FEFO
FEFO (First-Expired-First-Out) is a warehousing and inventory management method used mainly in industries dealing with perishable goods. It's like an organized system for making sure products with the closest expiration dates are shipped out first, helping companies reduce waste and maintain product freshness. Unlike the simpler FIFO (First-In-First-Out) method, FEFO specifically looks at expiration dates rather than just when items arrived. This approach is especially important in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries where product expiration is a critical factor.
Examples in Resumes
Implemented FEFO inventory management system in pharmaceutical warehouse, reducing expired product waste by 35%
Trained warehouse staff on FEFO procedures for perishable goods handling
Managed distribution center operations using FEFO and First-Expired-First-Out principles
Typical job title: "Warehouse Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Warehouse Managers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement a FEFO system in a large warehouse that currently uses FIFO?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should cover planning the transition, including staff training, updating inventory management systems, establishing new procedures for date checking, and implementing quality control measures. Should also address potential challenges and solutions.
Q: How do you measure the success of a FEFO system?
Expected Answer: Should mention key metrics like reduction in expired product waste, inventory accuracy, picking accuracy, customer satisfaction rates, and cost savings. Should also discuss tracking and reporting methods.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key differences between FEFO and FIFO, and when would you use each?
Expected Answer: Should explain that FEFO is based on expiration dates while FIFO is based on arrival order. Should give examples of when each is appropriate (FEFO for perishables, FIFO for non-perishable items).
Q: How do you ensure proper rotation of stock in a FEFO system?
Expected Answer: Should discuss regular inventory checks, proper labeling systems, staff training, and use of inventory management software to track expiration dates.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is FEFO and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should explain that FEFO means First-Expired-First-Out and its importance in managing perishable inventory to reduce waste and ensure product quality.
Q: What information do you need to check when receiving products in a FEFO system?
Expected Answer: Should mention checking and recording expiration dates, lot numbers, receiving dates, and proper storage conditions for products.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of inventory management
- Knowledge of warehouse safety procedures
- Ability to check and record expiration dates
- Basic computer skills for inventory systems
Mid (2-5 years)
- Implementation of FEFO procedures
- Team supervision and training
- Inventory management software expertise
- Problem-solving in stock rotation
Senior (5+ years)
- Large-scale FEFO system implementation
- Warehouse optimization strategies
- Team management and development
- Process improvement and waste reduction
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with perishable goods handling
- Lack of knowledge about expiration date management
- Poor understanding of inventory rotation principles
- No familiarity with warehouse management systems
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Human Capital Operational Excellence: Unlocking Your Organization's Potential
Cutting HR Costs Without Sacrificing Quality: A How-To for Savvy Executives
Workforce Solutions Aggregators: The Next Big Thing You Didn't Know You Needed
