How to keep track of parts inventory in your auto repair shop
For: Auto repair shops, tire shops, quick lubes and parts stores · Updated October 25, 2026
Short answer
Shop inventory works when it updates itself: it goes up when you record the supplier's invoice and down when a part is used in a work order or sold over the counter. If it depends on someone counting at the end of the day, it falls apart within a week. Add a minimum stock to your fast movers to know what to reorder.
What to record for each part
- The name you search for ("front brake pads Aveo"), code and brand.
- Unit (each, liter, set).
- Cost and sale price.
- Current stock and minimum stock.
The three movements that matter
- Purchase: recording the supplier's invoice raises stock and updates the cost.
- Use in an order: parts used are deducted when the vehicle is handed back.
- Counter sale: deducted as soon as you take payment.
Supplier accounts payable
If you buy on credit, record the due date. You'll know what you owe, what's overdue and what's due this week, instead of finding out when the supplier calls.
How Sherom does it
- Supplier purchases raise stock and update the cost.
- Parts used in orders and counter sales are deducted automatically; stock never goes negative.
- Low-stock alerts and accounts payable with overdue and due-this-week totals.
- You can load products by telling the assistant: "add 10 Bosch filters at $8".
- The WhatsApp bot tells customers whether a part is in stock and its price.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to count my whole inventory to start?
No. Start with the 20 or 30 parts you use most and add the rest as you buy them.