What does the associate/buyer need to confirm after receiving available inventory?

The correct choice highlights the importance of accuracy in inventory management. After receiving available inventory, the associate or buyer needs to ensure that there is consistency between the electronic file and the Excel sheet. This verification is crucial because discrepancies can lead to errors in ordering, stock levels, or financial reporting. By confirming that everything aligns between these two sources, the associate can prevent potential issues that could arise from miscommunication or data entry errors.

The other options, while they may seem relevant in different contexts, do not directly address the importance of checking the accuracy of the information pertaining to the inventory on hand. For example, the cheapest option is not always the best choice, as factors like quality and availability also need consideration. Checking budget requirements is important, but it comes into play after confirming inventory accuracy. Lastly, confirming that contracts are signed relates to procurement processes but does not directly involve the immediate task of inventory validation.