Leltárfolyam

Leltárfolyam, often translated as inventory flow, refers to the systematic process of tracking and valuing inventory as it moves through a business. This encompasses the stages from acquiring raw materials or finished goods to their eventual sale or consumption. The chosen inventory flow method significantly impacts a company's cost of goods sold (COGS) and its reported net income, particularly during periods of changing prices.

There are several common inventory flow assumptions used in accounting. The first-in, first-out (FIFO) method assumes that the oldest inventory items are sold first. This generally results in COGS reflecting the cost of older inventory, while the ending inventory is valued at the most recent purchase prices. Conversely, the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method assumes that the newest inventory items are sold first. This leads to COGS reflecting the cost of more recent inventory, with the ending inventory valued at older prices. While LIFO is permitted under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), it is not allowed under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

Another common method is the weighted-average cost method, which calculates an average cost for all inventory items available for sale. This average cost is then used to determine both COGS and the value of the ending inventory. The specific identification method tracks the actual cost of each individual inventory item. This method is highly accurate but is typically only practical for businesses dealing with unique, high-value items like automobiles or custom-made goods. The choice of leltárfolyam method is an accounting policy decision that must be applied consistently from period to period.