09.04.2026
09.04.2026
Jörg Schmidt Head of Vendormanagement
Effective process optimization and well thought-out C-parts management are the key factors in actively reducing costs and increasing security of supply within the company. Particularly in the case of C-parts, whose value is low but whose process costs often account for a large proportion of total costs, digitalization, automation and targeted supplier selection can generate immense savings.
At a glance
- Supplier selection as a success factor: Careful selection and bundling of suppliers - ideally supported by digital platforms and framework agreements - ensures stable conditions, a high level of supply security and various process simplifications.
- Process optimization through digitalization : The automation and digitalization of all procurement processes - from the determination of requirements to invoice verification - reduces process costs and noticeably increases efficiency in purchasing and warehousing.
- Qualification and reliability of manufacturers: Qualified C-parts manufacturers have verifiable experience, relevant certifications and rely on standardized quality controls to ensure consistently high product quality. The required purchasing volume of each component is always in stock.
What is C-parts management and why is it important?
C-parts management encompasses all measures for optimizing the procurement and storage processes for C-parts - i.e. small parts with a low procurement value but a high procurement quantity. C-parts include screws, nuts, seals, drawing parts, tools, connecting elements and fastening technology as well as many other operating resources for manufacturing products.
C-parts are classified according to the ABC analysis. A-parts are less common, but have a high individual value. B parts have a medium product value and medium use. The process costs are significantly lower for A and B parts, which is why they have less of an impact on overall costs despite their higher purchasing costs.
Objectives of C-parts management
The process costs for C-parts are often many times higher than the actual value of the goods. Effective management helps companies to make targeted savings in time, costs and resources in order to ensure security of supply.
The main objectives of C-parts management include
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- The optimization of procurement processes.
- Reducing the variety of suppliers and parts by bundling requirements and reducing the number of suppliers.
- Reducing process and procurement costs through digitalization, automation and standardization.
- Increasing security of supply by ensuring that companies have the required items in stock at all times.
- Reducing stock levels through optimized warehousing and the resulting lower capital commitment.
- Transparency and control through the creation of clear structures and an overview of stocks, orders and the associated costs.
- The targeted relief of the purchasing department and other departments involved in the company through standardized and automated processes in procurement and logistics.
Role of C-parts manufacturers
C-parts manufacturers play a central role in the industrial supply chain, even if their products usually only account for a small proportion of total costs. They ensure a reliable supply of standardized components(standard parts) such as screws, seals and fasteners. They therefore make a significant contribution to operational safety and efficiency. Especially in Industry 4.0, a continuous and reliable supply of C-parts is crucial in order to avoid production downtimes and increase a company's overall performance.
Specialization in mass production and standardization
Manufacturers of C-parts specialize in high-performance mass production and standardization of components. By producing large quantities, they promise competitive prices and ensure consistent quality. Standardization makes it possible to procure C-parts easily and cost-effectively, as they are offered by various suppliers. They are also available in large quantities. Mass production and standardization not only reduce procurement costs, but also simplify warehousing within the company, as well as replacement when necessary.
Quality control and certifications
Consistent quality control also speaks in favour of specialized C-parts manufacturers. They rely on certified processes - such as ISO 9001 - and carry out inspections at regular intervals to ensure compliance with quality standards and norms. These measures are crucial, as even minor deviations in standard parts can lead to disruptions in production.
Important: Appropriate certifications create trust and promise consistent, first-class product quality.
Cooperation with system suppliers or distributors
C-parts manufacturers often work closely with system suppliers and distributors to further improve the supply chain. System suppliers often take on the coordination and logistical tasks for various small parts. They create a central point of contact for customers for the procurement of their C-goods.
Through targeted cooperation, the procurement process as a whole is automated and stocks are aligned. Security of supply in the company is also increased. Especially in the context of intelligent e-procurement solutions and Kanban, companies benefit from the seamless integration of manufacturers into their efficient C-parts management.
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Read the report nowSelection criteria for a C-parts manufacturer
The selection of a suitable C-parts manufacturer is crucial for efficient and reliable supply in the industry. In addition to price and quality, other criteria are increasingly coming into focus these days that significantly influence the long-term success of cooperation with specialists.
Product variety and depth of range
With a broad and deep product range, many requirements can be covered by a single manufacturer. This simplifies procurement processes and actively reduces the variety of suppliers - a situation that is welcomed by the sales department.
Delivery capability and just-in-time options
High delivery reliability and the option of just-in-time deliveries are essential in order to minimize stock levels, avoid bottlenecks and keep production flexible at all times.
Digitalization & connection to e-procurement systems
Modern manufacturers offer interfaces to ERP and e-procurement systems, support automated ordering processes and enable seamless integration into digital procurement platforms to simplify repeat orders and optimize procurement processes.
Sustainability and environmental standards
Certifications, transparent environmental reports and compliance with social and environmental standards are becoming increasingly important and are therefore also an important prerequisite for long-term cooperation.
The future of C-parts sourcing
The procurement of C-Parts is developing rapidly, from manual individual orders to automated, digitally supported solutions. Innovative technologies such as AI, modern e-procurement platforms and a networked supply chain are revolutionizing the way companies identify, order and manage C-Parts. The focus here is on increasing efficiency, maximizing transparency and complying with sustainability standards.
Automation and AI in the ordering process
Artificial intelligence and automated systems analyze consumption data, forecast requirements and trigger orders independently. This reduces sources of error, avoids bottlenecks and speeds up the procurement process by significantly reducing administrative work.
Platform solutions and digital marketplaces
Digital logistics solutions and marketplaces such as simple system bring together a large number of suppliers and products in one place. They enable a greatly simplified search, transparent price comparison and centralized order processing. In the area of C-parts management, platforms such as simple system are indispensable for standardizing processes, saving costs and increasing the flexibility of your own purchasing.
Trends towards bundling C-parts with one supplier
More and more companies are opting to bundle their C-parts requirements with a few strategic partners. This reduces complexity, strengthens the negotiating position and simplifies storage and outsourcing. At the same time, costs can be saved through framework agreements and integrated supplier relationships thanks to improved conditions .
Frequently asked questions
What are the advantages of working with a specialized C-parts manufacturer?
Specialized C-parts manufacturers offer high delivery availability, defined quality standards and support efficient demand planning and process automation through digital solutions, which consequently saves time and costs.
How important is digitalization for C-parts manufacturers?
The process of digitalization is significant. Many C-parts manufacturers are directly integrated into ERP or e-procurement systems, which means that orders are processed more quickly, transparently and cost-effectively.
How can I find the right C-parts manufacturer for my company?
Digital procurement platforms such as simple system allow you to quickly compare suppliers, make a transparent selection and integrate new or existing suppliers into your own procurement processes.
Jörg Schmidt Head of Vendormanagement
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