Delivery Document Types in SAP SD
In SAP SD (Sales and Distribution), delivery document types play a crucial role in managing the process of delivering goods to customers. Delivery document types determine the type of delivery, how goods are shipped, and what processes are involved in the delivery process. These document types define various parameters such as shipping point, delivery processing, and billing.
What are Delivery Document Types?
Delivery Document Types in SAP SD are used to create delivery documents in the system. A delivery document is created when goods need to be shipped to a customer or a location. These documents ensure the proper tracking and management of goods during the shipping process. Different document types are used for various business scenarios such as standard deliveries, returns, or consignment deliveries.
Some common examples of delivery document types include:
- LF: Standard Delivery
- LO: Delivery for returns
- ZL: Consignment Delivery
- ND: No Billing Delivery
Steps to Create a Delivery Document in SAP SD
Let’s walk through the process of creating a delivery document (using document type "LF" for a standard delivery) based on a sales order.
Step 1: Access the Delivery Creation Screen
- Transaction Code: Use transaction code VL01N to create a new delivery document.
- Sales Order: Enter the sales order number for which the delivery is being created. You can use an existing sales order number (e.g., "SO10001").
- Delivery Date: Enter the desired delivery date for the customer, e.g., "2024-12-25".
- Shipping Point: Enter the shipping point that will handle the delivery, e.g., "10" (Main Warehouse).
- Click "Enter" to proceed to the next screen.
Step 2: Select the Items for Delivery
Once you are in the delivery creation screen, you will need to select the items that are being shipped from the sales order:
- Item Selection: The system will display a list of items from the sales order that are available for delivery. Select the items you wish to deliver (e.g., 10 laptops from order "SO10001").
- Quantity to be Delivered: Enter the quantity of the items to be delivered. If all items are being shipped, the system will pre-fill the quantity based on the sales order. You can adjust the quantity if necessary (e.g., deliver only 5 laptops instead of 10).
- Batch/Serial Numbers: If applicable, select batch numbers or serial numbers for the items being delivered.
- Click "Enter" to proceed.
Step 3: Check and Confirm Delivery Details
Next, verify the details of the delivery document:
- Delivery Information: Check the shipping point, delivery date, and the customer’s address. Ensure that the delivery is directed to the correct shipping address.
- Pick/Pack Information: If relevant, review the picking and packing information for the delivery. This step can involve picking the goods from inventory and packing them for shipment.
- Stock Availability: Ensure that the required stock is available for delivery. If stock is not available, the system will alert you and may offer options for backordering or partial delivery.
- Shipping and Handling: Verify that the correct shipping method, shipping point, and transportation planning data are applied to the delivery document.
- Click "Enter" to proceed.
Step 4: Save the Delivery Document
After confirming all delivery details, you can save the delivery document:
- Save Document: Once the delivery document has been checked and confirmed, click the "Save" button to create the delivery.
- Delivery Number: The system will assign a unique delivery number (e.g., "LF10001") to the delivery document. This number can be used for tracking and further processing.
- Post Goods Issue: After saving the delivery, you will be prompted to post the goods issue. This step marks the physical goods as being shipped and reduces the inventory in the system.
Step 5: Post Goods Issue (PGI)
Posting the goods issue is a critical step in the delivery process, as it updates inventory levels and financial accounting:
- Post Goods Issue: From the delivery document, click on the "Post Goods Issue" (PGI) button to confirm that the goods have been shipped.
- Inventory Update: This action will reduce the stock from inventory and update the goods movements in the system.
- Accounting Update: The system will also update the accounting document to reflect the reduction in inventory and any relevant financial transactions.
- Click "Save" to post the goods issue.
Real-World Example of Delivery Document Types
Let’s consider a real-world scenario involving delivery document types in SAP SD:
- Standard Delivery (LF): A customer places an order for 10 laptops, and the sales order is processed. After verifying stock and delivery details, a delivery document is created using document type "LF". The system automatically generates a delivery note with the items, quantities, and shipping information. The goods issue is posted, and the inventory is updated accordingly.
- Return Delivery (LO): A customer returns 2 laptops from the previous order. A return delivery is created using document type "LO". The system records the return, updates stock levels, and initiates the necessary credit processing for the customer.
- Consignment Delivery (ZL): A customer has a consignment agreement, and the company ships goods to the customer’s location for stock but retains ownership until the customer consumes the goods. A consignment delivery is created using document type "ZL". The system manages inventory and tracks usage as the goods are consumed.
Conclusion
Delivery document types in SAP SD are fundamental for managing the delivery of goods to customers. By defining different document types like "LF" for standard deliveries, "LO" for returns, and "ZL" for consignment deliveries, SAP SD helps businesses efficiently manage their shipping processes. This tutorial has provided a step-by-step guide to creating and processing delivery documents, ensuring accurate tracking and seamless integration with other business processes like inventory management and billing.