The Inventory Workspace functions almost exactly the same as the Lot Workspace, but instead of creating lots it is intended for the creation and maintenance of items.

The “Item” is the actual, physical item, represented digitally, while a “Lot” is the event tag for that item.

In an inventory system, the item is assigned a tracking number that is unique to it as soon as it is entered into the system. This Item Number is used to track the item from event to event and will never change. It is the concrete reference you can depend on for that specific item.

When you move an item to an auction, you assign an arbitrary number called a Lot Number to that item. While the background Item Number will never change, you can change this Lot Number as needed, in case it needs to be reassigned or moved to another auction.

Here’s an example:

Let’s say you have an antique typewriter; it’s worth a lot but only to the right buyer, and you’re probably going to have to put it up for auction a few times to get the right person to see it. If you make it an “Item” you’ll be able to rapidly associate it with new lots in new auctions until you find that one person who’s just crazy for antique typewriters.

On the other hand, let’s say you have a large inventory of the latest tech gadget; they sell fast, but you know you’re going to be getting a lot more in stock soon. By making it an Item, you’ll be able to regularly and reliably duplicate and manage all of the lots needed to put all of your gadgets up for auction.

Ultimately, it’s the way to organize and prepare your auctions for the future, ensuring that you can see how your whole inventory relates to your lots and auction.

The difference between the Lot Workspace and the Inventory Workspace is in the details. Literally! When you select a lot vs an item the Details Column will populate with different information fields.

The Lot Details Column:

The Item Details Column:

The Lot Details are much more detailed since the Item Details are intended to be regularly copied into new auctions. The only addition to the Details Column in the Item Workspace is the Lots tab.

The Lots Tab shows all lots this item is currently associated with.

2. Use the Manifest search box to find the manifest you want to create the lot in.

3. Next, select whether you would like to use only one of the item’s quantity or all available quantity of the given item with the Quantity drop down menu.

4. Select whether to Use Next Lot # which will use the next available lot number in the manifest, or Start at Lot # which will allow you to specify which lot number the lots created will begin with.

5. Finally, click Add Items.

6. The lots are now created.