Work in progress (WIP) is inventory that has started production but isn't finished - cut pieces, partially sewn garments, anything between raw materials and packed goods.
Where WIP Sits
WIP accumulates at every stage: cut bundles waiting for sewing, partially sewn garments moving down the line, finished pieces waiting for pressing or QC, and passed goods waiting in the packing queue. Walk any factory floor and the racks, tables, and trolleys of WIP are the most visible sign of production in motion.
Managing WIP
- Too much WIP - cash tied up in unfinished goods, and piles that hide quality problems
- Too little WIP - sewing lines starve and operators sit idle waiting for work
- Lean manufacturing - the goal is minimum WIP: just enough to keep every station fed
WIP and Lead Time
WIP levels directly affect how fast orders flow through the factory. Every unit sitting in a queue adds waiting time to the order's total lead time. Factories that control WIP ship faster - which is why WIP tracking is a core production-management discipline.
FAQs
- How is WIP measured?
- In units or in days of production. Factories track WIP by department.
- Is WIP an asset?
- On the balance sheet yes - but operationally, excess WIP is waste to reduce.
- What's a healthy WIP level?
- Enough to keep lines fed, no more. Varies by factory layout and style complexity.
Glossary: see the full fashion glossary for more apparel industry terms.