content: group a fleet into an asset model from the asset index (shelf.nu#2782)

content/features/consumables-tracking.mdx

@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ personas:
   - "field"
 canonicalUrl: "/features/consumables-tracking"
 date: "2026-06-30"
-updated: "2026-08-06"
+updated: "2026-08-07"
 seo:
   title: "Consumables Tracking Software — Track Supplies by Quantity | Shelf"
   description: "Track consumables and supplies by quantity alongside your assets. Units of measure, min-quantity low-stock alerts, Used-up or Returnable consumption, and quantity-aware custody, bookings, and kits — open source, free to start."
@@ -120,7 +120,7 @@ Bookings — and quantity in bookings — are available on **Team plans**.
 
 ## Asset models: fleets tracked unit by unit
 
-**[Asset Models](/glossary/asset-models)** cover the middle ground between one-off assets and pooled stock: fleets of identical, serialized gear where every unit still needs its own record. Group individually tracked units under a model (say, "Dell Latitude 5550") and each unit keeps its own QR label, custody, and history, while new units created from the model inherit shared defaults like category and valuation. Bookings can [reserve by model](/features/bookings#book-by-model): reserve "4x HDMI cable" and scan any 4 units at pickup (bookings are on Team plans). Models group *individually tracked* assets only (a quantity-tracked pool cannot join a model), and units can join or leave a model at any time, managed under **Settings → Asset models**.
+**[Asset Models](/glossary/asset-models)** cover the middle ground between one-off assets and pooled stock: fleets of identical, serialized gear where every unit still needs its own record. Group individually tracked units under a model (say, "Dell Latitude 5550") and each unit keeps its own QR label, custody, and history, while new units created from the model inherit shared defaults like category and valuation. Bookings can [reserve by model](/features/bookings#book-by-model): reserve "4x HDMI cable" and scan any 4 units at pickup (bookings are on Team plans). Models group *individually tracked* assets only (a quantity-tracked pool cannot join a model), and units can join or leave a model at any time. Models themselves live under **Settings → Asset models**, and a fleet you already own is grouped from the asset index in one pass: select the units, then **Actions → Update asset model**.
 
 ---
 

content/glossary/asset-models.mdx

@@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ personas:
   - "education"
 canonicalUrl: "/glossary/asset-models"
 date: "2026-07-03"
-updated: "2026-08-03"
+updated: "2026-08-07"
 
 seo:
   title: "What Are Asset Models? | Definition & Examples"
@@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ This sits between the two tracking methods in Shelf: [individually tracked asset
 - **Consistent records**: new units inherit the model's defaults, so a fleet of 30 laptops does not drift into 30 slightly different records.
 - **Per-unit accountability stays intact**: each unit keeps its own QR label, custody, maintenance reminders, and audit trail, so you always know exactly who has which unit.
 - **Book by model**: reservations can target the model instead of a specific unit.
-- **Group a fleet you already own**: an existing fleet can be put under a model in one pass with an `Asset model` column in [Bulk Updating Assets via CSV](/knowledge-base/bulk-updating-assets-via-csv). Names are matched case-insensitively and a model that doesn't exist yet is created for you.
+- **Group a fleet you already own**: select the units in the asset index, then **Actions → Update asset model**. You can create the model from inside the picker, and **Remove from asset model** ungroups a selection the same way. Only the model link changes: category, value, and custody stay as they are, and quantity-tracked assets in the selection are skipped rather than blocking the batch. See [Using Batch Actions in Shelf](/knowledge-base/using-batch-actions-in-shelf#grouping-a-fleet-into-an-asset-model). If you are changing several fields at once, an `Asset model` column in [Bulk Updating Assets via CSV](/knowledge-base/bulk-updating-assets-via-csv) does the same job as part of a wider edit, matching names case-insensitively and creating a model that doesn't exist yet.
 
