Procurement Glossary
Manufacturer part number (MPN): Definition, meaning, and application in Procurement
November 19, 2025
The manufacturer part number (MPN) is a unique identifier that manufacturers assign to their products in order to precisely label them and distinguish them from other items. In procurement, the manufacturer part number (MPN) enables exact product identification, reduces mix-ups, and optimizes ordering processes. Find out below what an MPN is exactly, what methods exist for managing it, and how you Procurement it strategically in Procurement .
Key Facts
- Unique product labeling by the manufacturer for precise identification
- Reduces ordering errors and mix-ups in procurement by up to 85%
- Enables automated catalog comparisons and price comparisons
- Differs from internal item numbers and EAN codes
- Essential for digital procurement platforms and e-procurement systems
Contents
Definition: Manufacturer Part Number (MPN) – Meaning and Benefits
The manufacturer part number is an alphanumeric code that producers use to uniquely identify their items.
Basic characteristics of MPN
An MPN has specific characteristics that distinguish it from other identifiers:
- Uniqueness within the manufacturer's product range
- Immutability throughout the product lifecycle
- Manufacturer-specific award logic and structure
- Direct link to technical specifications
MPN vs. other product identifiers
Unlike EAN codes or internal material number systems, the MPN is assigned exclusively by the manufacturer. While EAN codes are trade-related, the MPN is used for technical product identification and remains constant even across different distributors.
The importance of MPN in Procurement
For procurement organizations, MPN enables precise material classification and supports attribute maintenance in the material master. It forms the basis for automated procurement processes and significantly reduces manual sources of error.
Methods and procedures
The systematic recording and management of manufacturer part numbers requires structured approaches and best practices.
MPN recording and data quality
Successful MPN management begins with systematic collection directly from manufacturer sources. Data stewards take responsibility for data quality and ensure that all MPNs are recorded correctly and completely.
- Direct manufacturer data retrieval via APIs
- Validation through cross-referencing with product catalogs
- Regular updates in case of product changes
Integration into master data processes
The MPN is integrated as a central element in master data processes and linked to other identifiers. This enables end-to-end product tracking from Procurement use.
Automated MPN management
Modern ETL processes in Procurement automate MPN entry and maintenance. Machine learning algorithms recognize patterns and assist in assigning new products to existing categories.
Tacto Intelligence
Combines deep procurement knowledge with the most powerful AI agents for strong Procurement.
Key KPIs for manufacturer part number (MPN)
Measurable indicators enable the evaluation of MPN management quality and its impact on procurement processes.
MPN coverage
The proportion of items with fully recorded MPNs indicates the data quality in the material master. A high coverage rate of over 95% is desirable and is continuously monitored by data quality KPIs.
Error rate in MPN assignments
The number of incorrect MPN assignments per 1,000 order items measures the accuracy of product identification. Values below 0.5% are considered the benchmark for excellent data quality.
Degree of automation in MPN maintenance
The proportion of MPNs that are automatically recorded and maintained demonstrates the efficiency of the master data processes. A standardization level of over 80% significantly reduces manual effort and improves data currency.
Risks, dependencies and countermeasures
The handling of manufacturer part numbers involves specific risks that can be minimized by taking appropriate measures.
Data quality risks
Incomplete or incorrect MPNs lead to ordering errors and delivery delays. Duplicate detection and systematic data cleansing significantly reduce these risks.
- Implementation of validation rules
- Regular data quality checks
- Automated plausibility checks
manufacturer dependencies
Dependence on manufacturer-specific numbering systems can become problematic when changing suppliers. A well-thought-out supplier strategy and alternative identification methods create flexibility.
System integration challenges
Different MPN formats make it difficult to integrate different systems. Standardized match-merge rules and uniform data models solve this problem.
.avif)
Practical example
An automotive supplier implements an MPN-based procurement system for electronic components. By systematically recording manufacturer part numbers, the company reduces ordering errors by 78% and shortens procurement time by an average of 2.3 days. Automated MPN validation prevents confusion between similar components and enables accurate cost comparisons between different suppliers.
- Recording of all MPNs in a central catalog
- Integration into the ERP system with automatic validation
- Training of purchasing teams on the correct use of MPNs
- Continuous monitoring of data quality
Current developments and effects
Digitization and the use of artificial intelligence are fundamentally changing the way manufacturer part numbers are handled.
AI-supported MPN detection
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the automatic recognition and assignment of MPNs. Image recognition algorithms can extract part numbers directly from product photos, while natural language processing analyzes product descriptions and identifies MPNs.
Blockchain-based authentication
Blockchain technology enables the tamper-proof verification of MPNs and creates transparent supply chains. This is particularly relevant for critical components and spare parts, where authenticity is crucial.
Standardization and interoperability
Industry-wide initiatives promote the standardization of MPN formats and their integration into UNSPSC and eCl@ss classification systems. This significantly improves interoperability between different systems and trading partners.
Conclusion
The manufacturer part number (MPN) is an indispensable tool for precise product identification and efficient procurement processes. Its systematic management significantly reduces error rates and enables automated purchasing processes. With advancing digitalization and AI integration, the MPN is becoming a key element in data-driven procurement strategies. Companies that invest in high-quality MPN systems create sustainable competitive advantages through optimized processes and reduced procurement costs.
FAQ
What distinguishes an MPN from an EAN?
The MPN is assigned by the manufacturer for technical product identification and remains constant across all sales channels. The EAN, on the other hand, is a standard barcode that can vary depending on the packaging or sales unit. An MPN is product-specific, while an EAN is sales unit-specific.
How can the quality of MPN data be ensured?
Through systematic validation directly with the manufacturer, regular data comparisons, and automated plausibility checks. Data stewards continuously monitor data quality and implement corrective measures in the event of deviations. Standardized recording processes and employee training also help.
What role does the MPN play in supplier selection?
MPNs enable precise price comparisons between different distributors of the same product and create transparency regarding availability. They support the evaluation of supplier alternatives and facilitate negotiations through clear product specifications. This leads to better purchasing conditions and reduced procurement risks.
How does digitization affect MPN processes?
AI-based systems automate MPN detection and assignment, while APIs enable direct data exchange with manufacturers. Blockchain technology creates tamper-proof authentication, and machine learning continuously optimizes data quality. These developments reduce manual effort and significantly improve accuracy.
.png)
.png)
.png)
