5 min read

FEFO vs FIFO: How to Handle Expiry in Your Warehouse

Understand the difference between FEFO and FIFO inventory rotation methods and when to use each for expiry-sensitive inventory.

WarePulse Team

November 20, 2024

FEFOFIFOExpiry Management

If you manage perishable inventory, FIFO and FEFO are not interchangeable. The rotation rule you choose directly affects waste, compliance, and customer satisfaction.

FIFO

FIFO ships the oldest received stock first. It is simple and works well when shelf life is consistent or expiry is not a concern.

FEFO

FEFO ships the soonest-expiring stock first. It requires expiry tracking at receiving, but it is the right choice for food, pharma, cosmetics, and similar goods.

Decision rule

Use FIFO for non-perishable stock and FEFO for expiry-sensitive items. Many warehouses use both: FEFO for regulated products and FIFO for the rest.

Tags:FEFO FIFO Expiry Management Food & Beverage Lot Tracking

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