What is a Semi-SKU and when should I use one?

A Semi-SKU (semi-finished SKU) is a product that’s not yet ready for sale but is produced as part of the manufacturing process. It’s a partially completed component—used in one or more steps before the final product is assembled.

Using Semi-SKUs helps manufacturers break complex production into manageable stages and track the movement and inventory of intermediate goods.

What Is a Semi-SKU?

A Semi-SKU is typically created as the output of an in-house or outsourced process in a BOM. It represents something that’s not the final product but is required before the end SKU can be completed. Semi-SKUs:

• Have their own SKUs

• Can be tracked in inventory

• May appear in multiple BOMs

• Are not customer-facing products

For example, if you're producing a ring, you might first mold the base (Semi-SKU), polish it, and then add stones in a later step. The molded base would be your Semi-SKU.

Why Use Semi-SKUs?

• Clarity: Breaks manufacturing into clear, logical steps

• Inventory Tracking: Lets you monitor progress and stock of intermediate goods

• Reusability: Semi-SKUs can be shared across multiple final products

• Process Control: Helps isolate issues in specific stages of production

How to Use Them in DigitBridge

In the Processes tab of a BOM, when defining a production step (either in-house or outsourced), enter a Semi-SKU to indicate that the result of this step is a semi-finished item. This Semi-SKU will then:

• Be tracked in the Semi-Warehouse

• Appear in WIP jobs using that BOM

• Flow into your raw materials and yield tracking

Related Guides

• How do I create a Semi-SKU in DigitBridge?

• How do I create and manage a Bill of Materials (BOM)?

• What is the difference between a BOM and a WIP?

• How do I create and manage a Work in Progress (WIP) job?

• What are product, material, and semi-warehouses?