Metrc (West Virginia) issued Support Bulletin WV_IB_0045 to notify licensed processors about new “bulk” item categories going live in Metrc on May 4, 2026, including how to use them for work-in-progress (WIP) manufacturing and which lab test batch types to select.
Bulletin details (WV_IB_0045)
Bulletin number: WV_IB_0045
Distribution: Metrc Support Bulletin
Bulletin date: 04/14/2026
Effective date in Metrc: 05/04/2026
Subject: New Bulk Item categories
Issued by: Metrc, in conjunction with the West Virginia Office of Medical Cannabis (OMC)
New bulk item categories added in West Virginia Metrc
Effective Monday, May 4, 2026, West Virginia processor facilities will see new bulk item categories available in Metrc. These categories are intended for intermediate forms during manufacturing (not finished, retail-ready items).
• Liquid Tincture (Bulk) — volume based
• Pills (Bulk) — weight based
• Topical (Bulk) — weight based
How processors should use “Bulk” vs. count-based categories
Metrc’s guidance is that these bulk categories are appropriate for WIP and intermediate material tracking while product is still being made (for example, staged tincture solution before final bottling, or topical base before it is portioned into packaged units).
Final form items should still be created using the applicable count-based item categories for each product type. In practical terms, this means your production workflow typically moves from a bulk intermediate item (tracked by weight or volume) into packaged, countable units (tracked as individual sellable items) when you are ready to create finished goods.
This distinction matters for day-to-day compliance because it helps keep Metrc inventory aligned with how material actually exists on the production floor: bulk material is measured (weight/volume), while finished goods are sold and reconciled as units (count).
Lab testing: which test batch type to select
The bulletin states that the lab test batch type that correlates with each of the new bulk item categories is:
• Infused Products
Metrc also notes that R&D lab test batches are available for selection with these new item categories, which can be useful when you are running developmental batches while still keeping your testing records properly categorized.
Operational implications for West Virginia processors
Adding these categories can reduce workarounds and improve accuracy when recording intermediate production steps. To stay audit-ready after May 4, 2026, processor teams should ensure internal procedures match the new configuration.
Update item setup and production SOPs: If you previously forced intermediate inventory into count-based categories (or into a less-specific bulk category), you may need to revise how you define items and at which step you convert WIP into finished, count-based packaged goods.
Train staff on units of measure: Liquid Tincture (Bulk) is volume-based, while Pills (Bulk) and Topical (Bulk) are weight-based. Confirm that scales, measuring tools, and data entry practices support consistent units to prevent reconciliation issues.
Align testing workflow: Ensure QA teams and production staff consistently choose the Infused Products test batch type (or R&D where applicable) when submitting these bulk intermediates for testing.
Prepare labeling and Retail ID workflows: While these bulk categories are intended for intermediate tracking, many operations still need internal labels for in-process containers and then compliant final labels at packaging. DistruLabels is a 100% free tool for creating compliant packaging and retail labels and can help teams stay consistent with Metrc Retail ID-related labeling needs as inventory moves from bulk intermediates into finished, sellable units.
Consider full ERP support for complex operations: For larger processor organizations that need end-to-end supply chain management beyond labeling—such as purchasing, production planning, inventory controls, and compliance workflows—DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform designed to support multi-stage manufacturing and broader operational management.
Metrc support and training resources
If you need help implementing these changes in your West Virginia facility, Metrc lists the following options.
Metrc Support: Submit and track a case via the Support portal at https://support.metrc.com or call 877-566-6506.
Support hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. ET–10 p.m. ET; Saturday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. ET; Sunday, voicemail or portal only.
Metrc Learn: Metrc’s on-demand training platform is accessible directly or via the Support drop-down inside Metrc.
Metrc Expert: Use the in-app knowledge base (widget in the lower right) for step-by-step guides and searchable help content.
Metrc.com: Visit https://www.metrc.com and navigate to West Virginia’s partner page for state-specific training links and resources.
