Quick answer: Opening and closing are the two most vulnerable times of a retail day: few staff, cash being counted and doors being unlocked or locked. A good opening procedure checks the building and cameras, counts the float and opens on time. A good closing procedure uses two people, locks the doors before counting, secures cash and high-value stock, checks every room, sets the alarm and logs the closing time. Write both down, train everyone and verify them on camera.
Why openings and closings matter
- Robberies and break-ins often target these windows.
- Cash is counted and moved.
- One person may be alone in the store.
- Mistakes such as an unlocked back door or lights left off create overnight risk.
Opening checklist
Before entering
- [ ] Look for signs of forced entry, broken glass or people waiting nearby.
- [ ] If anything looks wrong, don't enter. Call the manager or police.
Entering
- [ ] Enter through the designated door; lock it behind you.
- [ ] Disarm the alarm with your own code.
Building check
- [ ] Walk the store, restrooms, stockroom and office.
- [ ] Confirm cameras are recording.
- [ ] Check coolers, freezers and equipment.
Cash
- [ ] Count the opening float with a second person or on camera.
- [ ] Record the amount.
Ready to open
- [ ] Lights, signs and music on.
- [ ] Restock grab-and-go items.
- [ ] Unlock on time and log the opening time.
Closing checklist
Before closing time
- [ ] Two employees scheduled to close.
- [ ] Reduce cash in drawers with a final safe drop.
- [ ] Start cleaning tasks that don't need the doors open.
At closing
- [ ] Lock the front door at closing time; turn the sign off.
- [ ] Check restrooms, stockroom and every aisle for anyone still inside.
- [ ] Lock doors before counting cash.
- [ ] Count drawers in the office on camera; prepare the deposit.
- [ ] Put cash and deposit in the safe.
- [ ] Leave empty drawers open.
Securing the building
- [ ] Lock high-value items away.
- [ ] Back door locked and checked.
- [ ] Equipment off; coolers on.
- [ ] Night lights and exterior lights on.
- [ ] Alarm set.
- [ ] Leave together and log the closing time.
Making procedures stick
- Print the checklists and post them where staff work.
- Train every new hire on both.
- Verify on camera: live monitoring can confirm the key steps (two people present, doors locked before counting, alarm set).
- Review exceptions weekly and coach, don't just blame.
- Use the same checklists in every location.
Frequently asked questions
Why lock the doors before counting cash?
It prevents a robbery or interruption during the most cash-exposed moment of the day.
Is a two-person close really necessary?
It is one of the most effective safety and anti-theft rules. Where staffing makes it impossible, use live monitoring as a safety backup.
How do I know the procedures are followed?
Verify on camera, log opening and closing times, and review exceptions weekly.
Key takeaways
- Openings and closings are high-risk windows; write clear procedures for both.
- Two people, doors locked before counting, cash in the safe.
- Verify on camera and review exceptions weekly.
Next step: Digital EYE operators verify openings and closings at every location. Learn more.