Hiányköltség

Hiányköltség, often translated as shortage cost or stockout cost, refers to the expenses incurred by a business when it is unable to meet customer demand due to insufficient inventory. These costs can manifest in several ways, impacting both immediate sales and long-term customer relationships.

One primary component of hiányköltség is the lost profit from the immediate sale that could not be made. When a product is out of stock, the customer may choose to purchase it elsewhere or forgo the purchase altogether, resulting in a direct revenue loss for the business. Beyond lost sales, there's the cost associated with customer dissatisfaction. A customer experiencing a stockout may become frustrated and less likely to return in the future, potentially leading to a decline in repeat business and a damaged brand reputation.

Furthermore, hiányköltség can include the administrative expenses related to managing backorders, expediting shipments to replenish stock quickly, and the potential loss of customer loyalty. In some industries, particularly those with high competition or where timely delivery is critical, the impact of stockouts can be particularly severe. Businesses strive to minimize hiányköltség through effective inventory management techniques, such as accurate demand forecasting, safety stock calculations, and efficient supply chain operations.