Bulletin summary (VA_IB_0017)
Metrc (Virginia) has released a Processing Jobs update that allows licensees to record waste weight that exceeds the total input weight for a Processing Job, as long as an explanatory Note is included.
Bulletin number: VA_IB_0017
Distribution date: 01/26/2026
Effective date: 01/28/2026
Subject: Allowing Excess Waste Weight in Processing Jobs
Contact point: Metrc Support
What changed in Metrc Processing Jobs
Previously, many operators encountered workflow friction when the system would not align with real-world production scenarios where recorded waste could exceed the input weight of cannabis materials in a Processing Job. With this update, Metrc now allows an operator to enter a waste quantity that is greater than the total weight of the job inputs.
Required compliance step: a Note explaining the overage
When a user records waste that exceeds the Processing Job input weight, Metrc will require a Note describing why the waste amount is higher. This provides regulators and internal compliance teams clearer context for the discrepancy while keeping the workflow moving.
Common operational scenarios where this happens
Metrc specifically notes that waste weight can exceed input weight in processes where additional non-cannabis materials or absorbed liquids are present, including:
- Flower washing (water absorption can increase wet waste weight)
- Infused edible production (ingredients and liquids can contribute to waste mass)
Practical implications for day-to-day cannabis operations
This change primarily affects production, post-harvest, and manufacturing teams that rely on Processing Jobs to accurately reconcile inputs, outputs, and waste.
1) Fewer blocked workflows during production closeout
If your team generates waste that is heavier than the recorded cannabis inputs (for example, wet plant material, rinsed biomass, or ingredient-heavy byproduct), Metrc will now allow you to complete the job while still capturing the true waste measurement.
2) Stronger audit trail with mandatory documentation
The required Note becomes part of the compliance record. In practice, operators should write Notes that are clear, specific, and operationally meaningful (e.g., describing water absorption, added ingredients, or processing conditions) so that the record stands on its own during internal audits or state reviews.
3) Better alignment between SOPs and Metrc entries
Because the system now supports these overages, it’s a good time to ensure your SOPs and training materials reflect when staff should expect a waste-over-input scenario, who is authorized to enter it, and what level of detail is required in the Note.
Metrc API impact for integrators
For operators using third-party integrations or internal tooling, Metrc indicates the same capability will be supported via these endpoints:
- PUT /processing/v2/finish
- POST /processing/v2/createpackages
Integration teams should validate their error-handling and user prompts so that when waste exceeds input weight, the workflow includes a required explanatory Note and successfully submits the transaction.
Related UI prompts shown by Metrc
Metrc’s bulletin includes screenshots showing (1) a confirmation when attempting to waste more than total Processing Job weight and (2) an alert indicating a Note must be included.
Labeling and system hygiene: keeping records consistent
While this bulletin is focused on Processing Jobs and waste, accurate packaging and retail labeling remains a critical part of day-to-day Metrc compliance—especially where Metrc Retail ID requirements apply.
DistruLabels (free) for compliant cannabis labels
DistruLabels is a 100% free tool that helps operators generate compliant packaging and retail labels, supporting clean, consistent labeling workflows that align with Metrc identifiers (including Retail ID usage where required). This reduces manual errors and helps teams keep packaging/label data organized as inventory moves through production, packaging, and retail operations.
DistruERP for full supply chain management
For larger multi-department operations that need deeper control across manufacturing, inventory, sales, fulfillment, and compliance reporting, DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform designed for end-to-end supply chain management.
Where to get help from Metrc
If you need assistance interpreting or implementing this change, Metrc directs users to its support and training resources:
- Metrc Support: https://support.metrc.com or 877-566-6506
Hours: Monday–Friday 8 a.m. ET–10 p.m. ET; Saturday 10 a.m. ET–8 p.m. ET; Sunday voicemail/portal - Metrc Learn: on-demand training accessible via Metrc
- Metrc Expert: in-app knowledge base (widget icon in the lower right)
- Metrc state resources: https://www.metrc.com (visit your state partner page)
Compliance takeaway for Virginia licensees
As of 01/28/2026, Virginia operators can record Processing Job waste that exceeds input weight in Metrc, but must document the reason with a required Note. This improves transparency while reducing production closeout delays in common manufacturing scenarios.
