Thanks to computers it is easier to keep track of what we have. I keep a list of what I have and what I have payed for it. Also I made a log for my loks on maintenance along with parts diagrams and information on the prototype of these loks when available. My collection is modest compared to some with 19 loks 37 passenger cars and 95 freight cars. What I did not do is keep track of what boxes came with the equipment, not everything came with a box and some came in sets. My three daughters have not expressed any interest in my hobby, even through I tried, and no grand kids on the way. With that in mind I am making photos of everything labeling the photos with the model numbers and making notes on my equipment list what came with a box so that it would be easier to match everything since most likely they will sell everything if something should happen to me. Needless to say to found some mistakes on model numbers especially on my passenger cars. When I am done at least one disk will be at the bank, especially for insurance reasons . As for the buildings, vehicles, people, etc all well that will be their problem. Just my thoughts on the subject maybe some of you have some further suggestions or comments how you do your inventory.
Fred

Hello,

I have built a tool for myself that I use to track my collection with value, photos, descriptions, custom fields, etc. I would be happy to provide any member of this forum with an account, let message me directly. You can see the program here:

http://get.collectormetric.com/

You can also easily share your items to your public profile like mine here: http://collectormetric.com/marklinstop

Paul

Hi,
When you operate model trains, the divide between keeping track of items as a collection and running them, becomes complicated.
I know that Ray runs trains too.

I have found that getting items from individual boxes, running, then putting them back is a nightmare.
So all my individually packaged rolling stock and engines are either kept in a display case, or in padded boxes with dividers, that hold 20 items.
Items that are in set boxes (Marklin does plenty in sets) can remain in their set box, because they are easily retrieved and replaced.

Ideally, all individual boxes could be stored in number order on a shelf when the time comes to re-package for sale.
Many boxes have pictures, so it is not difficult to find the right box.
However, I do not have shelving, so boxes are stored in larger boxes, which are cross referenced in a spreadsheet.

Example of a line item used for running:
29/09/2017 46xxx $30 DB cov wagon #201675 3-3 (size and storage box number) Retailer XX
Sometimes I write the model number in small printing on the underside of the model (using white ink or such with a mapping pen).
Because my stock has been purchased over 11 years, the responsibility of updating a spreadsheet has been no burden at all.

I like Collectormetric, but I cannot see myself using anything as sophisticated.
It takes enough time figuring how to run trains.

Kimball

my inventory is stored in my mobile app. the moment I move the inventory moves with me., it is impossible to hack it unless I'll finish up in some country with extreme views about model train enthusiasts and therefore the evidence may be squeezed out of me.

I do get anxiety attacks sometimes when I can't find a loco or carriage, its stupid but I just have to make an harder effort to find it somewhere in around our home and garage.

Sometimes I get surprises when I open up a loco and find a sound decoder in it., rolling stock is still a mystery, sometimes I find a carriage I've forgot I had.

30 years ago I had a book and recorded all my loco in there especially with decoder numbers, these days it's not necessary because locos get automatically recognized.

for future references I will however one day start recording all my locos in case they get sold

recording the money I've spent would only lead for me to see a doctor and to find out whether or not I'm sane or insane and somehow I'm hooked to a hobby without looking at it from an independent body and see what else is there in life. Its not the locos or rolling stock I'm talking about its the little things: station accessories, overhead system, wires, screws, insulation, and more screws, servo motors, sound decoders, all these things don't get recorded., thousands of Preislinger, street, station and platform lights and last but not least: the time one spends, over 30 years of my life I have spend some time with my layout, how many hours I wouldn't have a clue and to tell you the truth if I would record all my time I've spend either converting locos, working on the layout I wouldn't have time to record the times and any good, loyal wife would say: what a waste of time and money.

John

I have used the Woodland Scenics DB app. It is very nice and handy and, probably, has more fields than anyone could want.
I don't know if they still have this app or have updated it since I got it years ago.
On top of this you can save in CSV format the DB on your computer.

I started a long time ago (> 30 years) with a multidimensional spreadsheet. A worksheet per category, like locomotives, wagons and coaches, houses, vehicles, preiserlein and so on. And a topsheet with all the totals.

It was a lot of work to start, and I didn't know all prices.
Everytime I buy or get something I update the sheets, so the maintenance is quite simple.
I know now the number of locomotives, how much preiserleins live on my lay-out (1717), the number of trees, and so on.
I add pictures of the locomotives and the wagons/coaches,
Also add some information about the model and the prototype (mostly copied from the catalogue). During the years the stored information was extended.

I used to have a separate spreadsheet for the digital locomotives with decoder number, functions. But with the new stations that isn't necessary anymore.

I know I spend a lot of money over the last 50 years, but who cares, I enjoyed the things I bought (most of the time )

I'm happy with what I have now, converting to another system probably would be a major operation.

You should list your rolling stock. My doing so has saved me a lot of money not buying duplicates.

Before I had a list, I mistakenly bought duplicates fairly often. But I have quite a bit more rolling stock than you. YMMV