What Is Serial Production? Examples, Use Cases, and How It Works in Companies
Serial production is a manufacturing method in which goods are produced in defined series or batches, rather than as individual, made-to-order items.
A company manufactures a larger number of identical products at once—for example, 500 chairs, 2,000 cosmetic packages, or 1,000 plates.
This approach is far more cost-effective in many scenarios. In fact, it revolutionized manufacturing over the last 200 years and became the foundation of what we now call mass production.
Why do companies use serial production?
Production in series allows companies to achieve a level of efficiency that is difficult to reach with one-off manufacturing.
Instead of repeatedly setting up machines for every single item, employees focus on producing one type of product. This results in fewer downtimes, a lower risk of errors, and more predictable costs. This is especially important in industries where repeatability and speed are critical.
How does serial production work?
Serial production is planned in advance. First, the size of the production series is defined. Then the production line, raw materials, and work orders are prepared.
The process typically follows a clear sequence: material picking, production, quality control, and storage of the finished batch.
In many companies, ERP systems are used to manage and control serial production, significantly streamlining the entire process.
Example of a serial production process
A bicycle manufacturer plans a production run of 1,000 units of a single model.
Based on demand, the ERP system generates production orders, reserves components (frames, wheels, chains), assigns workers, and launches the assembly line. Production runs without changes until the planned quantity is completed. After that, the line is retooled and the next series starts—for example, a different model or color.
Doing all of this “the old way”—like a traditional shoemaker who made shoes entirely by hand, step by step, from the sole to the laces and final polishing—would be practically unimaginable today. The efficiency gains of serial production are enormous.
When does serial production make sense?
This model works best when:
- demand for a product is repetitive and predictable,
- changeover costs are significant and should be minimized,
- the company wants to maintain consistent quality and efficiency,
- logistics and warehousing are optimized for larger batches.
In practice, serial production is often combined with MRP planning, which helps avoid overproduction and optimize raw material usage.
What can be achieved with serial production?
A serial approach enables:
- shorter unit production times,
- better utilization of machines and workforce,
- consistent quality at scale,
- more accurate forecasting and purchasing planning,
- the ability to maintain inventory buffers for best-selling products.
All of this translates primarily into better cost control and faster response to market demand.
Does serial production have limitations?
Yes. It is not suitable when every customer order is unique or when production requires frequent customization. It can also lead to overproduction if demand forecasts are inaccurate.
That is why many companies combine serial production with other models—such as make-to-order (MTO) for customized products, or just-in-time (JIT) production when low inventory levels are a priority.
FAQ
What is serial production?
It is the production of a larger number of identical products in one batch, instead of individual made-to-order items.
Which industries use serial production?
There is no single dominant industry, but it is particularly effective in furniture, food, electronics, automotive, and cosmetics—where scale and repeatability matter.
Is serial production the same as mass production?
Not exactly. Mass production usually means continuous, very large-scale output (e.g. 100,000 units per day). Serial production can be smaller and divided into batches.
What are the advantages of serial production?
Lower unit costs, reduced downtime energy consumption, consistent quality, and better work planning.
Can serial production be automated?
Yes. Many companies implement ERP systems and automated production lines to support planning, execution, and quality control within a serial production model.
Do you think your production process could work better?
Serial production may be the right choice if repeatability and efficiency are your priorities. Contact us to see whether your company has the potential to improve production-related processes.
