In the last post we explored the setup of the unit of measure feature in QuickBooks. Multiple units of measure sets can only be created in Premier and Enterprise levels of QuickBooks. Unfortunately, this feature is not available in the Pro version.
In our review, we created a unit of measure set that would allow items to be bought or sold either individually (each), or as a case of twenty-four. We can assign the unit of measure set to multiple items, as many as would be a fit for the measures.
We used the item Standard Doorknobs before, let’s use the item Locking Interior Doorknobs.
The above graphic shows the edit window for the Locking interior doorknobs item. Notice we have edited this item in the unit of measure portion of the window. While the field was blank before, using the dropdown arrow, we have selected the Each/Case of 24 unit of measure set.
The setup for that U/M set specified that normally, we would buy in case lots and sell by each.
Once the item was selected for this purchase order, the item information filled in as normal. Only now, the normal cost is $838.80 and the U/M column shows “cs”.
Notice the down arrow in the U/M field that indicates other values can be selected from a dropdown list. It would be possible to change the unit of measure and create a purchase order at the each quantity.
Let’s look at an invoice.
Here, once the item is selected, the U/M selected by default is “ea” and the price is $38 for one doorknob. Just like with the purchase order, the U/M selection could be changed and the doorknobs could be sold as one case. QuickBooks would multiply the price so that the invoice would create for $912, or twenty-four times $38 each.
Using this feature, many reports will show a column for U/M to be sure you know what the quantity of the item means.
If needed, it is even possible to setup more than two measures in your U/M setup. For instance, each, dozen, and case of 24 could all be used in one U/M set. This would allow the QuickBooks user the option of buying or selling in any of these measures.
Hector Garcia, CPA
Certified Advanced QuickBooks ProAdvisor
954-414-1524
hector@garciacpa.com
