How Lot Control Works in iDempiere

Lot control is an iDempiere feature used to track products batch by batch, where each batch (or lot) is assigned a unique identification number. This approach helps businesses effectively manage quality, monitor expiry dates, and ensure full traceability throughout the supply chain. In nutritional businesses, lot control is especially critical, as it supports product safety, regulatory compliance, and the ability to quickly identify and address any quality issues.

Enable Lot Control for Product

Products requiring batch tracking are flagged as Lot Controlled in their master record. This setting mandates lot number entry for all receiving, issuing, and sales transactions, such as enabling Lot Controlled = Yes for Whey Protein Powder.

Lot Creation at Receipt

During goods receipt, unique lot numbers are entered or auto-generated with associated details including batch number, manufacture date, and expiry date. Each receipt transaction creates distinct lot records, for example Lot: WP-JAN-2025 with expiry January 2027.

Inventory Storage by Lot

Inventory maintains stock at the lot level rather than generic product level, accommodating multiple lots of the same product with varying expiry dates. This provides precise visibility into available batches and their conditions.

Lot Selection During Issue or Sale

Issuing or selling prompts mandatory lot selection, supporting FIFO, expiry-based, or manual picking methods. This prevents expired batch usage and ensures quality compliance during outbound transactions.

Full Traceability

Lot numbers maintain complete visibility flowing through Purchase Orders, Receipts, Inventory Movements, Sales Orders, and Invoices. Problematic batches can be rapidly identified and quarantined across the entire supply chain.

Lot Control in iDempiere ensures safe, traceable, and quality-driven inventory management by tracking every product at the batch level from receipt to sale.