Purchasing glossary
NCNR meaning: Non-Cancelable, Non-Returnable
Direct answer
NCNR means non-cancelable, non-returnable. In purchasing, it signals that once the applicable order is accepted under NCNR terms, the buyer may lose normal rights to cancel, reschedule, or return the material under the seller’s stated conditions.
Why NCNR matters more when the part is expensive, constrained, or lifecycle-sensitive
NCNR shifts more purchasing risk onto the buyer. Before approval, verify the exact ordering code, quantity, price, source, packaging, date-code requirements, delivery basis, and the seller’s cancellation/return language. A rushed NCNR approval can be expensive if the requirement changes or the wrong ordering code was used.
Analog Devices’ current sales terms are one primary-source example: its terms state that orders for NCNR products are not accepted for cancellation or rescheduling. Seller-specific terms control the actual transaction, so read the terms attached to the quote or order rather than assuming every supplier uses identical rules.
Primary source: Analog Devices terms and conditions ↗Before approving an NCNR buy
Remove the avoidable uncertainty first.
- ✓ Confirm the complete manufacturer part number
- ✓ Confirm the exact quantity and packaging
- ✓ Verify price and quote validity
- ✓ State required-by date and delivery basis
- ✓ State date-code / traceability requirements
- ✓ Confirm whether alternates are permitted
- ✓ Read the seller’s cancellation and return language
- ✓ Get unresolved sourcing conditions in writing
About to approve an NCNR component?
Get the sourcing conditions in writing before you lock the decision.
Send the exact MPN and quantity. Max gives complete RFQs a written sourcing response within 47 hours and states supportable commercial conditions, source context, and unresolved requirements before an order proceeds.
NCNR FAQ
Does NCNR always mean absolutely no remedy is possible?
The actual contract and seller terms control. NCNR generally signals significant cancellation/return restrictions, but the precise rights and exceptions must be read from the applicable terms.
Why do electronic component suppliers use NCNR terms?
They are often used when material is specially committed, difficult to remarket, purchased against a specific customer requirement, or otherwise carries unusual commercial risk. The reason and exact restriction can vary by seller and transaction.
What should procurement put in an NCNR approval?
At minimum: exact MPN, manufacturer, quantity, unit/extended price, required date, packaging, source restrictions, documentation requirements, quote validity, and the specific NCNR language being accepted.