Bundles & BOMs: Overview
Synplex supports three distinct patterns for products that are made up of multiple components. Choosing the right one determines how inventory is tracked, how demand flows to components, and which Synplex features you need to configure.
The Three Types at a Glance
| Virtual Bundle | Pre-assembly Kit | Assembly-to-Order | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sold as | Parent SKU | Parent SKU | Parent SKU |
| Inventory deducted from | Components (at order) | Parent SKU (at order) | Parent SKU (at order) |
| When is it assembled? | Never — virtual only | Before the order arrives | After the order arrives |
| Finished goods stock held? | No | Yes | No |
| Synplex feature needed | None | BOM + Production Orders | BOM |
| Shopify Bundles compatible? | ✓ Yes | — | — |
Decision Tree
- If you do not physically assemble the product → Virtual Bundle
- Shopify or your bundle app explodes it at order creation
- No BOM setup needed in Synplex
- If you assemble before the order (batch production, hold finished goods stock) → Pre-assembly Kit
- Create a BOM (type: Pre-assembled)
- Raise Production Orders to build stock
- If you assemble after the order (build per order, no finished goods stock) → Assembly-to-Order
- Create a BOM (type: Assemble-to-order)
- Synplex explodes demand to components
Which Synplex Features Are Involved?
Virtual Bundles
No configuration needed. Because Shopify explodes virtual bundles into component line items at order creation, Synplex receives individual component demand automatically. Your forecasts and replenishment recommendations for components stay accurate without any BOM setup.
Pre-assembly Kits
Requires both BOMs and Production Orders.
- The BOM defines which components make up the parent SKU and in what quantities.
- Production Orders record when you build a batch: components are consumed, parent stock increases.
- Synplex uses the BOM to calculate buildable quantity, identify bottleneck components, and generate replenishment recommendations for components.
Assembly-to-Order
Requires BOMs only.
- The BOM defines the component structure.
- Synplex explodes demand from the parent SKU down to components so your replenishment planning reflects what needs to be on hand to fulfil incoming orders.
- No Production Orders are needed because no finished goods inventory is held.
Related Pages
Questions? Contact support@synplex.dev