 ---
 

content/knowledge-base/bulk-updating-assets-via-csv.mdx

@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ title: "Bulk Updating Assets via CSV"
 description: "Use the Update Existing Assets workflow to edit asset records in bulk — export to CSV, make changes in Excel or Google Sheets, preview every diff, then apply."
 category: "Assets"
 date: "2026-04-06"
-updated: "2026-08-06"
+updated: "2026-08-07"
 layout: "knowledge-base"
 ---
 
@@ -170,7 +170,9 @@ No. Tracking method is fixed when an asset is created, so a `Tracking method` co
 
 ### How do I assign an asset model to a whole fleet at once?
 
-Add an `Asset model` column and put the model name in every row. Names are matched case-insensitively and a model that doesn't exist yet is created for you, so you can name a new fleet in the same file that assigns it. Models apply to individually tracked assets only, see [Asset Models](/glossary/asset-models).
+If the model is the only thing you are changing, you do not need a CSV at all: select the units in the asset index and use **Actions → Update asset model**, which also has a **Remove from asset model** counterpart. See [Using Batch Actions in Shelf](/knowledge-base/using-batch-actions-in-shelf#grouping-a-fleet-into-an-asset-model).
+
+Use this workflow when the model rides along with other edits. Add an `Asset model` column and put the model name in every row. Names are matched case-insensitively and a model that doesn't exist yet is created for you, so you can name a new fleet in the same file that assigns it. Models apply to individually tracked assets only, see [Asset Models](/glossary/asset-models).
 
 ### Can I restock a quantity-tracked asset through this workflow?
 

content/knowledge-base/how-to-choose-a-tracking-method.mdx

@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ title: "How to Choose a Tracking Method"
 description: "One of it, a fleet of it, or a bin of it? A four-question guide to picking individual assets, Asset Models, or quantity tracking for each item type."
 category: "Assets"
 date: "2026-07-03"
-updated: "2026-07-03"
+updated: "2026-08-07"
 layout: "knowledge-base"
 seo:
   title: "Individual Assets, Asset Models, or Quantity Tracking? | Shelf"
@@ -73,6 +73,8 @@ An [Asset Model](/glossary/asset-models) groups identical, individually tracked
 
 Two things to know: models group individually tracked items only (a quantity-tracked pool cannot join a model), and grouping is flexible. Items can join, leave, or switch models at any time.
 
+Grouping a fleet you already own is a bulk action, not a per-asset chore: select the units in the asset index and use **Actions → Update asset model**, or **Remove from asset model** to ungroup them. Quantity-tracked assets in a mixed selection are skipped instead of failing the batch. See [Using Batch Actions in Shelf](/knowledge-base/using-batch-actions-in-shelf#grouping-a-fleet-into-an-asset-model).
+
 ---
 
 ## Quantity tracking: stock you count
@@ -87,7 +89,7 @@ The full feature tour is on [Consumables Tracking](/features/consumables-trackin
 
 <Callout type="info" title="One choice is permanent">
 
-You choose individual or quantity tracking when creating an item; that choice cannot be switched later, so decide per item type up front. Grouping under an Asset Model is the flexible part: individually tracked items can join, leave, or switch models at any time.
+You choose individual or quantity tracking when creating an item; that choice cannot be switched later, so decide per item type up front. Grouping under an Asset Model is the flexible part: individually tracked items can join, leave, or switch models at any time, one at a time on the asset's edit form or in bulk from the asset index **Actions** menu.
 
 </Callout>
 

content/knowledge-base/quantity-tracked-assets-and-consumables.mdx

@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ title: "Quantity-Tracked Assets and Consumables"
 description: "Track fungible items by count instead of one record per unit — cables, gloves, supplies, and consumables. Set a quantity, a unit of measure, low-stock alerts, and how stock is consumed."
 category: "Assets"
 date: "2026-06-30"
-updated: "2026-08-06"
+updated: "2026-08-07"
 layout: "knowledge-base"
 seo:
   keywords:
@@ -217,7 +217,7 @@ An asset whose units sit in more than one location is the one exception: the `Lo
 
 ## Asset models (optional)
 
-You can group individually tracked assets under an **[Asset Model](/glossary/asset-models)** (for example, "Dell Latitude 5550") so that shared defaults — like category and valuation — are pre-filled when you create new assets from that model. Asset models are managed under **Settings → Asset models**, and you can bulk-create assets from a model. Models also unlock [booking by model](/features/bookings#book-by-model): reserve "4x" of a model and scan any 4 units at pickup. Note that models group individually tracked assets only; a quantity-tracked pool cannot join a model.
+You can group individually tracked assets under an **[Asset Model](/glossary/asset-models)** (for example, "Dell Latitude 5550") so that shared defaults — like category and valuation — are pre-filled when you create new assets from that model. Asset models are managed under **Settings → Asset models**, and you can bulk-create assets from a model. To group units you already own, select them in the asset index and use **Actions → Update asset model**, or **Remove from asset model** to ungroup them. Models also unlock [booking by model](/features/bookings#book-by-model): reserve "4x" of a model and scan any 4 units at pickup. Note that models group individually tracked assets only; a quantity-tracked pool cannot join a model, and quantity-tracked assets caught in a bulk grouping are skipped with a count rather than failing the batch.
 
