Assigning batch numbers in Katana ensures full traceability of manufactured products—from production, through inventory, to final sales. This allows you to track exactly which items were produced, used in subassemblies, or sold.
Why batch numbers matter
Provide traceability across purchasing, manufacturing, and sales.
Support expiry date tracking for perishable or time-sensitive goods.
Allow you to select specific batches for sales or subassemblies later.
When batch numbers must be assigned
During an open MO → Add batch numbers anytime while the MO is in progress.
When completing an MO → You cannot mark a MO as Done or Partially complete without assigning a batch number.
During bulk MO completion → You’ll be prompted to assign batch numbers for all batch-trackable products without one.
If a product is batch-trackable, the MO cannot be completed without a batch number.
How to assign batch numbers
From an open manufacturing order
Open the MO.
Click Batch # Edit.
Enter a Batch number (required).
Optionally, enter an Expiration date.
Click Confirm.
Important:
The entire MO quantity must be assigned to a single batch. You cannot split one MO into multiple batches.
You can either:
Create a new batch number.
Assign an existing batch number (products are grouped into a previously created batch).
When completing a manufacturing order
If you haven’t added a batch number earlier:
Change the MO’s production status to Done or Partially complete.
A prompt will ask you to assign a batch number before completion.
📌 Once an MO is Partially complete, batch numbers cannot be edited unless you revert the MO.
Special case – Shop Floor App
If all production operations are marked complete in the Shop Floor App but no batch number is assigned, the MO status will remain Work in progress.
To finish the MO, go to the main Katana app → update the status to Done → assign a batch number.
Managing batch numbers
Editing: You can change batch number info on completed MOs if needed.
Stock screen: All batches are listed under Stock > Batches tab.
Sales: When selling products, you can select items from a specific batch.
Bulk completing manufacturing orders
When bulk-completing MOs from the Make screen:
You’ll be prompted to assign batch numbers for all products that require them.
If an MO already has a batch number, it won’t appear in the list.
Enter batch numbers (and optional expiry dates) for all rows → click Confirm.
Limitation:
If ingredients are also batch-tracked, bulk completion is not possible. You must select ingredient batches for each MO individually.
Key takeaways
Batch numbers are mandatory for batch-tracked products before completing an MO.
A single MO can only be assigned to one batch.
You can assign batches during the MO, at completion, or in bulk (with exceptions).
Expiry dates are optional but useful for perishable products.
Full traceability connects purchasing → manufacturing → sales.
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