Why barcode verification is the key to your success

In today’s interconnected world of commerce and logistics, data is the fuel that powers supply chains. However, most of this data enters the system through one narrow gateway: the barcode. If this gateway is damaged or poorly ‘built’, the whole process grinds to a halt.

To keep your operations running smoothly, it’s not enough to just print and scan codes. You need to verify them.

Scanning vs. Verification: do you know the difference?

Many companies rely on the fact that if a code “beeps” on their handheld scanner in the warehouse, all is well. However, this is a common misconception.

  • Scanning (Reading): tells you only that a particular scanner was able to read the code at a given time and under given conditions.
  • Verification: is the process of measuring the quality of the code according to international standards (ISO/IEC). The verifier not only checks the data, but also the contrast, edge sharpness, quiet zones and geometric accuracy.

Logistics motto: Just because a code is read by your scanner in the warehouse doesn’t mean it’s read by your customer’s high-speed sorter on the other side of the world.

Use of verification by industry:

” Automotive

Direct Part Marking (DPM) inspection of parts and components to ensure full traceability and quality assurance (VDA 5510).

” Logistics and trade:

Process optimization through reliable code readability throughout the supply chain process (ISO 15394, GS1 General Specifications, Freight Forwarder Transport Requirements, VDA 4994, Odette Global Transport Label).

” Food industry

Ensuring the legibility of codes on food packaging in accordance with safety and quality standards (GS1 General Specification, traceability, etc.). A new feature is the control of the GS1 Digital Link data structure on food packaging.

” Transport industry

Ensuring barcodes and Data Matrix codes on packaging are readable to ensure seamless logistics (ISO/IEC 15394) and product traceability (ISO/IEC 22742, GS1 General Specifications).

“Pharmaceutical industry

Verification of codes on the packaging of medicines to comply with legislation and prevent counterfeiting (EU Delegated Regulation 2016/161, US DSCSA, etc.).

” Medical devices

Control of UDI codes based on legal requirements (EU 2017/745, US UDI laws) and based on IMDRF international specifications. Checking whether the product number (UDI-DI) exists in the GUDID database. GS1, HICBCC and IFA issuing entities are supported.

Barcode verification is not just “the next step in the process”. It’s insurance for your efficiency and reputation. In a business where seconds and accuracy are crucial, a correctly interpreted code is essential to keep your business and logistics operations running without stumbling.

Your investment in code quality will be returned to you in the form of smooth processes,

satisfied partners and minimal losses.

At BARTECH SLOVAKIA we will be happy to help you answer your questions. You can contact us at obchod@bartech.sk or via the web Contact Form.