Skip to main content

2026 FAMILY OWNED, PRIVATELY OWNED AND OWNER-MANAGED BUSINESS SURVEY

Click here to find out more

Xero Tips & Tricks - Using inventory items to help speed up sales invoices entry

Do you have standard wording on your sales invoices? If so, rather than typing the details on each time you raise an invoice you can use inventory items.

For example:

I would like to invoice Joe Bloggs for the 3 hours I have worked for him along with mileage of 35 miles . My charge out rate is a standard price of £30ph and I charge 40p per mile. I can enter an inventory item for my standard hours and my mileage charge.

To set these up when creating a new sales invoice click on the drop-down arrow in the Item column and click new

Complete the boxes as follows:

If you charge a different rate each time you can leave the unit price as 0.00 and then edit this on the invoice. Once you have entered the information click save. This will then populate the first line of your sales invoice with the information you entered and all you then need to do is edit the number of miles in the quantity and description to reflect the number of miles you want to charge. 

Next time you create an invoice and want to charge mileage you will just need to choose mileage from the drop down menu in the item column

To edit or delete these standard items you can find them in the Business drop-down menu, then Products and Services. 

Subscribe to
Inspired

Our monthly bulletin INSPIRED is packed with useful articles to keep you up to date with news and legislation that may affect you or your business.

Subscribe

Recent news stories

Investment market update

22nd June 2026

Our Latest Investment Market Update – Goodbye Starmer, Iran Calmer

Female GP wearing stethoscope looking at patient notes

17th June 2026

How can GP partners manage the challenges of the 2026/27 Contract?

Adviser working with a couple to achieve financial goals

15th June 2026

Why financial advice still matters in the age of AI

Armstrong Watson can help

Whether you need expert accounting, strategic business advisory, tax planning, or financial guidance, our experienced team is here to support your success. From sole traders to large enterprises, we provide tailored solutions to help you navigate complex financial challenges and achieve your goals. Get in touch today to discover how we can help your business thrive – call 0808 144 5575.

Contact the team