Go to Setup > Company > Enable Features > Items & Inventory > Supply Allocation
The Supply Allocation feature in NetSuite is a comprehensive tool designed to optimize inventory management and improve order fulfillment processes. By allocating available inventory or expected supply to various transaction types, such as sales orders, transfer orders, and work orders, this feature addresses the challenges associated with managing high transaction volumes or prioritizing inventory allocation for specific customers or orders.
Key Features of Supply Allocation:
- Automatic and Manual Allocation: The system supports both automated and manual allocation methods, providing flexibility to meet diverse business requirements. Automated allocation applies predefined rules, while manual allocation allows users to fine-tune inventory distribution.
- Customizable Allocation Rules: Businesses can configure allocation rules based on priority, customer grading, order type, or item attributes, ensuring efficient inventory distribution in alignment with their operational strategy.
- Real-Time Visibility: The feature provides real-time visibility into inventory levels, enabling businesses to identify and allocate available stock or expected supply proactively.
- Improved Customer Satisfaction: By prioritizing inventory allocation to high-priority customers or orders, businesses can enhance fulfillment rates and improve customer relationships.
If a lot or serial number has already been assigned to fulfill an order, the reallocation process will not unassign it. This ensures that the specific serial or lot numbers already tied to the order remain intact, providing consistency and traceability in inventory management.