Article 59: How does ASN processing work in SAP MM end-to-end?

What is the complete ASN process flow in SAP?

The ASN process in SAP MM involves multiple system components working together to provide seamless shipment notification and receiving automation from initial purchase order through final goods receipt.

What are the key process steps?

Step 1: Purchase Order Creation and Release

Initial Setup:

• Purchase Order created in SAP (transaction ME21N)
• Supplier notification of PO requirements
• Confirmation control configured for ASN processing
• Delivery schedule established with supplier

Required Configuration:

• Confirmation control key assigned to PO item
• ASN indicators activated in vendor master
• EDI parameters set up for electronic communication
• Inbound delivery type configured for ASN processing

Step 2: ASN Creation by Supplier

Supplier Actions:

• Goods prepared for shipment at supplier location
• ASN document created with shipment details
• Electronic transmission via EDI, web portal, or email
• Confirmation of successful transmission

ASN Content:

• Purchase order references and line item details
• Actual quantities being shipped
• Carrier information and tracking numbers
• Expected delivery date and time
• Packaging details and handling unit information

Step 3: ASN Receipt and Processing in SAP

System Processing:

• IDoc received from EDI subsystem or manual entry
• Automatic validation against purchase order data
• Inbound delivery document created automatically
• Status updates reflected in purchase order

Validation Checks:

• PO reference exists and is valid
• Material numbers match PO line items
• Quantities within acceptable tolerance limits
• Delivery dates align with PO requirements

Step 4: Warehouse Preparation

Planning Activities:

• Dock scheduling based on expected arrival
• Resource allocation for receiving activities
• Equipment preparation (forklifts, scanners, etc.)
• Storage location assignment

System Updates:

• Inbound delivery visible in warehouse management
• Expected goods receipt reflected in stock planning
• MRP impact considered for planning runs
• Notification sent to receiving personnel

Step 5: Physical Goods Receipt

Receiving Process:

• Goods arrive at receiving dock
• Physical inspection against ASN details
• Quantity verification and quality check
• Goods receipt posting in SAP (MIGO or VL02N)

System Updates:

• Stock levels increased automatically
• Purchase order status updated to received
• ASN status changed to completed
• Financial documents created for valuation

What systems integrate with ASN processing?

EDI/B2B Integration:

• Electronic transmission of ASN data
• Standard formats (EDIFACT DESADV, ANSI X12 856)
• Automated processing without manual intervention
• Error handling and exception management

Warehouse Management:

• Inbound delivery processing
• Put-away optimization based on ASN data
• Cross-docking identification
• Labor planning and resource allocation

Transportation Management:

• Carrier integration and tracking
• Route optimization and scheduling
• Delivery appointment coordination
• Freight cost allocation

What happens when ASN doesn't match reality?

Quantity Discrepancies:

• Over-delivery handling and approval processes
• Under-delivery notification and follow-up
• Partial receipt processing and documentation
• Supplier communication for resolution

Quality Issues:

• Damage notification and claim processing
• Quality hold procedures
• Return authorization if needed
• Supplier performance impact tracking

Timing Variations:

• Early delivery management and storage
• Late delivery expediting and customer notification
• Revised scheduling and resource reallocation
• Impact assessment on production and customer orders