 ---
 

content/knowledge-base/using-batch-actions-in-shelf.mdx

@@ -1,16 +1,16 @@
 ---
 title: "Using Batch Actions in Shelf"
-description: "Shelf's batch actions feature enables performing operations on multiple assets simultaneously, streamlining asset management workflows and saving time when updating inventory at scale."
+description: "Shelf's batch actions let you act on many assets at once from the asset index Actions menu: custody, tags, location, category, asset model, kits, availability, audits, and deletion."
 category: "Assets"
 date: "2024-06-01"
-updated: "2026-06-24"
+updated: "2026-08-07"
 layout: "knowledge-base"
 ---
 
 <InlineVideo
   mp4="https://qliecghuzfchfjwaisyx.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/website-images/knowledgebase/batch-actions-flow.mp4"
   webm="https://qliecghuzfchfjwaisyx.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/website-images/knowledgebase/batch-actions-flow.webm"
-  alt="How to use batch actions in Shelf — select assets, then choose from 14 bulk operations"
+  alt="How to use batch actions in Shelf: select assets, then choose from the bulk operations in the Actions menu"
 />
 
 ## How to Use Batch Actions
@@ -32,22 +32,54 @@ Click the "Actions" dropdown menu located in the top right corner after making y
 
 ### Step 4: Choose Batch Actions
 
-Available operations include:
+Available operations, in the order they appear in the menu:
 
+- **Download QR Codes**: Get the QR labels for every selected asset in one file
+- **Create audit**: Start a new audit covering the selected assets
+- **Add to existing audit**: Fold the selected assets into an audit that is already running
 - **Release custody**: Remove the current custodian from selected assets
-- **Assign custody**: Assign a new custodian to selected assets
-- **Assign Tags**: Add tags to assets in bulk
-- **Remove Tags**: Remove tags from assets in bulk
+- **Assign custody**: Assign a new custodian to selected assets (self-service users see **Take custody**)
+- **Assign tags**: Add tags to assets in bulk
+- **Remove tags**: Remove tags from assets in bulk
 - **Update location**: Change the location of selected assets
 - **Update category**: Modify the category of selected assets
+- **Update asset model**: Group the selected assets into one [Asset Model](/glossary/asset-models)
+- **Remove from asset model**: Take the selected assets out of whatever model they belong to
+- **Add to kit**: Put the selected assets into a kit
+- **Remove from kit**: Take the selected assets out of their kit
 - **Mark as available**: Make items bookable/reservable in bulk
 - **Mark as unavailable**: Make items unbookable/unreservable in bulk
 - **Delete**: Remove selected assets from inventory
 
+Some entries grey out when the selection does not suit them, with a short explanation on hover. **Release custody** needs every selected asset to be in custody, **Assign custody** needs them all to be available, and **Add to kit** and **Delete** are blocked while anything in the selection is checked out. The audit entries only appear for roles that can create or update audits.
+
+![The asset index Actions menu, with Update asset model and Remove from asset model listed under Update category](https://qliecghuzfchfjwaisyx.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/website-images/knowledgebase/bulk-asset-model-menu.webp)
+
 ### Step 5: Complete Action
 
 Follow the prompts to finalize your chosen operation. Once the action succeeds, Shelf clears your selection automatically, so you can move straight on to the next batch without unselecting everything first. (Read-only operations like exporting data or downloading QR codes keep your selection, since they don't change anything.)
 
