ABSTRACT
The materials management process combines and integrates the individual functions of project planning, material takeoff, vendor inquiry and evaluation, expediting and transportation, field material control, and warehousing. Control of materials in the field is an integral part of the overall material management and control system that should be initiated during the engineering phase of the project. Field purchasing can include permanent materials, consumable materials, temporary materials, subcontracts and service agreements. Warehousing procedures must address the preservation of materials while in storage and until equipment is placed in operation. Field warehousing space and storage yards are expensive and must be minimized. Inventory procedures should clearly identify where material is stored and the quantity of each item. Consumables are usually defined as materials that are "used up" or consumed during the construction project. Substantial amounts of money can be involved in the disposal of surplus, and thus surplus materials represent an asset to the owner or contractor.
