What items should not be placed in operating stock?

Items that should not be placed in operating stock include ones that are not intended for ongoing operational use. Partially used bench stock items, while they may seem useful, often do not fit neatly into the operational stock category. Operating stock is typically reserved for items that are ready for immediate use in operations, where consistent availability is essential.

Partially used items can create inefficiencies in tracking inventory levels, lead to potential waste or obsolescence, and complicate stock management practices. These items might also have limited usefulness and could disrupt the flow of operations if they are not clearly defined or if their remaining quantities are uncertain. Thus, they should be managed separately to ensure that operating stock remains efficient and reliable.

On the other hand, returned materials from repairs, items used for non-operational purposes, and surplus office supplies can be categorized differently and may have specific handling instructions that do not impede the operational flow or inventory management practices.