Work Order Format Template

Standard work order format for tracking production jobs—includes item details, quantities, dates, and process steps.

What's Included in This Template

A standard work order format is essential for tracking production jobs from start to finish. This template helps you document order details, schedule production, allocate materials, and ensure timely delivery.

Key Sections in the Work Order Template

Section	Purpose	What to Fill
Work Order Number	Unique identifier for tracking	Use format: WO-MMYY-001 (e.g., WO-0226-045)
Customer Details	Identify who placed the order	Name, PO number, contact person
Product Specification	Define what to manufacture	Item code, name, drawing number, quantity
Process Routing	Sequence of operations	Cutting → Welding → Painting → Assembly
Material Requirement	Raw materials needed	Based on BOM (Bill of Materials)
Target Dates	Timeline management	Start date, Completion date, Delivery date

How to Use This Work Order Template

Step-by-Step Process

Receive Customer Order: Get confirmation from customer via email/PO. Note down delivery date and specifications.
Generate Work Order Number: Create unique WO number following your numbering system.
Fill Product Details: Enter item name, code, quantity, and attach technical drawing if available.
Define Process Steps: List each manufacturing operation in sequence: cutting, bending, welding, painting, etc.
List Material Requirements: From your BOM, specify raw materials needed with quantities.
Assign Resources: Allocate machines, operators, and shift timings.
Set Target Dates: Work backward from delivery date to set realistic start and completion dates.
Release to Shop Floor: Print and hand over copy to production supervisor with signature.

Real-World Example from an Indian Workshop

Scenario: A small metal fabrication unit in Pune receives an order for 500 steel brackets.

Work Order #: WO-0226-012
Customer: ABC Industries, PO #: PI/2026/078
Item: L-Bracket (Drawing: DRG-456)
Quantity: 500 Nos
Material Required: 50 kg MS Flat 50x6mm
Process: Cutting → Drilling → Bending → Powder Coating
Start Date: 12-Feb-2026
Delivery: 20-Feb-2026

This work order was distributed to cutting supervisor, drilling operator, bending machine operator, and painting contractor.

Customization Tips

Add Your Logo: Insert your company logo and GSTIN in the header.
Priority Flags: Add a “Priority” column (Normal/Urgent) to highlight rush orders.
Quality Checkpoints: Include specific inspection points after critical operations.
Actual vs. Planned: Add columns to record actual completion dates for performance tracking.
Barcode/QR Code: Generate a barcode for the WO number for easy scanning in digital systems.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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Missing BOM Reference: Not linking material requirements leads to production delays when materials are unavailable.
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Unclear Process Routing: Skipping detailed process steps causes confusion on the shop floor.
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No Version Control: If drawing changes, old WOs might reference outdated specifications.
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Ignoring Capacity: Creating WOs without checking machine availability causes schedule conflicts.

Best Practices

Sequential Numbering: Never skip WO numbers—it helps in auditing and tracking.
Attach Drawings: Always staple or attach technical drawings with the work order.
Daily Review: Production supervisor should review open WOs every morning.
Color Coding: Use colored paper for urgent orders (e.g., red for rush jobs).
Close Completed WOs: Mark completed work orders as “Closed” and file them for reference.

Related Resources

Guide

Production Planning Basics

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