> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.elevatedsignals.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Materials plan

> Packaging needs and order-by dates worked back from the forecast.

Work back from demand to packaging needs and order dates. These are planning numbers, not a production schedule or a purchasing system.

## Finished beer before packaging

Finished beer already in stock at the production facility covers demand first. Only the balance needs packaging. Taproom stock is excluded. Stock that isn't matched to a product can't cover its demand.

Expand **Finished-stock coverage by SKU** to check the allocation.

## Shortfalls and order dates

The table shows which packs can't be filled in which weeks, what runs out, and the order-by date. Order dates work back from the packing week using the lead time and a safety buffer. Shared items (such as lids) are used once across products; shortages don't carry forward to the next week.

See [Check packaging order dates](https://docs.elevatedsignals.ai/essence/how-to/check-packaging-order-dates.md).

## Packaging inputs

Packaging stock, open orders, the pieces each pack needs and lead times are editable planning inputs. Some lead times came from the brewery; others are assumed and labelled as such. Save every change with a name and a note.

> [!WARNING]
>
> The page doesn't place orders. Check the earliest order date and what runs out before discussing an order with a supplier.


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