🧾🧱 What Should You Include in a Retail Fixture BOM (Bill of Materials)?

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Article Overview

Creating a display fixture without a structured BOM is […]

Creating a display fixture without a structured BOM is like trying to build a house without a blueprint. When brands skip this step or keep it too simple, projects get delayed, costs balloon, and parts go missing at rollout. A poor BOM doesn’t just confuse factories—it slows down sourcing, misaligns departments, and risks your store opening timeline.

At Samtop Display, we turn complex fixture systems into scalable, repeatable kits—starting with an operationally intelligent BOM that works across design, production, logistics, and even client approvals.

✅ Featured Snippet Summary

A well-crafted BOM (Bill of Materials) for retail displays should include: part codes, descriptions, material type, finish, size, quantity, and any special notes—covering not only the main fixture components, but also lights, graphics, hardware, and packaging.

Display fixture BOM example with material and part codes
Display fixture BOM example with material and part codes

Why This Matters: A Good BOM = Faster Production + Lower Error Rate

Think of your BOM as the single source of truth that connects your design drawing, procurement team, cost file, and manufacturer. When it's clean and comprehensive, your entire project runs smoother.

Read how we support global fixture rollouts with modular BOM templates →

🔧 What Is a BOM in Retail Display Projects?

A Bill of Materials (BOM) is a structured list of all parts, materials, and components needed to manufacture and assemble a retail fixture. Each line tells you:

  • What is required
  • What it’s made of
  • How it’s finished
  • Where it goes
  • How many you need
  • How it connects to the design drawing or exploded view

✅ A proper BOM supports quoting, sourcing, QC, packing, and field install—all in one.

🧾 Key Sections to Include in a Display Fixture BOM

FieldPurpose
Part NumberUnique code for traceability
DescriptionShort, clear name (e.g., “Base plinth left”)
MaterialMDF, PET, acrylic, steel, etc.
Finish / ColorPantone/RAL code, gloss %, laminate type
Size (L×W×H)In mm or inches
QuantityPer fixture, or per rollout
NotesSpecial hardware, edge spec, LED cutouts

Make sure it links to your CAD or 3D exploded drawing for easy part matching.

📦 What to Include in the BOM Scope?

Your BOM should reflect the full scope of the fixture system:

  • Panels: sides, base, top, header, backboard
  • Surface Finishes: laminates, vinyl, powder-coat
  • Graphics: print panels, magnetic overlays
  • Lighting: strips, diffusers, LED drivers
  • Hardware: screws, brackets, cam locks, feet
  • Packaging: foam, corner guards, crates
  • Accessories: logo tiles, tester trays, mirrors

✅ Include reusable or swappable parts—even if they’re used across SKUs or campaigns.

📐 BOM Entry Sample (Partial View)

Part CodeDescriptionMaterialFinishSize (mm)Qty/UnitNotes
P-001Base PlinthMDFMatte Black PET1200×400×1801Includes cable hole
P-002Side Panel LSteelWhite Powder Coat1000×40×2001Welded
L-001LED StripLED + PCB4000K900mm112V with driver
G-001Graphic HeaderPETGloss UV Print800×300×21Magnetic

🛠️ Tips for Smarter BOM Structuring

  • Use part codes linked to CAD for version control
  • Centralize finishes: reuse material IDs to cut confusion
  • Modular grouping: sort BOM into sub-kits (base, light set, graphic zone)
  • Add supplier or source fields for pre-approved parts
  • Split unit vs. rollout quantity: helpful in mass production

Need help matching your BOM to multi-market rollout specs? →

Visual Merchandising Solutions

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💬 FAQ

Q: Should packaging be in the BOM?
✅ Yes. Crates, corner foam, even label materials affect cost and shipping weight.

Q: Can I localize a BOM for different regions?
✅ Absolutely. Keep one master BOM and adjust for voltage (LED), fire rating, or labeling needs per market.

Q: How do I keep my BOM version-controlled?
✅ Use revision codes (e.g., BOM v1.2) and lock them to each drawing submission round.

Q: Can I share a simplified BOM with clients?
✅ Yes—create a client-facing version (no costing) for transparency or future updates.

✅ Conclusion: A Smart BOM Powers Every Part of Production

✔️ Include panels, hardware, lighting, finish, and packaging
✔️ Use structured part codes tied to CAD
✔️ Make it usable by sourcing, QC, and installation
✔️ Plan for scale, clarity, and global rollout adaptation

At Samtop, we don’t just build fixtures—we build systems. That starts with a BOM that gets everyone aligned.

📩 Need Help Creating or Cleaning Up Your BOM?

We offer:

  • Master BOM templates with built-in drawing links
  • Multi-material finish libraries
  • Rollout-ready Excel/ERP formats
  • Modular system kits per store or region

📧 Email: yan@samtop.com
🌍 Visit us at Samtop.com


Bob

About Bob

Hi, I’m Bob, the funder of SamTop.com, Our company makes visual merchandising props, retail display stands and window display decoration for many years now, and the purpose of this article is to share with you the knowledge related to retail displays from a Chinese supplier’s perspective.

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