SKU or item ID
A stable identifier lets demand and inventory be analyzed at item level.
GUIDE
Inventory forecasting from Excel: what data you actually need.
You can start inventory forecasting without replacing your ERP. A clean Excel or CSV export can provide enough evidence for an initial demand and replenishment analysis.
Sales or demand history
Dated history is best; aggregated demand can still support a simpler baseline.
Current stock
On-hand inventory is needed to translate forecast demand into coverage and risk.
Lead time and inbound supply
These fields improve reorder timing and replenishment recommendations.
Cost and price
Optional financial fields help rank working-capital and revenue exposure.
What the forecast should produce
A useful inventory forecast is not just a chart. It should connect expected demand to days of cover, safety stock, reorder point and a reviewable replenishment action.