Understanding Shape Codes and Description Formatting

What Are Shape Codes?

Shape codes are short standardized abbreviations that identify types of materials during SBOM entry. They are followed by dimensional details.

Correct use of shape codes ensures:

• Accurate sorting and nesting
• Consistent reporting
• Proper unit weight calculations

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Basic Format

Shape codes follow this pattern:

[Shape Code] [Dimensions]

Examples:

• W 10 x 22 – Wide flange beam
• PL 1/2 x 12 – Plate
• TS 4 x 2 x 3/16 – Tube steel
• SI #101 CASTING – Special item by each

Descriptions are space-sensitive, so be sure to include spaces exactly as shown.

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Common Shape Codes

Code	Description	Example
W, WT	Wide Flange, Tee	W 10 x 22
C, MC	Channel	C 6 x 10.5
L	Angle	L 3 x 3 x 3/8
PL	Plate (fractional)	PL 1/2 x 15 3/4
PLD	Plate (decimal)	PL .500 x 15.75
BR	Flat Bar	BR 3/8 x 4
SQ, RD	Square/Round Rod	SQ 3/4 / RD 5/8
TS	Tube (Rect/Square)	TS 4 x 4 x 1/4
TO	Tube (Round)	TO 3 x 1/4
PI	Pipe	PI 4 x 40
SI	Special Item (each)	SI #101 CASTING
SA	Special Item (area)	SA 1/8″ x 36 x 48
SL	Special Item (length)	SL #501 20′-0″
PN	Part Number Item	PN WAGWB1000

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Entering Special Items

Use SI, SA, SL, or PN for items not covered by standard shapes. These items can be tied to a category or manually entered.

You can create and manage these categories in the Materials Database.

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Invalid Entry Warnings

If the format or shape code is invalid:

• A warning message will appear
• You can correct it immediately or leave the line flagged for later

Lines with invalid descriptions will not be used in cutting lists or reports until fixed.