# Manage a tool crib

Assign a slot number to a tool loaded in a machine, so it matches the NC program's T-codes.

Source: https://support.toolingmetrics.com/en/production/guides/manage-tool-crib/
Updated: 2026-10-29

**Prerequisites:** A machine is configured with at least one Component (head, turret, or gang). A tool has been transferred to the machine.

**Required permission:** Production → Machines — User or above. Anyone who can open the machine can assign pocket numbers; a User sees only the machines they created.

## View the machine's tool crib

1. In the sidebar, click **Production → Machines** and open the machine.
1. Click the **Tool Crib** tab. Every tool currently at the machine appears here — a tool only shows up once it's actually been picked or transferred there, so there's nothing to configure ahead of time.

![Haas VF-1 Tool Crib table showing tool ID, name, pocket number, remaining life, forecasted quantity, on-hand quantity, and cost.](https://support.toolingmetrics.com/guides/tool-crib-eng.webp)

*Fig. 1: Tool Crib tab — current columns include tool ID, name, pocket number, remaining life, forecasted and on-hand quantities, and cost.*

## Assign a pocket number

1. Click the **Pocket No.** next to any tool in the list (blank if unassigned).
1. In the **Assign Slot Number** dialog, select the **Machine Component** — the head, turret, or gang the slot belongs to — and enter the **Pocket No.**
1. Click **Update**.

![Assign Slot Number dialog with Head selected as the machine component and slot number 1.](https://support.toolingmetrics.com/guides/tool-pocket-eng.webp)

*Fig. 2: Assigning a pocket number — pick the component, then the slot position within it.*

## Notes

- The pocket number is what the T-code in NC programs refers to (e.g., slot 3 = T03).
- A component's number of slots is fixed when it's configured on the machine — see [Machines Reference](https://support.toolingmetrics.com/en/production/reference/machines/). Tooling Metrics rejects a pocket number that's already taken on that component, or beyond its configured slot count.
- Use [Renumber tools for an NC program](https://support.toolingmetrics.com/en/production/guides/renumber-tools-for-nc-program/) to reconcile pocket numbers with a job's T-codes before running it.
- A tool reaches the machine via a Pick List or a Tool Transfer, and its slot assignment is cleared automatically when a Return List moves it back off the machine — see [Prepare tools for a job](https://support.toolingmetrics.com/en/production/guides/prepare-tools/) and [Process a return list](https://support.toolingmetrics.com/en/production/guides/process-return-list/).