How should transfers between stores be documented?

• A. With a transfer note including item details, quantities, batch/expiry, from/to, date, and signatories.
• B. With a purchase order.
• C. With a receiving acknowledgement.
• D. With a delivery challan.

Answer: (A)

Transfers between stores should be documented with a transfer note that lists each item being moved, its quantity, batch and expiry (where applicable), the origin and destination stores, the transfer date, and the signatories responsible for the move. This creates a complete audit trail and enables both stores to reconcile inventory accurately, verify batch/expiry for safety and recalls, and assign accountability for the movement. A purchase order is for external procurement and doesn’t capture the internal transfer specifics like origin, destination, or the transfer date and signatories. A receiving acknowledgement notes receipt but doesn’t document the transfer details or authorize the movement. A delivery challan is typically used for goods in transit but may not provide full item-level data and accountability needed for inter-store transfers. Therefore, the transfer note is the most appropriate and comprehensive documentation for inter-store stock movements.