SAP S/4HANA for Manufacturing Logistics: Enhancements for Production Logistics

SAP S/4HANA for Manufacturing Logistics: Enhancements for Production Logistics

The intelligent integration of warehouse and production is considered a key factor for efficient intralogistics. With SAP S/4HANA for Manufacturing Logistics, a solution approach is being pursued that fills existing gaps in production supply. Processes along the flow of materials between warehouse, delivery areas and production line are harmonized by the system. The result: greater transparency, improved management and stable supply security.

What is SAP S/4HANA for Manufacturing Logistics?

SAP S/4HANA for Manufacturing Logistics is an extension within the SAP S/4HANA platform that is specifically designed for intralogistic scenarios between warehouse and production. The solution supplements existing SAP EWM and SAP TM functions with three central functional enhancements: Tugger train processes, shuttle control and inbound cargo registration. The aim is to establish standardized, continuous processes for production supply — without individual special developments.

Technical basis and system architecture

The solution is based on modular add-ons within the SAP S/4HANA architecture and requires active use of SAP EWM. Transport orders, production orders and warehouse processes are intertwined via standardized interfaces. The material flow is controlled by predefined customizing modules. This involves the use of SAP-internal frameworks such as LOI (Logistics Integration) and EWM-specific resource and warehouse methods.

Tugger train process in SAP EWM

The function for Tugger Trains (load trains) represents the recurring, sequential delivery to consumption points in production. Transport orders are summarized by the system, bundled in time and planned along predefined routes. Route planning takes into account loading points, unloading points and intermediate stops. Feedback from execution flows back into the system automatically and enables accurate consumption recording. This makes supply more efficient and at the same time easier to control.

Shuttle process in SAP EWM

The shuttle process enables system-based control of transport between spatially separated storage areas — for example between a central warehouse and a production hall. Here, a virtual storage location is defined as a transfer point. Shuttle transport orders control the movement of materials regardless of physical proximity and thus enable a flexible response to production requirements. This process is particularly suitable for multi-stage supply scenarios with clear separation of roles between main and interim storage facilities.

Inbound Cargo Registration in SAP TM

The Inbound Cargo Registration component is part of SAP TM and is used to record incoming shipments at an early stage. Delivery information can be registered, referenced and quality assured even before the goods are physically received. Integration with SAP EWM makes it possible to specifically control deliveries, plan dock and time windows, and efficiently use incoming goods resources. The data is available in advance for review, notification and prioritization — a clear advantage for companies with a high volume of incoming goods.

Conclusion: Who benefits from SAP S/4HANA for Manufacturing Logistics?

SAP S/4HANA for Manufacturing Logistics is suitable for companies that want to establish standardized production supply based on SAP S/4HANA. The three central expansions — Tugger Train, Shuttle Processes and Inbound Cargo Registration — fill classic gaps in material flow. The solution creates efficiency, transparency and process reliability in continuous digital intralogistics.

Qinlox supports the introduction of SAP S/4HANA for Manufacturing Logistics — from process analysis to productive use

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