FAQs answered for you.

Check digit errors occur when the last digit of a GTIN or SSCC doesn't match the calculated value:

1. Use the GS1 Modulo 10 algorithm
2. Recalculate the check digit
3. Compare with the actual last digit
4. Correct the barcode or data entry

Use our Barcode Decoder to validate check digits.

A parent-child mismatch occurs when aggregation data is inconsistent:

• Child already in another parent
• Parent doesn't exist
• Unpacking before packing was reported

Solution: Ensure proper event sequencing and aggregation management.

When EPCIS events fail:

1. Check error response from portal
2. Validate XML/JSON syntax
3. Verify all identifiers (GTIN, GLN, SSCC)
4. Ensure master data is registered
5. Check business rules compliance
6. Retry after fixing issues

A product not found error means the GTIN is not registered in the portal master data. Solution:

1. Verify GTIN format and check digit
2. Register product master data first
3. Wait for approval before sending events

Master data is foundational reference data required before sending events:

• Product master: GTIN, description, NDC
• Location master: GLN, address, type
• Trading partner: Company information

Master data must be registered before transactional events.

Common reasons for barcode read failures:

• Poor print quality (low contrast, defects)
• Wrong scanner type (laser vs imager)
• Scanning angle or distance issues
• Damaged or dirty barcode
• Inadequate lighting

Use a barcode verifier to check quality.

A location not found error means the GLN is not registered. Solution:

1. Verify GLN format and check digit
2. Register location master data
3. Ensure GLN is approved before use

Barcode verification is the process of grading barcode quality using ISO standards. Verification checks:

• Symbol contrast
• Modulation
• Decodability
• Defects

Grades range from A (best) to F (fail). Grade C or better is typically required.

A schema validation error means the EPCIS message doesn't match expected format:

• Invalid XML/JSON structure
• Missing required elements
• Incorrect data types

Use an EPCIS validator to check message format before submission.

API (Application Programming Interface) enables system-to-system communication. In track and trace:

• Submit EPCIS events to portals
• Query product status
• Retrieve master data

REST and SOAP APIs are common.

Serial number validation involves:

1. Format validation: Check length and character set
2. Check digit validation: Verify GTIN check digit using Modulo 10
3. Uniqueness check: Ensure no duplicates exist
4. Database lookup: Verify against regulatory portal

Use our Barcode Decoder tool to validate barcodes.

A sandbox environment is a testing system that mimics production without affecting real data. Use it to:

• Test EPCIS message format
• Validate integration
• Train users
• Debug issues

Always test thoroughly in sandbox before production.

Disaggregation is the reverse of aggregation - breaking parent-child relationships:

• Unpacking cases from pallets
• Unpacking units from cases
• Reported with AggregationEvent action DELETE

Required when products are repackaged or split.

GS1 DataMatrix is a 2D barcode format used for pharmaceutical serialization. It can encode the GTIN, serial number, batch/lot number, and expiry date in a small space.

DataMatrix barcodes are required on pharmaceutical packaging in most regulated markets.

Learn about DataMatrix requirements

DataMatrix size depends on the application:

• X-dimension: Minimum 0.254mm recommended
• Module size: Based on scanning distance
• Overall size: Varies with encoded data

Follow GS1 General Specifications for exact requirements.

For pharmaceutical serialization:

• Unit level: GS1 DataMatrix 2D barcode
• Case level: GS1-128 linear barcode or GS1 DataMatrix
• Pallet level: GS1-128 linear barcode

The barcode must encode: GTIN (AI 01), Serial (AI 21), Batch (AI 10), and Expiry (AI 17).

Decommissioning removes a serial from active status:

1. Send ObjectEvent with action DELETE
2. Set appropriate disposition (destroyed, sample, etc.)
3. Include reason code if required

Decommissioned serials cannot be used for further transactions.

Common authentication methods:

• OAuth 2.0: Token-based authentication
• Certificate-based: Digital certificates
• API Keys: Unique access keys
• Username/Password: Basic authentication

Check specific portal documentation for requirements.

For product returns:

1. Receive products with receiving event
2. Verify serial numbers against expected data
3. Update disposition (returned, sellable, destroyed)
4. Report appropriate events to portal

Returns workflow depends on country regulations.

A line-level system manages serialization on the production line:

• Serial number assignment
• Barcode printing
• Verification and inspection
• Aggregation at packaging

It interfaces with enterprise systems for data exchange.