimize storage space
  • Maintain inventory accuracy
  • Minimize carrying costs
  • Avoid financial losses


Currently, there is no dedicated setting that allows handling aged inventory in Linnworks. However, you can use the "first in, first out" (FIFO) setting in the Warehouse Management to track when items were added to your inventory and see how old your stock is.


Enable the FIFO setting

To enable the FIFO setting for managing aged stock, follow the steps below:

  1. Go to Settings > General Settings > Warehouse Management tab.
  2. Scroll down to the Warehouses section of the screen. 
  3. Click on the Settings button for the respective warehouse-managed location.
  4. The Warehouse Settings pop-up window will open where you need to:
    1. Enable FIFO. 
    2. Select the Batch Format from the drop-down menu.
    3. Ensure that the below settings are disabled:
      • Use purchase order number as batch number
      • Use warehouse transfer reference as batch number
    4. Click Save.
  5. Once the above is done and you add stock to a warehouse-managed location, Linnworks will record the date it was added as a Batch Number.

Manage aged stock

You can use the Query Data report on Inventory Batching to find out about your old (aged) inventory items. Then, you can export that information into a CSV file. Using this file, you can manage your aged stock and make changes in Linnworks if required.


Managing aged stock can involve several processes, like:

  • Monitoring stock age & shelf life
  • Regularly reviewing & evaluating inventory
  • Implementing strategies to dispose or sell older items
  • Re-evaluating purchasing and stocking strategies
  • Maintaining accurate inventory records
  • Regularly rotating stock to prevent obsolescence