R
Off topic, but why does it surprise you that distributors are not scanning bar codes for recording product movements? There is no requirement that barcodes be used (I can see a benefit, but no requirement)
As a manufacturer we don't print barcodes onto our products!
[rant]
As a distributor I find the fact that different manufacturers use different barcodes is absolutely infuriating....Why can't the industry come up with a standard that EVERYONE uses....if I walked to our warehouse now I would be hard pushed to find two manufacturers using the same system: datamatrix, EAN-13, code 128, some are GS1 compliant, some are not; some contain useful information, some do not....How, as a distributor, am I supposed to set up an effective system when there is so much variation?[/rant]
As a manufacturer we don't print barcodes onto our products!
[rant]
As a distributor I find the fact that different manufacturers use different barcodes is absolutely infuriating....Why can't the industry come up with a standard that EVERYONE uses....if I walked to our warehouse now I would be hard pushed to find two manufacturers using the same system: datamatrix, EAN-13, code 128, some are GS1 compliant, some are not; some contain useful information, some do not....How, as a distributor, am I supposed to set up an effective system when there is so much variation?[/rant]
You are obviously aware of the potential for time saving and error avoidance that accompanies the introduction of Bar Codes for recording inventory movement. As a manufacturer don't overlook the FDA plans for a Unique Device Identification System.
Clearly the use of private data structures by your suppliers is no help to you.
However a distributor's system obviously needs to cope not only with the symbologies that you list, but several others. You also need software that recognises the data structures used by all your suppliers. If they stick to the standards you have all have much to gain.
All the European hospitals that I have visited (and the 3 in China) are scanning Bar Codes to control product movement. All my clients apply labels in compliance with either HIBCC or GS1 standards.:truce: