
Track and Trace is the ability to follow every single product unit throughout the entire supply chain, from raw material through production, warehousing, and distribution, all the way to the point of sale or the end consumer. A complete system integrates coding by marking each unit with a unique identifier, data capture through barcode readers, RFID, and machine vision, data transfer via ERP, MES, and WMS, and reporting. It is a regulatory requirement in pharmaceuticals (FMD), tobacco (EU-CEG), and medical devices (MDR), and is rapidly spreading to other sectors. Explore UDI solutions and QR Code for the Digital Product Passport.

An industrial Track and Trace system is structured into four levels. Level 1 covers the physical marking of the product, Level 2 the control of the line and marking systems, Level 3 is the MES system for aggregating and managing production events, and Level 4 is the ERP for order and inventory management. The aggregation of serial codes from a single unit to multi-packs, boxes, and pallets is a critical process that requires synchronized and reliable systems. Real-time reporting and data historization ensure retroactive traceability in case of recalls or regulatory inspections. Learn more about specialist consulting to design your traceability system.
