What will I be doing?

Computerized cash registers in stores not only add up the total of what you buy, they keep track of what has been sold. They manage the store’s inventory and tell the owner what needs to be ordered. However, most stores still need to take what’s called a physical inventory every few months to a year. This inventory is done by people who walk through the store, physically counting the numbers of each item on the shelves. If you have some experience doing this work, consider operating an inventory service from your home.

There are about 1,000 full-time inventory services in the U.S.—some hire independent contractors rather than employees. You can operate your business as an independent contractor or by hiring others to do the work.

What will I need to start?

Few skills are required for taking physical inventory. You must be accurate, conscientious and careful. You can gain experience by offering your services to local retailers willing to train you. Depending on the type of inventory you manage, you may need hand-held computers or bar code scanners to count and keep track of items by product number. Sometimes the warehouse or retailer will provide these tools. But you may be able to earn a higher income if you supply your own.

Who will my customers be?

Your customers will be retail and wholesale businesses with inventory. Because businesses have different operating or fiscal years, the work may be year-round with high and low points. Your customers will identify when and why they need a physical inventory taken. Some proprietors of inventory services travel. One couple operates a successful service from a motorhome. Clients are contracted a few months in advance. The couple arrives at the site, takes physical inventory, enjoys some time off in a new town, then moves on to the next contracted job.