Technical Explanation: Inventory Velocity & Cash Conversion
Inventory turnover is a fundamental operational KPI that measures how many times an organization sells and replaces its stock over a defined timeframe. A higher turnover implies robust sales, efficient procurement, and minimal capital trapped in dead stock.
Complementing the turnover ratio, Days Sales of Inventory (DSI)—also known as Days Inventory Outstanding (DIO)—converts this velocity into the direct time required to deplete current warehouse holdings.
How to Use This Calculator
- Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): Enter total direct material, labor, and allocated overhead costs for the period.
- Beginning Inventory: Stock valuation at the start of the timeframe.
- Ending Inventory: Stock valuation at the conclusion of the timeframe.
- Period Length: Choose 365 days (annual), 90 days (quarterly), 30 days (monthly), or enter custom days.
- Benchmark Comparison: Compare your DSI to industry target metrics to evaluate working capital health.
High vs. Low Turnover: Finding the Equilibrium
While high turnover typically signifies lean operations, excessively high turnover might indicate inadequate safety stock, risking stockouts and lost revenue. Conversely, low turnover indicates excessive carrying costs, risk of component obsolescence, and tied-up liquidity.