+## Grouping a Fleet into an Asset Model
+
+**Update asset model** is how you put a fleet you already own under one [Asset Model](/glossary/asset-models), without opening each asset's edit form or re-importing a CSV.
+
+1. Filter or search the index down to the units you want to group, then select them.
+2. Open **Actions** and choose **Update asset model**.
+3. Pick the model in the picker, or use **Create new asset model** to make one on the spot.
+4. Click **Confirm**.
+
+![The Group assets into an asset model dialog, warning that quantity-tracked assets in the selection will be skipped](https://qliecghuzfchfjwaisyx.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/website-images/knowledgebase/bulk-asset-model-dialog.webp)
+
+Three things are worth knowing before you confirm:
+
+- **Only the model link changes.** Category, value, and custody are left exactly as they are. A model's default category and valuation are create-time conveniences, so they are not applied retroactively to assets you group this way.
+- **Quantity-tracked assets are skipped, not rejected.** Asset models group individually tracked units only. A mixed selection still works: the individually tracked assets are grouped and the dialog tells you up front how many will be skipped. The result message repeats the count afterwards.
+- **Assets already in another model are moved.** The confirmation says how many changed model, which is your signal that a different model's book-by-model pool just got smaller.
+
+**Remove from asset model** is the reverse and has its own menu item. It ungroups every selected asset and leaves everything else about them untouched.
+
+If nothing changes, Shelf says so rather than reporting a silent success: you will see **No assets updated** with the reason, whether that is your filters no longer matching anything, the assets already being in that model, or none of them having been in a model to begin with.
+
 ## Tips for Effective Use
 
 - Combine batch actions with filters and sorting to locate and update specific asset groups efficiently

content/solutions/fixed-asset-tracking.mdx

@@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ personas:
   - "it"
 canonicalUrl: "/solutions/fixed-asset-tracking"
 date: "2025-01-01"
-updated: "2026-04-30"
+updated: "2026-08-07"
 seo:
   title: "Free Fixed Asset Tracking Software — QR Labels & Lifecycle Management | Shelf"
   description: "Free fixed asset tracking software with QR identification, custody logs, and service reminders. Track high-value equipment from acquisition to retirement. Open source."
@@ -109,6 +109,8 @@ See: [Asset Reminders](/features/asset-reminders)
 
 When you onboard a batch of identical fixed assets — a row of the same monitor, a fleet of matching workstations — Asset Models save the repetitive setup. Define a model once with its category and valuation defaults, then bulk-create individually tracked assets from it. Each item still gets its own QR code, custody history, and record; the model just pre-fills the shared fields so a register of 40 identical units takes minutes, not an afternoon. Manage models under Settings → Asset models.
 
+A register you have already built can be organized the same way after the fact. Filter the asset index down to the units that belong together, select them, and use **Actions → Update asset model** to group the whole set in one pass; **Remove from asset model** reverses it. Only the model link changes, so category, valuation, and custody on those records stay exactly as your audit trail recorded them.
+
 ---
 
 ## Key Benefits

content/updates/group-assets-into-an-asset-model-in-bulk.mdx

@@ -0,0 +1,21 @@
+---
+title: "Group a Fleet Into an Asset Model From the Asset Index"
+description: "Two new items in the asset index Actions menu: Update asset model groups every selected asset into one model, and Remove from asset model ungroups them. No more editing assets one at a time or re-importing a CSV."
+date: "2026-08-06"
+image: "https://qliecghuzfchfjwaisyx.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/website-images/knowledgebase/bulk-asset-model-dialog.webp"
+readMoreUrl: "/knowledge-base/using-batch-actions-in-shelf#grouping-a-fleet-into-an-asset-model"
+layout: "update"
+---
+
+Putting a fleet you already own under an [Asset Model](/glossary/asset-models) used to mean opening each asset's edit form one at a time, or re-importing a CSV. The asset index **Actions** menu now does it for the whole selection, with two items directly under **Update category**:
+
+- **Update asset model** links every eligible selected asset to one model. The picker lists your existing models and has a **Create new asset model** option, so you can name a new fleet and assign it in the same step.
+- **Remove from asset model** takes the selection out of whatever model each asset is on.
+
+**Only the model link changes.** Category, value, and custody are left alone. A model's default category and valuation are create-time conveniences, so they are not applied backwards over records you have already curated.
+
+**A mixed selection is normal, so it is handled rather than refused.** Asset models group individually tracked units only. If your selection includes quantity-tracked assets, the dialog warns you before you confirm, the individually tracked assets are still grouped, and the result tells you how many were skipped.
+
+**The counts are specific on purpose.** You are told how many were grouped, and separately how many moved off a different model, since that is the only signal that the other model's book-by-model pool just got smaller. A cross-page **Select all** resolves against your filters on the server, so the dialog title states the real batch size rather than the number of rows on screen. If nothing ends up changing, Shelf says **No assets updated** and gives the reason instead of reporting a success that did nothing.
+
+The [Bulk Updating Assets via CSV](/knowledge-base/bulk-updating-assets-via-csv) route still exists and is the better tool when the model rides along with other field changes in one pass.