Under a periodic inventory system,purchases,purchases returns and allowances,purchase discounts,and transportation-in transactions are recorded in the Merchandise Inventory account.

Periodic Inventory System

An accounting method that updates inventory levels and cost of goods sold at the end of an accounting period, not continuously.

Merchandise Inventory

The goods or products that a retailer or wholesaler intends to sell to customers for a profit.

Purchase Discounts

Reductions in the cost price of goods or services that are offered to purchasers when they pay within a specified period or meet certain conditions, aimed at encouraging prompt payment.