Optimize GS1 Barcode Scanning for Accurate GTIN Matching in Healthcare, Logistics, and Retail

GS1 barcodes are essential for inventory accuracy, product verification, and efficient supply chain operations. By encoding data in Application Identifiers (AIs) like GTIN (Global Trade Item Number), batch numbers, and expiry dates, GS1 barcodes provide a standardized format crucial to various industries.

The GTIN is a unique identifier central to product verification across sectors. With CodeREADr, you can scan, parse, and verify GTINs in GS1 barcodes to ensure items align with inventory expectations, supporting accuracy from warehouses to retail shelves.

In this guide, we’ll explain how CodeREADr simplifies GS1 barcode scanning, GTIN parsing, and product verification through a two-step comparison process.

A GS1 barcode is a globally standardized format used in healthcare, logistics, retail, and beyond. This barcode format encodes structured data readable by scanners, with the GTIN serving as a unique identifier for each product. GTINs in GS1-128 or GS1 DataMatrix barcodes facilitate inventory management, anti-counterfeiting, and efficient product tracking.

CodeREADr enhances these operations by enabling precise GTIN parsing and comparison, ensuring that GTINs in GS1 barcodes.

Using CodeREADr to scan and parse GS1 barcodes allows businesses to focus on the most critical information: the GTIN. Here’s how CodeREADr streamlines the process in a few simple steps.

Step 1: Set Up Parsing Rules for GS1 Barcode Scanning

With CodeREADr, creating a parsing rule to isolate the GTIN is straightforward:

1. Configure Parsing Rules—The CodeREADr app allows you to set up parsing rules to recognize GS1 barcodes and focus on the GTIN field identified by the Application Identifier (AI) (01). The app then extracts the GTIN while ignoring other details like batch numbers or expiration dates, which may not be relevant for specific workflows. Note: If the matching item’s barcode has the 8-digit, 12-digit, or 13-digit UPC code printed on it, the 14-digit GTIN encoded in the GS1 barcode must be parsed accordingly.
2. Initial Scan – Use CodeREADr for the first scan on an outer carton or master label, capturing and saving the GTIN for immediate use. This streamlined approach minimizes manual input and human error.
3. Automation for Efficiency – CodeREADr’s automated parsing saves time in high-volume environments such as warehouses and retail stores, where efficiency is key to meeting operational demands.

Step 2: Verifying the GTIN with Product-Level Scanning

Once the GTIN is isolated, CodeREADr can verify that the product’s GTIN matches its packaging or label. This two-step process helps prevent inventory errors.

1. Immediate GTIN Comparison – After the initial scan, use CodeREADr to scan the individual item’s GTIN. The app automatically compares the GTINs, providing instant feedback if there’s a mismatch.
2. Configurable Alerts for Accuracy – CodeREADr’s alerts notify users if there’s a discrepancy, signaling potential issues like incorrect items or packaging errors. This is especially valuable in bulk shipments, where verifying product integrity before distribution is crucial.

Tracking and Logging for Compliance – CodeREADr logs each scan and comparison result, creating a detailed audit trail. This feature supports regulatory compliance, quality control, and inventory traceability.

CodeREADr’s GS1 barcode parsing and GTIN verification capabilities offer significant value across various industries:

1. Healthcare – GTIN verification helps prevent medication errors by ensuring that outer packaging matches individual units. CodeREADr supports compliance with regulatory requirements, like the U.S. FDA’s DSCSA, while enhancing patient safety.
2. Logistics and Warehousing – GTIN verification reduces mispicks and returns by matching shipment labels with individual items. CodeREADr’s accuracy in GTIN matching streamlines supply chain processes, optimizing operations and minimizing discrepancies.
3. Retail – For retailers, GTIN verification ensures that goods received align with purchase orders, supporting accurate inventory management and reducing potential discrepancies during stocking and sales.

Utilizing CodeREADr for GS1 barcode scanning and GTIN verification brings several advantages to operations:

• Enhanced Data Accuracy – By isolating GTINs, CodeREADr minimizes the risk of human error and ensures that only relevant data is processed.
• Improved Operational Efficiency – Automated parsing and GTIN comparison accelerate workflows, saving time in high-volume settings like warehouses and retail outlets.
• Compliance and Traceability – CodeREADr logs each scan, providing a reliable audit trail for regulatory compliance, quality assurance, and inventory tracking.

With CodeREADr, GS1 barcode scanning and GTIN verification have become reliable and efficient processes. By enabling precise parsing and comparing of GTINs, CodeREADr helps ensure product accuracy, maintain regulatory compliance, and support seamless operations across healthcare, logistics, and retail.

For organizations looking to enhance inventory accuracy, reduce errors, and optimize workflows, CodeREADr’s GS1 barcode scanning solution offers an effective tool for managing and verifying products at every stage of the supply chain.