# Approved Manufacturer List (AML)

> Source: https://netray.co/glossary/approved-manufacturer-list
> Publisher: Netray (netray.co), AI and integration engineering for ERP and manufacturing systems.
> Section: Glossary

## Short answer

An Approved Manufacturer List (AML) lists the specific manufacturer and manufacturer part numbers (MPNs) that engineering has approved to satisfy a single internal component part number. It lets purchasing buy alternates without a BOM change.

## Aliases

- AML
- approved vendor list for components
- manufacturer part number alternates
- AVL

## Category

manufacturing

## Full Definition

In electronics, one internal part number such as a 10 uF 16 V capacitor can be satisfied by several manufacturer parts that meet the same form, fit and function. The AML records each approved manufacturer and MPN, often ranked by preference. Purchasing and the buyer choose among them based on price, availability and lead time without issuing an engineering change for every substitution.

The AML is related to but not the same as an approved vendor list (AVL). The AML approves who makes the part; the AVL approves who you buy from, such as a franchised distributor. In counterfeit-sensitive sectors, buying only from the manufacturer or authorised distributors listed is a compliance requirement.

In ERP, the AML shows up as an item-manufacturer cross reference or alternate item-source structure, for example manufacturer part number records on an item in Infor, NetSuite or SAP. Receiving verifies that the manufacturer and MPN on the packing slip and reel label exist on the AML, and records manufacturer and lot or date code for traceability.

Approvals are managed through change control, and a PLM system often owns the AML with the ERP receiving a synchronised copy.

## Why It Matters

- A broad AML reduces line-down risk during shortages and allocation periods.
- Receiving against the AML blocks unapproved or counterfeit-risk parts from entering stock.
- Customers in regulated sectors audit which manufacturers are approved for each part.
- An accurate AML shortens quoting because buyers can compare real prices across approved sources.

## In Practice

Internal part 300-1045 (100 kilohm resistor, 0402) has an AML of three manufacturers. A shipment arrives from a fourth manufacturer because the distributor substituted. Receiving inspection compares the MPN on the label against the AML, rejects the lot to quarantine, and the buyer requests engineering review before any use.

## Faq

### What is the difference between AML and AVL?

**Answer:** The AML approves which manufacturers and part numbers can fill an item. The AVL approves which suppliers you may buy from.

### Does adding an alternate to the AML change the BOM?

**Answer:** No. The BOM keeps the internal part number; the AML controls which manufacturer parts can be used for it.

### Who owns the AML?

**Answer:** Usually engineering or component engineering, often in a PLM system, with the ERP holding a copy for purchasing and receiving.

## Search terms

what is an AML, approved manufacturer list, AML vs AVL, manufacturer part number alternates, component second source, AML in ERP

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