01
VIN, OEM part number and SKU serve different roles
Use the VIN for the vehicle reference, the OEM number for the requested catalog item and the supplier number for the offered product. Assign the warehouse SKU to the approved stock configuration.
Do not assume that a number cast into a housing is the current orderable service number. Ask the catalog provider or dealer to identify the reference before it enters a purchase order.
02
Check replacement numbers and catalog notes
If a supplier proposes a newer number, ask for the catalog entry or manufacturer confirmation connecting it to the original request. Retain the direction of replacement, applicable vehicle conditions and any required companion parts.
A replacement reference must be reviewed for the intended application. Do not merge stock records until the technical owner has confirmed how earlier and later versions should be handled.
03
Review an aftermarket cross-reference
Ask the supplier to identify the application evidence, specification and revision for its proposed equivalent. Compare interfaces, dimensions, material requirements and kit contents as relevant to the project.
For China development, put open questions into the sample and drawing review. The customer’s technical approver records acceptance before a substitute is released for production.
04
Carry the approval into warehouse and order records
Build a controlled mapping from vehicle application to approved part number, supplier reference, SKU, sales unit and effective revision. Keep earlier stock identifiable when a number or specification changes.
If a return is reported as not fitting, retain the order reference, shipped SKU, label photos and customer’s application information. Route that evidence to the technical owner before changing the application claim.
05
Use the reference in a VIN EXPRESS project
Share the approved number, proposed alternatives, sample or drawing, quantity and decision owner when discussing sourcing and manufacturing. Agree how substitutions and revisions will be approved.
U.S. receiving, fulfillment and returns can use the resulting SKU and revision instructions within the agreed scope. A warehouse identity check does not establish interchangeability.
VIN EXPRESS / Decision checklist
Part-number approval checklist
- Separate VIN, OEM number, supplier reference and warehouse SKU.
- Retain the catalog date and application conditions.
- Document proposed replacement numbers and supporting evidence.
- Resolve interface, kit-content and revision differences.
- Record technical approval and treatment of earlier stock.
- Keep order and return evidence linked to the shipped revision.