Coding machinery UK
Date and batch coding guide
Plan date codes, batch numbers, lot marks, serial numbers, barcodes and QR codes before selecting coding machinery.
Traceability starts with the print specification
Date and batch coding is not just a printer purchase. It affects product traceability, pack presentation, barcode readability and operator workflow.
- Confirm the exact date format and whether time, shift or line number is needed.
- Define batch lot format and any automatic serial number requirement.
- Check barcode and QR code size, contrast and verifier requirements.
- Allow for operator edits, password protection and changeover controls where required.
Typical print content
Dateuse-by, best-before and production dates
Batchlot codes and shift information
Codebarcodes, QR codes and DataMatrix
Brandlogos, graphics and nutrition tables where supported