How to Track Consumables in Sortly By Quantity or Item

In Sortly, you can track consumables like paint, gravel, fabric, or chemicals in two main ways. Which one fits depends on whether you just need a running total, or you need to trace each individual unit.

Two ways to track consumables

Compare both methods to see which fits how you work:

Method Example Choose this if
By Quantity or Volume 550 lbs of Gravel tracked as one inventory item You only care about the total amount left, want a simple setup, and want to minimize your item count
By Individual Item
(Unique QR Codes)
Each 55 lb box of Siding has its own unique QR code Each unit needs its own QR code, you want to track exactly which item went to which job, or you need compliance or accountability at the item level

Tracking by quantity or volume

Tracking by individual item

Next steps

👉 Ready to set up either method? Follow the step-by-step guide:

Frequently asked questions

Can I use both methods in the same inventory?

Yes. Tracking method is set per item, so you can use quantity tracking for some consumables and unique QR codes for others in the same account.

Do I need unique QR codes for compliance tracking?

If you need to prove which specific unit was used on which job, or track accountability at the item level, individual item tracking with unique QR codes is the better fit.

Can I switch methods later if my needs change?

You can set up a new item using the other method going forward. Existing items keep their original tracking setup unless you rebuild them.

Questions? Please contact our Support Team.

Was this article helpful?
1 out of 1 found this helpful