Understanding EPCIS Event Types
EPCIS defines four distinct event types, each designed to capture specific types of supply chain observations. Understanding when and how to use each type is crucial for proper track and trace implementation.
1. ObjectEvent
The most common event type, ObjectEvent records observations about one or more objects (products) at a point in time.
Common Uses:
Key Fields:
eventTime: When the event occurred
eventTimeZoneOffset: Timezone of the event
epcList: List of EPCs (e.g., SGTINs) involved
action: OBSERVE, ADD, or DELETE
bizStep: Business step (e.g., commissioning, shipping)
disposition: State of objects (e.g., active, destroyed)
readPoint: Where the observation was made
bizLocation: Business location
2. AggregationEvent
Records the association or disassociation of objects - typically when items are packed into cases or cases onto pallets.
Common Uses:
Key Fields:
parentID: The container (SSCC of case/pallet)
childEPCs: The contained items (SGTINs or SSCCs)
action: ADD (pack), DELETE (unpack), or OBSERVE
bizStep: Usually 'packing' or 'unpacking'
3. TransactionEvent
Associates or disassociates objects with business transactions like purchase orders or invoices.
Common Uses:
Key Fields:
bizTransactionList: List of business transactions
epcList: Products associated with the transaction
action: ADD, DELETE, or OBSERVE
4. TransformationEvent
Records when input objects are transformed into output objects - less common in pharmaceutical distribution but important for manufacturing.
Common Uses:
Key Fields:
inputEPCList: Products consumed
outputEPCList: Products created
transformationID: Links related transformations
Choosing the Right Event Type