What is the primary difference between special stock and unrestricted stock in SAP S/4HANA?

The primary difference between special stock and unrestricted stock in SAP S/4HANA lies in the nature of how the inventory is managed and utilized. Special stock is indeed reserved for specific purposes, which means it can include items such as consignment stock, project stock, or stock related to a specific customer or third party. This reservation allows businesses to manage their inventory more effectively based on different operational needs or external agreements.

In contrast, unrestricted stock represents inventory that is generally available for use and does not have any specific restrictions attached to it. As such, it can be utilized for fulfilling customer orders, production, or any other standard operations without the limitations associated with special stock. This fundamental distinction is essential for managing and optimizing stock levels in various business contexts.