Stock Transfer in Purchasing
Introduction

Stock transfer is a critical process in procurement, enabling businesses to efficiently move inventory between locations. In purchasing, stock transfers can be requested and monitored through various stock transfer documents, such as stock transport orders, purchase requisitions, and stock transport scheduling agreements. This guide provides an in-depth look at stock transfer processes, features, system behavior, and best practices to optimize your procurement workflow. 

Key Stock Transfer Documents in Purchasing

Stock transfers in purchasing involve three primary documents: 
  • Stock Transport Order (STO) – A formal request to transfer stock between plants.
  • Purchase Requisition (PR) – An internal document used to request a stock transfer.
  • Stock Transport Scheduling Agreement (STSA) – A pre-agreed contract for stock transfers over a period.

Essential Features of Stock Transfer in Purchasing

Availability Checking and Display
Verifying stock availability before initiating a transfer helps prevent order delays and material shortages. 

Automatic Availability Check

  • When modifying MRP-relevant data (e.g., quantity, date) in stock transfer documents, the system automatically checks stock availability.
  • Availability checks are configured in Customizing under Purchasing > Availability Check Rules.
  • In older purchase order versions (ME21), the system checks availability only after exiting the scheduling screen. 
Manual Availability Check – Enjoy Transactions (ME21N, ME51N)
  • Users can manually check stock availability by selecting Check Availability in STOs and PRs.
  • A confirmation proposal is provided based on stock availability and predefined rules.
  • In PRs, users can view an availability overview for stock status insights. 
System Behavior in Case of Material Shortage
When stock is insufficient, the system allows users to configure alerts and manage shortages effectively. 

Managing Partial Deliveries and Outbound Deliveries
Stock transfer documents support partial deliveries and outbound deliveries, ensuring flexibility in procurement. 
 

Step-by-Step Guide to Stock Transfer Transactions

Creating a Stock Transport Order (STO)
  • Go to Purchasing Menu > Purchase Order > Create > Vendor/Supplying Plant Known.
  • Select Order Type UB (Stock Transport Order) and Item Category U (Stock Transfer).
  • Enter the necessary data for all items.
  • Save the STO. 
Creating a Purchase Requisition (PR) for Stock Transfer
  • Go to Purchasing Menu > Requisition > Create.
  • Enter required data and select:
  • Item Category U or
  • A vendor with plant reference.
  • A saved and released Stock Transport Requisition can be converted into a Stock Transport Order. 

Conclusion

Stock transfer in purchasing is a vital process for efficient inventory management. By leveraging stock transport orders, purchase requisitions, and scheduling agreements, organizations can streamline their procurement workflows. Understanding system behavior, availability checks, and delivery settings ensures smooth operations, reducing material shortages and improving supply chain efficiency. 

FAQs on Stock Transfer in Purchasing

1. What is the difference between a Stock Transport Order and a Purchase Requisition?

A Stock Transport Order (STO) is a formal order for stock transfer, whereas a Purchase Requisition (PR) is an internal request that can later be converted into an STO. 

2. How does SAP handle stock availability checks in stock transfers?

SAP performs automatic availability checks when modifying MRP-relevant data and provides manual availability checks in ME21N and ME51N transactions. 

3. Can I allow partial deliveries in a stock transfer order?

Yes, SAP allows partial deliveries based on customer master settings or manual adjustments within stock transfer documents. 

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