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Frequently Asked - Find answers to common questions about Track & Trace
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GS1 1
AI 240 encodes an additional product identification, often used for manufacturer's internal item number or customer-specific product code. It allows up to 30 alphanumeric characters.
Implementation 10
Typical implementation timeline:
- Planning: 2-3 months
- Equipment installation: 3-6 months
- Testing and validation: 2-3 months
- Pilot production: 1-2 months
Total: 6-12 months depending on scope.
Common challenges include:
- Line speed impact
- Print quality consistency
- System integration complexity
- Data management
- Staff training
- Multi-market compliance
A pilot is a limited production run:
- Test serialization on selected products
- Validate equipment and processes
- Train operators
- Identify issues before full rollout
Key vendor selection criteria:
- Experience in pharma industry
- Integration capabilities
- Regulatory expertise for target markets
- Support and maintenance
- Scalability
Line qualification validates packaging line:
- IQ: Installation Qualification
- OQ: Operational Qualification
- PQ: Performance Qualification
Required for GMP compliance.
Training requirements:
- Operators: Line equipment, scanning
- IT: System administration, integration
- Quality: Compliance, documentation
- Management: Reporting, oversight
Change management handles system modifications:
- Document all changes
- Impact assessment
- Testing and validation
- Regulatory notification if required
ROI from serialization includes:
- Reduced counterfeiting losses
- Improved supply chain visibility
- Better recall management
- Enhanced brand protection
- Regulatory compliance (avoiding penalties)
SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) documents processes:
- Serialization workflow
- Exception handling
- System operations
- Compliance requirements
Required for GMP.
CMO (Contract Manufacturing) transfer considerations:
- Serial number pool management
- System access and credentials
- Training for CMO staff
- Integration with CMO systems
Platform 3
Our EPCIS Analyzer tool helps you:
- Upload your EPCIS XML or JSON file
- View a summary of all events
- Validate against country-specific requirements
- Identify errors and get fix recommendations
Simply drag and drop your file or paste EPCIS content to get started.
Use our Barcode Decoder tool:
- Enter the barcode data string (e.g., from a scanner)
- The tool will parse and display all encoded data
- View GTIN, serial number, batch, expiry, and other fields
- Validate the check digit automatically
Visit our Regulation Hub for comprehensive information on:
- Country profiles and requirements
- Authority contacts and portal links
- Onboarding guides and timelines
- Technical specifications
Select a country to view detailed regulatory information.
Technical 6
TATMEEN integration steps:
- Register your company on the portal
- Obtain API credentials
- Implement EPCIS message generation
- Configure secure connection (HTTPS)
- Test in sandbox environment
- Go live after certification
Common reasons for EPCIS file rejection:
- Schema validation errors: Check XML/JSON syntax
- Invalid identifiers: Verify check digits
- Missing required fields: Ensure all mandatory elements are present
- Unregistered products/locations: Register master data first
Use our EPCIS Analyzer to identify specific issues.
RSD integration steps:
- Register with SFDA
- Obtain RSD portal access
- Implement EPCIS capture interface
- Configure API authentication
- Complete testing phase
- Receive production approval
A duplicate serial number error occurs when the same serial is used twice. Causes:
- System generating non-unique serials
- Re-using previously commissioned serials
- Data synchronization issues
Solution: Implement proper serial number management and validation.
To print GS1 DataMatrix barcodes:
- Use a printer capable of 300+ DPI resolution
- Ensure proper quiet zones around the barcode
- Follow GS1 size recommendations (minimum X-dimension)
- Verify print quality with a barcode verifier
Consider using Continuous Ink Jet (CIJ), Thermal Inkjet (TIJ), or laser marking.
The typical EPCIS events required for pharmaceutical track and trace are:
- ObjectEvent (Commissioning): Serial number assignment
- AggregationEvent: Packing/unpacking
- ObjectEvent (Shipping): Products leaving a location
- ObjectEvent (Receiving): Products arriving at a location
- ObjectEvent (Dispensing): Products given to patients
Specific requirements vary by country.