🏗️ What Makes a Great Metal and Structural Steel Products Workflow?
Structural steel and metal products require a workflow that’s accurate, safe, and built for speed. From quoting and cutting to storage and shipping, every step must be tightly controlled through your ERP system.
Let’s walk through what a best-in-class workflow looks like.
- Standardized Receiving and Classification
When steel products arrive, your ERP should prompt a checklist:
Confirm grade (A36, A992, etc.)
Dimensions and weight
Heat certifications and traceability docs
Assign lot or serial numbers
- Cut and Modify with Precision
If you offer custom cutting, make sure your ERP ties job tickets to raw material inventory. Integrate with CNC machinery for precision and track offcuts for reuse.
- Track by Project or Customer
Segment inventory for project-specific allocations. This prevents overuse or accidental dispatch of reserved items, and improves material traceability on commercial or DOT jobs.
- Use Weight-Driven Inventory Logs
For heavy products like I-beams or plates, use weight-based metrics in your ERP. This helps with load planning, truck limits, and warehouse stacking safety.
- Inspections and Compliance Logs
Your workflow should include QA checklists (corrosion, bending, weld prep) and storage condition checks—especially for products stored outdoors.
- Dispatch Scheduling and Safety
Ensure your system tracks loading sequences, forklift assignments, and safety requirements for oversized or long-length steel.
With the right ERP-powered workflow, steel distribution becomes smooth, safe, and profitable. Want help setting up your steel and metals workflow? Contact us and let’s build it together.
