What does a Bill of Materials (BOM) typically include?

A Bill of Materials (BOM) is a comprehensive list that specifies all the raw materials, components, parts, and sub-assemblies required to manufacture a product. It serves as a crucial document in manufacturing processes because it provides detailed information that is necessary for procurement and production planning.

Including the raw materials and components enables manufacturers to understand exactly what is needed to create the finished product, ensuring that they can source and allocate resources efficiently. This attention to detail helps prevent production delays and stockouts, as production teams can reference the BOM to ensure they have everything they need.

In contrast, elements like shipping schedules and delivery dates, sales contracts and agreements, or customer feedback and surveys are not typically included in a BOM. These aspects relate more to logistics, sales, and customer service rather than the direct material requirements for manufacturing a product. Thus, the focus of a BOM is specifically on the materials and components necessary for production, making it essential for effective manufacturing and supply chain management.