When working with products that require batch tracking like food items, pharmaceuticals, or materials with expiration dates having a robust batch management system is essential. SAP Logistics Management offers integrated batch handling that connects seamlessly with SAP S/4HANA Cloud Private Edition, ensuring traceability throughout your warehouse operations.

Batches in SAP Logistics Management

Batches are centrally managed master data that capture critical product information. This data is replicated from SAP S/4HANA Cloud Private Edition to SAP Logistics Management using the Schedule Data Replication app in SAP Logistics Management, making it available across all warehouse processes. Pre-requisite for the replication of batches from SAP S/4HANA Cloud Private Edition to SAP Logistics Management is, that the batch level is defined on material level in SAP S/4HANA Cloud Private Edition customizing.

The following batch characteristics are stored in SAP Logistics Management and can be found in the Display Batches app:

• Shelf life expiration date
• Manufacturing date
• Batch status
• Country or region of origin
• Supplier and supplier batch number
• Whether the batch is marked for deletion

How Batches Flow Through Your Warehouse

Inbound Operations

A batch is entered in the inbound delivery item in SAP S/4HANA and the inbound delivery is distributed automatically to SAP Logistics Management. You can view the batch for the item in the Monitor Logistical Demands and Manage Inbound Warehouse Activities apps.

Note: Batch split is not supported.

Stock Management

Batches serve as quant-differentiating attributes, meaning your system tracks inventory at the batch level. This granular visibility is available through the Manage Stock app.

The Upload Stock app supports now batch-managed products. You can include the batch directly in the template before uploading.

Warehouse Tasks

During picking and putaway, batch information is visible in both the Process Warehouse Tasks app and the SAP Warehouse Logistics mobile app (version 1.4), ensuring warehouse operatives always know which batch they're handling.

Outbound Operations

A batch is entered in the outbound delivery item in SAP S/4HANA and the outbound delivery is distributed to SAP Logistics Management. The batch follows through picking, packing, staging, and goods issue, maintaining complete traceability until the product leaves your facility. 

Notes:

• Batch split is not supported
• The batch is not displayed in transportation relevant documents in SAP Logistics Management

Conclusion

Managing batches doesn't have to be complicated. With the right system in place, you gain the visibility and control needed to meet regulatory requirements while keeping operations running smoothly. The above mentioned is just the beginning of the batch journey in SAP Logistics Management so stay tuned.