Enhanced Track and Trace with Barcode Scanning

The Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) mandates comprehensive logistical requirements that extend beyond traditional supply chain nodes. This regulation emphasizes the necessity for a robust track and trace system using barcode scanning to encompass even the lesser-regarded transfer points in supply chain operations, often referred to as the ‘long tail’.

Under Article 15 of the TPD, every tobacco product’s ‘unit packet’ must feature a unique identifier that provides critical details like the location and date of manufacture, intended final destination, and more. By employing barcode scanning technology, the movement of these packets is meticulously tracked at every point in the supply chain—from production to their initial point of sale to consumers.
This traceability framework enables EU public authorities to verify the legality of tobacco products and identify any potential diversions throughout their distribution.

Understanding what ‘first retail outlet’ means is key to recognizing the extensive number of origin and destination points involved in handling tracked unit packets or ‘aggregated packaging’. Unlike typical expectations, the barcode scanning process in asset tracking occurs at multiple critical stages:

• 1st Scan: Manufacturer dispatches goods.
• 2nd Scan: Importer receives the shipment.
• 3rd Scan: Goods are sent from the importer.
• 4th Scan: Regional wholesaler’s receipt.
• 5th Scan: Shipment from the regional wholesaler.
• 6th Scan: First retail outlet receives the goods.

This process highlights the significant role of numerous wholesalers and logistics providers needed to transport the packets to their retail destinations.

With thousands of logistics firms across the EU, not all are involved in tobacco distribution, but those that are must rigorously scan the ‘aggregated packaging’ barcode at each transfer until the products reach their retail endpoints. This level of tracking is vital for maintaining clear records of both delivery and receipt at each phase, addressing liability concerns and ensuring compliance.

For over a decade, CodeREADr has been at the forefront of addressing complex, rule-based data capture challenges through its sophisticated web service. As a versatile SaaS platform designed for IT departments, CodeREADr offers customizable app configurations and workflow definitions to streamline targeted data capture.

The platform is compatible with various devices, including those running iOS & Android OS, and utilizes the built-in camera for scanning. CodeREADr’s SD PRO scan engine adeptly reads over 40 types of barcodes, ensuring immediate and accurate data capture.
IT administrators benefit from remote control capabilities, allowing configurations to be seamlessly downloaded via cloud services upon user authentication. Scanning data can be uploaded to CodeREADr’s AWS servers or to a preferred server, providing flexibility in data management.

Additionally, CodeREADr supports real-time data validation and, in scenarios lacking network connectivity, ensures immediate offline synchronization of validated data.

In summary, CodeREADr’s track and trace technology with barcode scanning offers a scalable solution for managing asset tracking across extensive networks, ensuring compliance and efficient supply chain management. Start optimizing your supply chain today with subscription plans ranging from just $1.99 to $14.99 per month per device.